Packaging and Transport of Waste to the Nirex (UK) Repository

Abstract

United Kingdom Nirex Limited (Nirex) is developing a deep repository for the disposal of ILW and some LLW from UK waste producers. Two key parts of the programme are the specification of waste packages—containers and their contents—and the development of a transport system to convey packaged wastes to the repository. Nirex and waste producers have established a range of standard waste packages and transport packages. Each standard waste package meets an identified need and is defined by a Waste Package Specification which provides the essential link to the repository design. Re-usable shielded transport containers are being developed to transport certain waste packages to the repository, the transport container and contents together forming a Type B package. A Probabilistic Safety Assessment for transport associated with a repository at Sellafield predicts that ‘conventional’ transport risks will be simply related to the volumes of rail and road traffic. The additional radiological risks are expected to be extremely low.