Architecture and management of a geological repository - Andra

2 – General DescriptionIt should also be checked that the design of a repository meets environmental protection criteriaconcerning its impact beyond issues of radioactivity (notably the chemical toxicity of elements whichmay be contained in certain wastes or introduced with repository construction materials). As a result,the use of labile toxic elements in the construction of packages and the repository installations areparticularly avoided. It will also be noted that the safety functions of a repository actually help reducethe impact of toxic elements on the environment.2.2.5 Protection of men during repository operation and observationThe public and personnel must be protected from the radiological risks associated with the industrialactivities. For the operating phase, Andra has adopted an individual annual dose of less than ¼ mSv asa public protection objective. For workers directly assigned to jobs under ionising radiation conditionsand therefore benefiting from reinforced follow-up, the objective is to limit the annual individual dosebelow 5 mSv p.a.Man must also be protected from other harmful effects potentially generated by the operation of arepository [29], especially:exposure to dust,exposure to potentially toxic gases,exposure to high temperatures (particularly caused by the heat given off by the waste),accidental risks (see chapter 11 – Operational safety: fire, explosion, falling blocks or collapse inunderground installations, electrical hazards, etc.).Finally, environmental protection constraints during industrial operation (groundwater and surfacewater [30], air [31], landscape and, for information at this stage, the vicinity, soils, fauna and flora)will be noted.DOSSIER 2005 ARGILE -ARCHITECTURE AND MANAGEMENT OF A GEOLOGICAL DISPOSAL SYSTEM42/495