Development of environmental radiation standards for geologic disposal of high-level radioactive wastes

This report discusses the different technical issues that must be considered in developing an environmental standard for geologic disposal of high-level radioactive wastes. These issues include: (1) defining acceptable risk; (2) specifying acceptable risk in the standard; (3) formulating the standard so that reasonable demonstrations of compliance can be obtained; (4) applying the standard to protection of individuals or the population; (5) applying the standard to expected occurrences only or to unexpected processes as well; (6) determining a time limit for the standard; and (7) specifying conditions to be assumed for demonstrating compliance. It is concluded that many issues are not resolvable on technical grounds alone, but that an effective standard will allow flexibility and the exercise of subjective scientific judgments in reaching licensing decisions