Selecting sites for nuclear centres

The IAEA symposium held in Bombay from 11 to 15 March considered the main factors which have to be taken into account in choosing a site for a nuclear centre. The most obvious of these is the problem of airborne radioactivity that may be released in the course of the normal operation of a nuclear facility or as a result of a nuclear accident. Ground considerations, that are the suitability of the soil for nuclear construction as well as for the disposal of radioactive waste, constitute another important factor. The type of reactor installed, especially the extent and nature of reactor containment, has also a bearing on the suitability of a site. In addition, there are various engineering and administrative factors that may influence the choice of site for a nuclear facility. After examining these factors, the symposium discussed certain general criteria which could be applied in dealing with the relevant factors in a specific case. Reports have been presented on the experience already gained in the selection of sites for nuclear research centres and power stations.