Regulatory Guide 1.21: Difference between revisions

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{{Adams
{{Adams
| number = ML21139A224
| number = ML091170109
| issue date = 09/30/2021
| issue date = 06/30/2009
| title = Measuring, Evaluating, and Reporting Radioactive Material in Liquid and Gaseous Effluents and Solid Waste
| title = Measuring, Evaluating, and Reporting Radioactive Materials in Liquid and Gaseous Effluents and Solid Waste
| author name = Garry S
| author name =  
| author affiliation = NRC/NRR/DRA/ARCB
| author affiliation = NRC/RES
| addressee name =  
| addressee name =  
| addressee affiliation =  
| addressee affiliation =  
| docket =  
| docket =  
| license number =  
| license number =  
| contact person = Song K
| contact person = O'Donnell, Edward, RES/RGB
| case reference number = DG 1377
| case reference number = DG-1186
| document report number = RG-1.021. Rev 3
| document report number = RG-1.021, Rev. 2
| package number = ML21132A170
| package number = ML091170100
| document type = Regulatory Guide
| document type = Regulatory Guide
| page count = 86
| page count = 72
}}
}}
{{#Wiki_filter:U.S. NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION  
{{#Wiki_filter:U.S. NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION
June 2009


REGULATORY GUIDE RG 1.21, REVISION 3
Revision 2


Issue Date: September 2021 Technical Lead: Steven Garry 
REGULATORY GUIDE
OFFICE OF NUCLEAR REGULATORY RESEARCH


Written suggestions regarding this guide or development of new guides may be submitted through the NRCs public Web site in the NRC Library at https://nrcweb.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/reg-guides/,under Document Collections, in Regulatory Guides, at https://nrcweb.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/reg-guides/contactus.html.
The NRC issues regulatory guides to describe and make available to the public methods that the NRC staff considers acceptable for use in implementing specific parts of the agencys regulations, techniques that the staff uses in evaluating specific problems or postulated accidents, and data that the staff needs in reviewing applications for permits and licenses.  Regulatory guides are not substitutes for regulations, and compliance with them is not required. Methods and solutions that differ from those set forth in regulatory guides will be deemed acceptable if they provide a basis for the findings required for the issuance or continuance of a permit or license by the Commission.


Electronic copies of this RG, previous versions of RGs, and other recently issued guides are also available through the NRCs public Web site in the NRC Library at https://nrcweb.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/reg-guides/, under Document Collections, in Regulatory Guides. This RG is also available through the NRCs Agencywide Documents Access and Management System (ADAMS) at http://www.nrc.gov/readingrm/adams.html, under ADAMS Accession Number (No.)
This guide was issued after consideration of comments received from the public.
ML21139A224. The regulatory analysis may be found in ADAMS under Accession No. ML20287A434. The associated draft guide DG-1377 may be found in ADAMS under Accession No. ML20287A423, and the staff responses to the public comments on DG-1377 may be found under ADAMS Accession No. ML21132A226.


MEASURING, EVALUATING, AND REPORTING
Regulatory guides are issued in 10 broad divisions:  1, Power Reactors; 2, Research and Test Reactors; 3, Fuels and Materials Facilities; 4, Environmental and Siting; 5, Materials and Plant Protection; 6, Products; 7, Transportation; 8, Occupational Health;
RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL IN LIQUID AND GASEOUS
9, Antitrust and Financial Review; and 10, General.
EFFLUENTS AND SOLID WASTE


==A. INTRODUCTION==
Electronic copies of this guide and other recently issued guides are available through the NRCs public Web site under the Regulatory Guides document collection of the NRCs Electronic Reading Room at http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc- collections/reg-guides/ and through the NRCs Agencywide Documents Access and Management System (ADAMS) at http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/adams.html, under Accession No. ML091170109
Purpose


This regulatory guide (RG) describes methods the staff of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) considers acceptable for the following uses: 
REGULATORY GUIDE 1.21 (Draft was issued as DG-1186, dated October 2008)  


(1) measuring, evaluating, and reporting licensed (plant-related) radioactivity in effluents and solid radioactive waste shipments from nuclear power plants and spent fuel storage facilities, and
MEASURING, EVALUATING, AND REPORTING RADIOACTIVE
MATERIAL IN LIQUID AND GASEOUS EFFLUENTS AND
SOLID WASTE


