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Radioactive Waste Management

The University of Utah's Radioactive Waste Management Program ensures the safe collection, storage, processing, packaging, and disposal of radioactive waste. All activities comply with government regulations to protect public health, safety, and the environment.

Things to Consider

Policy & Compliance

All individuals using radioactive materials must be trained in proper segregation, packaging, and waste management procedures. To reduce risks, users are encouraged to minimize waste generation and avoid producing mixed waste whenever possible.

The Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) oversees radioactive waste management, ensuring procedures align with safety regulations and that all exposures remain As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA).

Types of Radioactive Waste

  • Animal Waste – Carcasses, bedding, and excreta containing radioactive material.
  • Aqueous Waste – Water-soluble liquids that may be disposed of via sewer systems under regulatory limits.
  • Compactable Waste – Dry, non-putrescible materials such as paper, plastic, and metals.
  • Liquid Scintillation (LS) Media – Solvents used in scintillation counting, categorized based on toxicity and flammability.
  • Mixed Waste – Contains both radioactive and hazardous materials as classified by the EPA.

Waste Handling Procedures

Training & Qualifications

All personnel handling radioactive waste must complete radiation safety training before engaging in waste-related tasks. Technicians must undergo specialized training, including 24 hours of hazardous waste operations instruction.

Waste Pickup Requests

Laboratories generating significant quantities of waste can schedule regular pickups via the Radiation Safety Team. Waste collection requests can be submitted online or via telephone.

Protective Equipment

Personnel handling radioactive waste must wear protective gear, including:

  • Radiation badge dosimeter
  • Lab coat and gloves
  • Safety goggles or face shield (for liquid waste handling)
  • Steel-toed safety shoes (for handling heavy materials)

Transportation & Storage

  • Vehicles transporting radioactive materials must be properly placarded and secured.
  • Waste must be transported using wheeled carts or drums, ensuring secondary containment for liquid waste.
  • All radioactive materials must be removed from vehicles at the end of each workday.
  • In case of a transportation incident, Campus Police (801-585-2677) and the Radiation Safety Team (801-581-6141) must be notified immediately.

Waste Segregation & Packaging Guidelines

To ensure compliance, laboratories must:

  • Use heavy-duty containers for sharps and compactable waste.
  • Keep liquid waste in secondary containers.
  • Label and document all waste appropriately.
  • Store animal waste frozen until disposal.

Disposal & Record Keeping

  • Short-lived waste (<120 days half-life) is stored for decay before disposal.
  • Long-lived waste is compacted and prepared for offsite disposal.
  • Annual reports summarize all radioactive waste disposals for compliance tracking.

For more detailed information, refer to the full Radioactive Waste Management PDF or contact the Radiation Safety Team (801-581-6141).

 

Resources:

RPR 54 Radioactive Waste Management

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