Management of Uranium Releases from Uranium Mines and Mills

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) and Environment Canada (EC) have independent, but related mandates for protecting the environment within the nuclear industry.

To address the risk management of uranium released to the environment from uranium mining and milling facilities, the CNSC and EC, through a Memorandum of Understanding, are required to publish annual reports outlining the progress of risk management activities.

2007 Annual Report

• Risk Management of Uranium Releases from Uranium Mines and Mills

The first Annual Report found that:

• The CNSC and Environment Canada are meeting their regulatory commitments and responsibilities associated with the safe regulation and risk management of uranium releases from nuclear facilities.
• The risk management objectives related to the Rabbit Lake Operation have been achieved within the required timeline. By May 2007, an 86% reduction in concentration of uranium in the effluent and an 85% reduction in total discharge of uranium to the environment had been achieved.
• The risk management objectives related to the Key Lake Operation have been achieved within the required timeline. The performance of the water treatment system was reviewed, and it demonstrated a successful management of water-borne uranium and a resulting improvement in downstream water quality.
• While the Cluff Lake Operation is not subject to immediate uranium risk management measures, the CNSC continues to monitor environmental performance as part of the present decommissioning licence. Decommissioning, monitoring and follow-up activities continue at the site.