Facilities that handle radioactive waste need to be well planned

Facilities that handle radioactive waste need to be well planned from the beginning to ensure that they are capable of handling the waste effectively. A complete waste management program is obtained by making an exhaustive prior evaluation to ensure that the key objective is to prevent and minimize waste while safeguarding against the harmful effects that come from the waste. The evaluation involves meticulous analysis of the entire radionuclide record and usage patterns, the type of waste, and the quantities generated. The assessment also needs to consider the possible methods of disposal.

However, the assessment should be performed at the initial planning stages before a facility is created so that certain specialized features can be incorporated in the building plan of the facility (International Atomic Energy Agency 12). However, in certain instances where there is an existing facility, the evaluation may still be performed to improve the efficacy of the waste treatment process. In such cases, it is vital to harmonize the waste management activities of the various laboratories within the facility. Nevertheless, the appropriate waste management practices can only be chosen following an evaluation of all uses of radionuclides within the facility.

Conclusion

The production of medical waste is inevitable due to the rising need for radionuclides in research and therapeutics. Such waste poses extensive risks to workers in medical and research facilities. However, careful planning and observation of the policies that govern the use and management of radioactive materials can go a long way in mitigating these dangers. Facilities that generate medical radioactive waste need to be adequately equipped to handle their waste without exposing their workers to radiation hazards. In addition, the workers need to have sufficient training to ensure that the right procedures are followed in the management of radioactive waste.