CNSC invites the public to comment on new regulatory document for the siting process of a deep geological repository facility

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) is asking the public to provide comments on a new draft regulatory document, REGDOC-1.2.1, Guidance on Deep Geological Repository Site Characterization by December 17, 2018. The comments submitted, including names and affiliations, will be made public.

REGDOC-1.2.1 provides guidance on the site characterization of a deep geological repository facility for radioactive waste. It involves technical site investigations to increase the knowledge about a particular site. Site characterization begins at the earliest stage of the investigation of a site.

The site characterization stage involves extensive field work and laboratory study, to gather site-specific data on a range of site conditions, including a site’s geology, geochemistry and geomechanical suitability. Early-stage site characterization activities would include scientific studies and desktop data compilation work, and include activities such as geophysical surveys and borehole drilling.

The document does not apply to surface and near-surface waste management facilities, including waste from uranium mines and mills.

About a deep geological repository

A deep geological repository is an engineered facility where radioactive waste is emplaced in a deep, stable geological formation (usually several hundred metres or more below the surface) designed to isolate and contain radioactive waste to provide the long-term isolation of nuclear substances from the biosphere. After closure there is no intention to retrieve or transfer the radioactive waste.

About the CNSC

The CNSC regulates the use of nuclear energy and materials to protect health, safety, security and the environment; to implement Canada’s international commitments on the peaceful use of nuclear energy; and to disseminate objective scientific, technical and regulatory information to the public.