Document: NRC Regulatory Guide
Document ID: 96baa826-d3bb-478b-8f38-e74500f6d433
Document Type: regulatory_guide
Title: 06/2009 (Rev. 2)
Source: NRC Regulatory Guide Division 1
Source URL: https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML0911/ML091170109.pdf
Revision Date: 2023-06
Chapter: 
Section ID: RG-1.21
CFR Part: 
CFR Title: 

Content:
d radioactive material to the unrestricted area. Abnormal discharges may also be categorized as either batch or continuous depending on the circumstances. The distinction between the terms “abnormal release” and “abnormal discharge” is important for describing the staff position for measuring, evaluating, and reporting releases and discharges, especially where leaks and spills are involved. That portion of an abnormal release that is discharged to the unrestricted area is reported as a abnormal discharge in the year in which the discharge occurred. The portion of an abnormal release that remains on site is considered residual radioactivity (see 10 CFR 20) and is documented in accordance with 10 CFR 50.75(g). Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 17 Low-level radioactive system leakage resulting from minor equipment failures and component aging (wear and tear) may be expected to occur as an anticipated part of the plant operation. If such leakage is captured by, or directed to, a system designed to accept and handle radioactive material including the subsequent planned and controlled discharge of the radioactive material (e.g., as described in the FSAR or ODCM), that evolution is not considered an abnormal release. Normal system leakage captured by effluent ventilation control systems or sumps is not an abnormal release (provided that, before discharge of the radioactive material, the discharge is planned and controlled). (See also the definitions of “unplanned release” and “uncontrolled release” in the glossary.) In certain circumstances, some subjectivity may be associated with the definitions of “unplanned release” and “uncontrolled release.” In these situations, additional circumstances should be considered to determine if an abnormal release occurred. A well-designed and documented evaluation of a release point can include an evaluation of the potential for an unplanned or uncontrolled release. The evaluation can establish bounding criteria that