Toxic hazards of underground excavation

Technical Report · Wed Sep 01 04:00:00 EDT 1982

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/6087889· OSTI ID:6087889

Smith, R; Chitnis, V; Damasian, M; Lemm, M; Popplesdorf, N; Ryan, T; Saban, C; Cohen, J; Smith, C; Ciminesi, F

Inadvertent intrusion into natural or man-made toxic or hazardous material deposits as a consequence of activities such as mining, excavation or tunnelling has resulted in numerous deaths and injuries in this country. This study is a preliminary investigation to identify and document instances of such fatal or injurious intrusion. An objective is to provide useful insights and information related to potential hazards due to future intrusion into underground radioactive-waste-disposal facilities. The methodology used in this study includes literature review and correspondence with appropriate government agencies and organizations. Key categories of intrusion hazards are asphyxiation, methane, hydrogen sulfide, silica and asbestos, naturally occurring radionuclides, and various mine or waste dump related hazards.

• Research Organization: Michigan Univ., Ann Arbor (USA). School of Public Health; Science Applications, Inc., Pleasanton, CA (USA)
• DOE Contract Number: W-7405-ENG-48
• OSTI ID: 6087889
• Report Number(s): UCRL-15539; ON: DE83014442
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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