Radioactive waste management is an important part of radiation safety for organisations that use radioactive materials. Safe management requires planning from the point where waste is generated through segregation, storage, monitoring and final disposal or transfer through authorised arrangements.
Where radioactive waste can arise
Medical, industrial, research and educational activities can generate different forms of radioactive waste. The characteristics depend on the radionuclide, activity, physical form and intended use.
Key controls
- Waste identification and classification
- Segregation of compatible waste streams
- Clear labelling and inventory records
- Controlled temporary storage
- Radiation and contamination monitoring
- Access control
- Documented transfer or disposal arrangements
- Incident response procedures
Why documentation is important
Records provide evidence that waste has been controlled and managed according to the facility’s approved arrangements. They also support inspections and internal audits.
Medcare Hub support
Medcare Hub provides radiation safety consultancy, radioactive waste management training, RPP development and compliance support for facilities working with radiation sources.
Important: Waste handling, storage and disposal must follow the applicable FANR requirements, licence conditions and authorised disposal arrangements.