Author: International Atomic Energy Agency

Publisher: IAEA

Published: 2006

Total Pages: 260

ISBN-13:

The IAEA attaches great importance to the dissemination of information that can assist Member States with the development, implementation, maintenance and continuous improvement of systems, programs, and activities that support the management of the legacies of past practices and accidents. In response to this, the IAEA has initiated a comprehensive program of work covering all aspects of environmental remediation. Mixed radioactive and hazardous substances contamination poses a particular challenge because of the combination of types of hazards and potential exposures. While radionuclides and toxic (heavy) metals pose similar and mostly compatible challenges, organic contaminants often require different approaches that may not be compatible with the former. Additional complexity is introduced into the problem by a different and sometimes conflicting regulatory framework for radiological and non-radiological contamination, including the prescribed waste management routes. In consideration of the added complexities of remediating mixed contamination, the IAEA has determined that this subject sufficiently warrants the development of a specialized report for assisting Member States.