Publication Laka-library:
Transporting 'low-level' radioactive waste (1989)
| Author | Radioactive Waste Campaign |
| Date | 1989 |
| Classification | 6.01.8.50/13 (TRANSPORTS - OTHER COUNTRIES - GENERAL) |
| Front | 
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From the publication:
TRANSPORTING "LOW LEVEL" RADIOACTIVE WASTE More than 20,000 companies, universities, hospitals and government facilities produce and ship "low-level" waste in the United States. Most of the radioactivity in "low-level" waste, however, is produced by commercial nuclear reactors. This dangerous material is presently being shipped along Interstate highways to three landfills in Nevada, South Carolina and Washington. By 1993, up to 15 landfills or storage facilities may be receiving radioactive waste. Contrary to popular mythology, numerous transportation accidents have occurred. Radioactive materials have been released, contaminating the earth and exposing local emergency personnel and the public. Even during normal transport, radiation penetrates containers and exposes the public, much like a travelling X-ray machine. The questions we have to ask ourselves are these: What is "low-level" waste? How is radioactive waste packaged and marked? What is the transportation track record? How safe are the containers? Is transportation of radioactive materials necessary? What are the options? A clear presentation of the facts is not comforting, but is needed by the public, elected officials and the media.
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