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:
moderate low high Radioactive waste processors moderate low moderate Group 3 Intermediate to Low Inventory, Long Half-Life Uranium mills moderate moderate moderate Research and test reactors moderate moderate high Laboratory, research facility, and academic and broad-scope facility moderate moderate moderate Group 4 Low Inventory, Half-Life Generally Not Long Medical use of radioactive material low* low low* Industrial use of radioactive material low low low, dependent on material* Medical or industrial use of sealed sources low low low Legend: high - highest likelihood of using the measures in this guide moderate - moderate likelihood of using the measures in this guide low - low likelihood of using the measures in this guide * - emphasis on inventory control RG 4.21, Page 6 C. REGULATORY POSITION 1. Minimizing Facility Contamination 1.1 General Statement In general, an applicant should minimize radioactive contamination of the facility by using structure, system, and component (SSC) designs and operational procedures that limit leakage and/or control the spread of contamination. The design and operational procedures should provide for the early detection of leaks thus allowing prompt assessment to support a timely and appropriate response. Applicants should note that 10 CFR 20.1406 requires that contamination be minimized “…to the extent practicable...” This implies that other competing concerns such as the implication to safety systems and the overall cost should be considered. Thus the minimization of facility contamination must be considered in the context of overall facility safety. 1.2 Minimization of Leaks and Spills and Provision of Containment Through design, worker practices, preventive maintenance, and effective operating procedures, applicants covered by 10 CFR 20.1406 should strive to minimize leaks and spills, provide containment in areas where such events might occur, and provide for detection that supports timely assessment and appropriate