Waste classification system deficiencies

Deficiencies in the Radioactive Waste Classification System. The classification system for radioactive waste in the United States summarized in Table 1.1 is based primarily on the earliest descriptions of different classes of waste that arises from chemical reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel and subsequent processing of nuclear materials that were developed beginning in the late 1950s. These wastes were considered to be the most important in regard to potential radiological impacts on workers. 

This Section develops NCRP s recommendations on the principles and framework for a comprehensive and risk-based hazardous waste classification system. Implementation of the system also is discussed. These recommendations focus on classification of waste that contains hazardous substances for purposes of permanent disposal. The proposed waste classification system was developed to address deficiencies in the existing waste classification systems discussed in Sections 2, 4 and 5. 

NCRP recognizes that if the waste classification system described in this Report is to gain acceptance, it must be broadly compatible with current approaches to management and disposal of hazardous wastes. However, NCRP believes that development of a new waste classification system to address deficiencies in the existing systems should not be constrained by provisions of current laws or regulations... 

As summarized below, however, the classification system that encompasses nuclear fuel-cycle and NARM waste also has exhibited a number of deficiencies that call into question its continued suitability. 

NCRP s recommendations on classification of hazardous wastes are intended to address deficiencies and inconsistencies in the separate systems for classification and disposal of radioactive and hazardous chemical wastes in the United States summarized previously. The most important of these include ... 

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