Administrative and technical actions bringing a permanently shut-down nuclear facility to a demonstrated end state permitting removal of some or all regulatory controls. Waste management and site-release evidence are integral to completion.
The specified condition at completion of nuclear decommissioning, supported by final characterisation and records. It can permit unrestricted reuse or retain defined restrictions.
Removal of materials or objects from further radiological regulatory control under specified criteria. Absence of an obvious radiation signal is not sufficient evidence of clearance.
Encasement of radioactive structures in a long-lived material. Historical classifications included it as a third strategy; IAEA GSR Part 6 excludes it for planned permanent shutdown, allowing consideration only in exceptional circumstances.
A strategy maintaining a facility safely for a period before final dismantling. radioactive decay can reduce later dose, while surveillance, deterioration and knowledge retention remain obligations.
A strategy beginning dismantling and decontamination soon after permanent shutdown, making early use of operating knowledge and enabling earlier site reuse.
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Nuclear decommissioning is the process of safely closing and dismantling a nuclear power plant or facility once it has reached the end of its operational life or has been shut down for other reasons. The objective of decommissioning is to manage the removal of radioactive materials and ensure that the site can be restored for other uses or remain safe for the public and the environment.