(2) assessing and reporting the public dose to demonstrate compliance with Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFRPart 20, Standards for Protection Against Radiation (Ref. 1), Title 40, (40 CFR) Part 190, Environmental Radiation Protection Standards for Nuclear Power Operations (Ref. 2), and nuclear power plant Technical Specifications.
==A. INTRODUCTION==
This guide describes methods the staff of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)  
considers acceptable for use: (1) in measuring, evaluating, and reporting plant-related radioactivity (excluding background radiation) in effluents and solid radioactive waste shipments from NRC licensed facilities, (2) in assessing and reporting the public dose from facility operations, and (3) on complying with
40 CFR 190 in accordance with the requirements of 10 CFR 20.1301(e).


This guide incorporates the risk-informed principles of the Reactor Oversight Process.  A  
This guide incorporates the risk-informed principles of the Reactor Oversight Process.  A risk- informed, performance-based approach to regulatory decision-making combines the risk-informed and performance-based elements discussed in the staff requirements memorandum on SECY-98-144, White Paper on Risk-Informed and Performance-Based Regulation, dated March 1, 1999 (Ref. 1).   
risk-informed, performance-based approach to regulatory decision making combines the risk-informed and performance-based elements discussed in the staff requirements memorandum to SECY-98-144, Staff RequirementsSECY-98-144White Paper on Risk-Informed and Performance-Based Regulation, dated February 24, 1999 (Ref. 3).   


Applicability
The following regulations and design criteria establish the regulatory basis for the radiological effluent control program: 


This RG is a Division 1, Power Reactors RG, which applies to nuclear power plant licensees and applicants subject to Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR) Part 20, Standards for Protection Against Radiation, This RG is also applicable to specific and general licensees under
1.
10 Part 72 for storage of spent fuel.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 2 This includes licenses issued under the following regulations:
Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR) Section 20.1501, Surveys (Ref. 2),


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Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 2
10 CFR Part 50, Domestic Licensing of Production and Utilization Facilities (Ref. 4), applies to the licensing of production and utilization facilities.
2.


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10 CFR 50.36a, Technical Specifications on Effluents from Nuclear Power Reactors (Ref. 3),
10 CFR Part 52, Licenses, Certifications, and Approvals for Nuclear Power Plants (Ref. 5),  
applies to applicants and holders of combined licenses, standard design certifications, standard design approvals, and manufacturing licenses.


*
3.
10 CFR Part 72, Licensing Requirements for the Independent Storage of Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Radioactive Waste, and Reactor-Related Greater Than Class C Waste (Ref. 6),
applies to general licenses issued under Part 72 and to applicants for and holders of specific licenses under Part 72.


Applicable Regulations
10 CFR 20.1302, Compliance with Dose Limits for Individual Members of the Public, 


The following regulations establish the regulatory basis for the radiological effluent control program:
4.


*
10 CFR 72.44(d), License Conditions (Ref. 4),   
10 CFR Part 20, Standards for Protection Against Radiation  


o 10 CFR 20.1003, Definitions, defines terminology that is used in the regulations and in this regulatory guide.
5.


o 10 CFR 20.1301, Dose limits for individual members of the public, establishes radiation dose limits for individual members of the public.
Section IV.B of Appendix I, Numerical Guides for Design Objectives and Limiting Conditions for Operation to Meet the Criterion As Low As Is Reasonably Achievable for Radioactive Material in Light-Water-Cooled Nuclear Power Reactor Effluents, to
10 CFR Part 50, Domestic Licensing of Production and Utilization Facilities.


o 10 CFR 20.1302, Compliance with dose limits for individual members of the public, requires licensees to perform surveys of radiation levels in unrestricted and controlled areas and radioactive materials in effluents released to unrestricted and controlled areas to demonstrate compliance with the dose limits for individual members of the public.
6.


o 10 CFR 20.1402, Radiological criteria for unrestricted use, establishes acceptance criteria for license termination to achieve the sites unrestricted use status after decommissioning.
General Design Criterion 60, Control of releases of radioactive materials to the environment, of Appendix A, General Design Criteria for Nuclear Power Plants, to Title 10, Part 50, of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR Part 50), Domestic Licensing of Production and Utilization Facilities.


o 10 CFR 20.1501, General, establishes requirements for performing radiological surveys.
7.


