Document: NRC Regulatory Guide
Document ID: 05969442-49ea-4f4a-a9e2-de3a14628b5e
Document Type: regulatory_guide
Title: Minimization of Contamination and Radioactive Waste Generation:  Life-Cycle Planning - HISTORY 07/2013 – Periodic Review of Revision 0 – No issues identified
Source: NRC Regulatory Guide Division 4
Source URL: https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML0805/ML080500187.pdf
Revision Date: 2023-06
Chapter: 
Section ID: RG-4.21
CFR Part: 
CFR Title: 

Content:
ing are kept current with the latest versions of operational programs and procedures. Operational programs and procedures should be subjected to review and evaluation following events that resulted in leaks and spills of radioactive materials. As part of the analysis, the evaluation should determine (1) whether procedures, equipment, and/or operator errors contributed to the event and releases, and (2) identify immediate and long-term corrective actions. The results of such lessons learned should then be assessed for their broader applicability to similar or related facility operations, and then incorporated as needed into revised programs and procedures. 2. Minimizing Contamination of the Environment 2.1 Development of a Conceptual Site Model Development In general, system design features and operational procedures that prevent and/or control releases within the facility also contribute to minimizing contamination of the environment. For systems that directly interface with the environment, the first indication of a leak may be detection in an environmental monitoring system. To control and mitigate such events, it is prudent to have a comprehensive understanding of the interface with environmental systems and the features that will control the movement of contamination in the environment. A conceptual site model based on site characterization RG 4.21, Page 8 and facility design and construction can be a significant tool in (1) understanding the site, (2) planning and implementing a contaminant monitoring program, and (3) planning and implementing mitigative actions. Therefore, the site should be characterized before construction to assess the impact that the facility will have on the site hydrogeology following construction. In addition to the conceptual site model, attention should be given to identifying the potential release mechanisms, release scenarios, and possible location of contaminant releases. 2.2 Provision for Early Detection of Leakage and Contaminant