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Answer to Question #4956 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"Category: Decommissioning — Decommissioning and Decontamination Operations The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field: Q
If a nuclear power plant is shut down, are there any byproducts left behind that would still be considered radioactive? If so, how long would it take for the radioactive trace elements to disappear and create a "safe" environment at the location and the surrounding areas? In other words, will we still need an evacuation plan for a decommissioned site and, if so, for how long? A
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) regulates both the operation and the decommissioning of nuclear power plants in the United States. Once a power plant is shut down, the licensee (power utility) has a few options available for decommissioning. Most choose the DECON option, which involves the immediate decontamination and dismantlement of the facility and leads to license termination. Another option is termed SAFSTOR, which refers to the situation where the licensee delays decontamination and dismantlement for a period of years. This option is also followed by decontamination and dismantlement, and license termination at some point. A valuable source of information pertaining to decommissioning power reactors is available on the NRC Web site.
Once the license is terminated, there is no longer a hazard posed by the residual radioactivity associated with the nuclear reactor and, therefore, no need for an evacuation plan. Eric W. Abelquist, PhD, CHP
Answer posted on 14 November 2005. The information and material posted on this Web site is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Web site. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.
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