o 10 CFR 20.2001, General requirements (for waste disposal), establishes methods for disposing of licensed material.
General Design Criterion 64, Monitoring radioactivity releases, of Appendix A,
General Design Criteria for Nuclear Power Plants, to Title 10, Part 50, of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR Part 50), Domestic Licensing of Production and Utilization Facilities.


o 10 CFR 20.2103, Records of surveys, requires licensees to maintain records of surveys and calibrations.
10 CFR 20.1501 requires surveys that may be necessary and are reasonable to evaluate the magnitude and extent of potential radiological hazards.  In 10 CFR Part 20, Standards for Protection against Radiation, survey is defined as an evaluation of the radiological conditions and potential hazards related to radioactive material or other sources of radiation, including (1) a physical survey of the location of radioactive material and (2) measurements or calculations of levels of radiation or concentrations or quantities of radioactive material present.  The design objectives set out in
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, provide numerical guidance on limiting conditions for operation for light- water cooled nuclear power reactors to meet the requirement that radioactive materials in effluents discharged to unrestricted areas be kept as low as is reasonably achievable (ALARA).  


o 10 CFR 20.2107, Records of dose to individual members of the public, requires licensees to maintain records that demonstrate compliance with dose limits for members of the public.
10 CFR 50.36a requires establishing technical specifications with procedures and controls over effluents, including reporting (1) the quantity of each of the principal radionuclides discharged to unrestricted areas in liquid and gaseous effluents and (2) other information used to estimate the maximum potential annual radiation doses to the public from radioactive effluents.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 3 o 10 CFR 20.2108, Records of waste disposal, requires licensees to maintain records of the disposal of licensed material.
In 10 CFR 20.1302, the NRC establishes requirements for surveys in the unrestricted and controlled areas and for radioactive materials in effluents discharged to unrestricted and controlled areas.


o 10 CFR Part 20, Appendix B, Annual Limits on Intakes (ALIs) and Derived Air Concentrations (DACs) of Radionuclides for Occupational Exposure; Effluent Concentrations; Concentrations for Release to Sewage, establishes intake limits and airborne and liquid concentration limits for occupational exposure and member of the public exposure.
The purpose of these surveys is to demonstrate compliance with the dose limits of 10 CFR 20.1301, Dose Limits for Individual Members of the Public.  Although 10 CFR 20.1302(b)(2) provides a second method of demonstrating compliance with dose limits for individual members of the public, nuclear power plant technical specifications essentially require use of 10 CFR 20.1302(b)(1) to determine the total effective dose equivalent to the individual likely to receive the highest dose.  This requirement is based on actual, realistic exposure pathways to a real individual.  (See also Regulatory Guide 1.109, Calculation of Annual Doses to Man from Routine Releases of Reactor Effluents for the Purpose of Demonstrating Compliance with 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I (Ref.  5) and Attachment 6 to SECY-03-0069, Results of the License Termination Rule Analysis, dated May 2, 2003 (Ref.  6)).  


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Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 3 In 10 CFR 72.44(d), the NRC establishes environmental monitoring requirements for each facility holding a specific license under Part 72 authorizing receipt, handling, and storage of spent fuel, high-level radioactive waste, and/or reactor-related greater than class C waste.  This regulatory guide describes a method for reporting these results.
10 CFR Part 50, Domestic Licensing of Production and Utilization Facilities


o 10 CFR 50.34a, Design objectives for equipment to control releases of radioactive material in effluentsnuclear power reactors, establishes numerical guides for design objectives and limiting conditions of operation to control radioactive effluents.
The general design criteria, Criterion 60, specifies nuclear power units shall control liquid and gaseous effluents and handle solid waste for both normal and anticipated operational occurrences.


o 10 CFR 50.36a, Technical specifications on effluents from nuclear power reactors, requires licensees to establish technical specifications with operating procedures and controls be established and followed and that the radioactive waste system be maintained and used.
The general design criteria, Criterion 64, specifies that a means shall be provided for monitoring effluent discharge paths and the plant environs for radioactivity that may be released during both normal and anticipated operational occurrences.


o 10 CFR 50.75, Reporting and record keeping for decommissioning planning, paragraph (g,) requires licensees to keep records of information important to decommissioning.
The reports required under (1) Subpart M, Reports, of 10 CFR Part 20 (related to reports of exposures, radiation levels, and concentrations or radioactive material), (2) 10 CFR 50.72, Immediate Notification Requirements for Operating Power Reactors, and (3) 10 CFR 50.73, Licensee Event Report System, or other licensee requirements must be made in accordance with these applicable regulations.  In addition, effluent discharges and radioactive material losses reported under those regulatory provisions should also be reported in the Annual Radioactive Effluent Release Report (ARERR) described in this regulatory guide.


