Low-level radioactive wastes managements in universities, institutes and hospitals

Japan Radioisotope Association, which is distributing radioisotopes, also is collecting radioactive wastes from hospitals and other establishments using radioisotopes across the country. These wastes are then transferred to Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute for treatment. However, the capacity of JAERI is currently insufficient for the quantities transferred from JRA. A main cause for such difficulty as above is the increase in medical isotopes, i.e. radiopharmaceuticals, which are used in vivo and in vitro. From the RI consumptions thus far, the future demands and waste quantities are estimated for the purpose of establishing an overall joint treatment system. The following matters are described; the present situation of waste management in JRA and JAERI; current transitional phase; and radiopharmaceutical wastes (radiopharmaceuticals, their consumptions and future demands, and resultant waste RIs). (J.P.N.)