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Initiating Event Identification and Screening for Nuclear Waste Repository Preclosure Risk Assessment

by P. A. Harris, HLB Advanced Technology, United States,
C. A. Bolig, HLB Advanced Technology, United States,
T. D. Brown, HLB Advanced Technology, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: High Level Radioactive Waste Management 1990

Abstract:

This paper describes a method to identify potential initiating events that might occur during the preclosure phase at a nuclear waste repository proposed for the Yucca Mountain area of Nevada. Initiating events of interest must be theoretically capable of causing radiological exposure hazards to either repository operations personnel or to the general public. This methodology was used to develop a comprehensive list of potential accidents. Over 230 potential initiating events were identified as candidates for further consideration. The initiating events were developed into potential accident sequences through the application of event tree logic models. The results indicate that repository areas with a single barrier to open release of radionuclides and involve operations that are susceptible to human error dominate the accident occurrence frequency.

Subject Headings: Radioactive wastes | Public health and safety | Accidents | Health hazards | Risk management | Radioactive materials | Hazardous substances | Nevada | United States

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