We have today published our revised position statement on the interpretation of ‘bulk quantities’ in relation to the storage and disposal of radioactive matter, along with our response to the public consultation exercise that took place between 19 November 2020 and 17 January 2021.
The revised position statement is intended to provide clarity for ONR inspectors and prospective operators of installations designed or adapted for the storage or disposal of radioactive matter who may be considering whether they require a licence under section 1 of the Nuclear Installations Act 1965 to operate that installation.
In providing clarity around the term ‘bulk quantities’ we aim to:
- ensure a targeted, proportionate, consistent, and transparent approach to regulating the management of radioactive matter
- focus on applying the licensing regime to those hazards that require it, without imposing inappropriate or disproportionate obligations on industry when there is already adequate regulatory scrutiny in place
- secure public confidence
- continue to protect people and society from the hazards of the nuclear industry
We would like to thank all those who took the time to respond to the consultation and share their feedback with us.
All of the comments that we received were carefully considered, with equal status applied to all.
The revised position will be included in a future update to our published guidance on Licensing Nuclear Installations and will be supported by additional guidance on its application.