Radioactive Waste Management
The management of radioactive waste is strictly controlled and regulated to monitor and prevent any possible impact on public health and the environment.
Radioactive waste is produced in Scotland from sources such as nuclear power generators, the decommissioning of nuclear power stations, the health sector, industry and research.
Radioactive waste is usually classified according to its level of radioactivity. Three main categories are Low Level Waste, Intermediate Level Waste and High Level Waste.
The Executive is committed to engaging the Scottish public on radioactive waste management policy.
Regulation of the environmental impacts of radioactive waste management is undertaken under the Radioactive Substances Act 1993 ( RSA 93), with amendments noted in the Environment Act 1995, The Food Standards Act 1999 and the Radioactive Substances (Basic Safety Standards) (Scotland) Regulations 2000, and is undertaken by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency ( SEPA).
SEPA receives advice on scientific and technical issues from groups such as the Dounreay Particles Advisory Group ( DPAG).
The storage and treatment of waste is strictly regulated and controlled by the Health and Safety Executive (Nuclear Installations Inspectorate) and by SEPA.