On what basis is radioactive waste classified?

Radioactive waste is classified based on several critical factors, primarily level of radioactivity, duration of hazard, and physical form. These criteria are essential to ensure safe handling, storage, and disposal of the waste.

The level of radioactivity indicates how much radiation the material emits, which in turn influences the safety measures needed for handling and storage. The duration of hazard refers to how long the waste remains radioactive, impacting the disposal solutions and monitoring required over time. The physical form of the waste, such as solid, liquid, or gas, also plays a significant role in managing the waste, as different forms may require different containment strategies or treatment methods.

Classifying radioactive waste using these criteria ensures that the appropriate regulatory standards are followed and that the risks to human health and the environment are minimized effectively. This classification system aligns with practices in radiological safety, where understanding the nature of the waste is paramount to implementing effective management strategies.