Proposed Changes to EPA's Transuranic Waste Characterization Approval Process.

Joglekar, R. D. ; Feltcorn, E. M. ; Ortiz, A. M.

Technical Information Center Oak Ridge Tennessee

关键词: Transuranic wastes;    Radioactive wastes;    US EPA;    Alpha bearing wastes;    Flexibility;   

RP-ID  :  DE2004827063

学科分类：工程和技术（综合）

美国|英语

来源: National Technical Reports Library

【 摘 要 】

This paper describes the changes to the waste characterization (WC) approval process proposed in August 2002 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA or the Agency or we). EPA regulates the disposal of transuranic (TRU) waste at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) repository in Carlsbad, New Mexico. EPA regulations require that waste generator/storage sites seek EPA approval of WC processes used to characterize TRU waste destined for disposal at WIPP. The regulations also require that EPA verify, through site inspections, characterization of each waste stream or group of waste streams proposed for disposal at the WIPP. As part of verification, the Agency inspects equipment, procedures, and interviews personnel to determine if the processes used by a site can adequately characterize the waste in order to meet the waste acceptance criteria for WIPP. The paper discusses EPA's mandate, current regulations, inspection experience, and proposed changes. We expect that the proposed changes will provide equivalent or improved oversight.