Section 236.501. Scope and considerations

Determination of the classification of waste involves the following considerations:

(1) Consideration shall be given to the concentration of long-lived radionuclides—and their short-lived precursors—whose potential hazard will persist long after precautions such as the active institutional control period and improved waste form have ceased to be effective. These precautions delay the time when long-lived radionuclides could cause exposures. The magnitude of the potential dose is limited by the concentration and availability of the radionuclides at the time of exposure.

(2) Consideration shall be given to the concentration of shorter-lived radionuclides for which requirements on institutional controls, waste form and disposal methods are effective.