Document: NRC Regulatory Guide
Document ID: a094549d-8685-4dad-b90f-c28c7d279a53
Document Type: regulatory_guide
Title: Geologic and Geotechnical Site Characterization Investigations for Nuclear Power Plants + HISTORY – HISTORY 08/2021 – DG-1392 , Proposed Revision 3 07/2014 – Periodic Review of Revision 2 – Reviewed with no issues identified 02/2001 – DG-1101 , Proposed Revision 2 (Rev. 3)
Source: NRC Regulatory Guide Division 1
Source URL: https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML2119/ML21194A176.pdf
Revision Date: 2023-05
Chapter: 
Section ID: RG-1.132
CFR Part: 
CFR Title: 

Content:
e field reconnaissance investigations and in conjunction with the information in the developed database, a preliminary determination of site suitability should be made to identify information gaps and potential hazards to help formulate the plan for the detailed site investigation stage. The presence of features or characteristics that could potentially result in deleterious ground displacement (e.g., fault displacement, subsurface dissolution, and settlement or subsidence), swelling soils and shales, or other natural hazards (e.g., underground cavities, landslides, or periodic flooding) could make plant design difficult and require additional extensive investigations to assess properly. For sites where such features and characteristics exist, it might be advantageous to search for a more suitable site. 4. Detailed Site Investigations 4.1 General The detailed site investigation phase acquires all geologic and material property data needed for the engineering analyses, design, and construction of a plant, including the related critical structures. A multidisciplinary team is needed to accomplish the different tasks during this phase. Subsequent site investigations might be needed if additional data are required to supplement a gap in the knowledge associated with the geologic characteristics and subsurface material properties at the site. The engineering properties of rock and soil can be determined through drilling and sampling, in situ testing, field geophysical measurements, and laboratory testing. This guide describes in situ testing and field geophysical measurements, as well as drilling and sampling procedures used to gather samples for laboratory testing. For guidance on laboratory testing procedures, refer to RG 1.138. All pertinent conclusions should be presented and linked directly to the information that provides the bases for the conclusions. Site-specific information to be developed and analyzed should include, but not be limited to, the following: