Discharges from UKAEA sites

The paper concerns the scientific and regulatory framework surrounding the disposal of radioactive waste from UKAEA sites. A description is given of the authorisation of discharges, site authorisation, the amount of radioactivity discharged by a particular route, and the UK approach to controlling radiation exposure. Discharges from Dounreay, Winfrith and Harwell are discussed. Data are given on liquid discharges and discharges to the atmosphere from both Winfrith and Harwell, and liquid discharges from Dounreay, over the period 1981-6. Discharges from Windscale, Risley and Culcheth are briefly outlined. Radiation doses from authority discharges are described, and estimates of the doses to the critical groups due to radioactive discharges from Dounreay, Winfrith and Harwell are presented. Finally future changes in authorisation are set out. (U.K.)