Guidelines for establishing and implementing environmental action levels to control emissions from nuclear facilities

1.            Scope/objectives:

This Standard would include:

•             clarity of the objectives for environmental action levels and where they fit in the environmental protection framework for emission control;

•             consideration of process control and statistically based methodologies applicable for both nuclear substances and hazardous substances – it will not cover thermal effluent;

•             alternative methodologies for when a statistically based methodology cannot be used;

•             guidance on the implementation of environmental action levels at nuclear facilities; and

•             guidance on periodic review and adjustment of environmental action levels to account for changes in operations.

In developing the CSA N288.8 NS, the committee will

•             review the NSCA and associated regulations, including planned changes or those in progress, to help determine requirements for the draft standard;

•             consider relevant Canadian requirements, guidance, and experience on establishing environmental action levels; and

•             consider relevant international standards and guidance on establishing environmental action levels.

The standard will apply to nuclear facilities, including uranium mines and mills. The standard will be technology neutral.