Addressing the Scope and Safety of Nuclear Fuel Transport
The NWMO has released a Plain Language Summary (APM-REP-05000-0223 R000) to consolidate information regarding the transportation of used nuclear fuel as part of the Deep Geological Repository (DGR) project. This document has been provided to the Government of Canada for public review.
You can read the document called Consolidated Information on the Transportation of Used Fuel – Plain Language Summary on the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada web site.
Purpose of the Document
This report combines information from the Initial Project Description and the response to the Summary of Issues. It is intended to provide the public with a clearer understanding of how the NWMO proposes to include transportation in the upcoming impact assessment.
Key Report Details:
- Regulatory Oversight: Transportation is governed by the CNSC’s Packaging and Transport of Nuclear Substances Regulations and Transport Canada’s Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations.
- Infrastructure Changes: The NWMO is including two specific physical changes in the project scope: the construction of a new Hwy 17 turn-off with access roads and a potential rail spur.
- Container Safety: Used fuel is transported in solid form within certified Used Fuel Transportation Packages (UFTP). These containers are designed to provide radiation shielding and prevent the release of contents during normal operations and accident conditions.
- Traffic Volume: The NWMO anticipates two to three shipments arriving at the site per day, six days per week, nine months per year. This represents a estimated 0.5% increase in existing traffic volumes on the Trans-Canada Highway.
- Emergency Response: The NWMO is required to develop a transportation emergency response plan that coordinates with federal, provincial, and local first responders.
Project Timeline
While the Preliminary Transportation Plan is currently being updated and reviewed, shipments are not projected to begin until the 2040s. The NWMO will be required to demonstrate that all safety and security requirements have been met before any shipments occur.
Contact Information
For more information, the NWMO can be reached at 1.866.249.6966 or via email at regulatoryfeedback@nwmo.ca.
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