Key factors regarding low level waste and its transport will be outlined by ANSTO Acting Executive Director, Dr Ron Cameron, at the ARPANSA public forum on the safety of the proposed radioactive waste repository in South Australia in Adelaide today.
Dr Cameron said it was important for the public to know the facts and understand the issues regarding the generation, storage and transportation of low level radioactive waste.
“Low level radioactive waste is just that: it is waste material that emits low levels of radiation,” said Dr Cameron. “For example, if you stood two metres away from a truck full of low level waste for one hour without moving, you would receive less radiation than you would if you flew to Los Angeles and back.
“The recent NSW Government inquiry into low level waste supported ANSTO’s claims regarding the minimal risks associated with the transport of low level radioactive waste.”
Dr Cameron is an advocate of having a single repository for low level radioactive waste.
“Having a central repository reflects international best practice,” he said. “It is important that waste is contained and stored in a central area so it can be monitored by experts instead of being dotted around the country in places such as hospitals, universities and industrial plants.
“ANSTO’s monitoring of radioactive material is independently assessed on a regular basis and our staff are thoroughly trained to handle radioactive materials,” continued Dr Cameron.
“In fact, the NSW Government inquiry made mention of the thoroughness of our monitoring and record keeping systems of the radioactive waste located on our site.
“Also, our security exceeds international best practice, unlike some other locations. The proposed central store would have a high standard of security consistent with best practice.
“Although no one can say there is ‘no risk’ involved in doing anything in life, the storage and transport of low level waste has extremely low risk in terms of human health or environmental damage.”
ANSTO supplies only 30% of the radioactive waste generated in this country.
Dr Cameron has worked in the nuclear industry for over twenty years, is actively involved in the work of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and is an expert in radiation safety.