LLRW Management Challenges at a Large Research University
In the performance of its mission as a world-class teaching and research institution, the University of Michigan (U-M) generates a variety of Low Level Radioactive Waste (LLRW) streams. The management of these wastes (i.e. packaging, transportation, processing and disposal) has a direct impact on a large research university that other, conventional generators may not appreciate. The university is actually a small generator compared with the likes of utility companies and government agencies. Yet experience has shown that universities require unique service support for the management of a wide range, albeit smaller quantities of LLRW streams. Unlike larger LLRW generators with specialized cadres of employees dealing with LLRW issues, a research university is likely to have these same responsibilities handled by a small team of specialists requiring a variety of skill sets. The diversity of waste generated is reflective of the number and variety of waste generators on campus. With over 1500 medical research and teaching laboratories and a research reactor, the LLRW waste streams the U-M generates include significant volumes of solid, long- and short-lived waste as well as liquid mixed waste and non-hazardous aqueous waste. As a result of this diversity of waste streams, the U-M must meet compliance standards established by the NRC, EPA, DOT and the State of Michigan. Like other LLRW generators within the State of Michigan, the U-M was unable to ship LLRW for disposal from late 1991 through mid-1995 due to political restrictions imposed by the federal government relating to the state compact legislation. This resulted in a large quantity of LLRW and mixed waste shipped for processing and disposal beginning in mid-1996. The U-M, along with other small quantity generators must compete for access to the diminishing space remaining at the Barnwell Disposal Facility. The key to success in this area requires a combination of institutional long-range planning and having a knowledgeable broker working on your behalf.
- Research Organization:
- University of Michigan, (US)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- none (US)
- OSTI ID:
- 827595
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: Waste Management 2003 Symposium, Tucson, AZ (US), 02/23/2003--02/27/2003; Other Information: PBD: 25 Feb 2003
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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