o 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix A, General Design Criteria for Nuclear Power Plants, General Design Criterion (GDC) 60, Control of Releases of Radioactive Materials to the Environment, specifies that the nuclear power unit design shall include means to control suitably liquid and gaseous effluents and solid waste.
This regulatory guide contains information collection requirements covered by 10 CFR Part 50  
that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved under OMB control number 3150-0011.  The NRC may neither conduct nor sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, an information collection request or requirement unless the requesting document displays a currently valid OMB control number.


o 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix A, GDC 64, Monitoring Radioactivity Releases, specifies that means shall be provided for monitoring the reactor containment atmosphere, spaces containing components for recirculation of loss-of-coolant fluids, effluent discharge paths and the plant environs for radioactivity that may be released from normal operations, anticipated operational occurrences, and from postulated accidents.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 4 TABLE OF CONTENTS


o 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, Numerical Guides for Design Objectives and Limiting Conditions for Operation to Meet the Criterion As Low As Is Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) for Radioactive Material in Light-Water-Cooled Nuclear Power Reactor Effluents, establishes design objectives on a per reactor basis for meeting the requirements of 10 CFR 50.34a.
==A. INTRODUCTION==
..................................................................................................................... 1


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==B. DISCUSSION==
10 CFR Part 52, Licenses, Certifications, and Approvals for Nuclear Power Plants  
............................................................................................................................ 6
1.  Regulatory Guidance .............................................................................................................. 6
2. Objectives of the Radiological Effluent Control Program ..................................................... 7


o 10 CFR 52.0, Scope, requires Part 52 licensees to comply with all requirements in
==C. REGULATORY POSITION==
10 CFR Chapter I that are applicable, which includes, for example, 10 CFR Part 20 as discussed above.
..................................................................................................... 9
1.  Effluent Monitoring ................................................................................................................ 9
1.1  Guidance for Effluent Monitoring .................................................................................... 9
1.2  Release Points for Effluent Monitoring ............................................................................ 9
1.3  Monitoring a Significant Release Point .......................................................................... 10
1.4  Monitoring a Less-Significant Release Point ................................................................. 10  
1.5  Monitoring Leaks and Spills ........................................................................................... 11
1.6  Monitoring Continuous Releases .................................................................................... 13
1.7  Monitoring Batch Releases ............................................................................................. 14
1.8  Principal Radionuclides for Effluent Monitoring ........................................................... 14
1.9  Carbon-14 ....................................................................................................................... 15
1.10 Abnormal Releases ....................................................................................................... 16
2.  Effluent Sampling ................................................................................................................. 17
2.1  Representative Sampling ................................................................................................ 17
2.2  Sampling Liquid Radioactive Waste .............................................................................. 18
2.3  Sampling Gaseous Radioactive Waste ........................................................................... 18
2.4  Sampling Bias ................................................................................................................. 18
2.5  Composite Sampling....................................................................................................... 19
2.6  Sample Preparation and Preservation ............................................................................. 19
2.7  Short-Lived Nuclides and Decay Corrections ................................................................ 19
3  Effluent Dispersion (Meteorology and Hydrology) ............................................................... 19
3.1  Meteorological Data ....................................................................................................... 19
3.2  Atmospheric Transport and Diffusion ............................................................................ 20
3.3  Release Height ................................................................................................................ 20  
3.4  Aquatic Dispersion (Surface Waters) ............................................................................. 20
3.5  Spills and Leaks to the Ground Surface ......................................................................... 21
3.6  Spills and Leaks to Ground Water .................................................................................. 21
4.  Quality Assurance ................................................................................................................. 23
4.1  Regulatory Guidance ...................................................................................................... 23
4.2  Quality Control Checks .................................................................................................. 24
4.3  Functional Checks .......................................................................................................... 24
4.4  Procedures ...................................................................................................................... 24
4.5  Calibration of Laboratory Equipment and Radiation Monitors ...................................... 24
4.6  Calibration of Measuring and Test Equipment ............................................................... 25
4.7  Calibration Frequency..................................................................................................... 25
4.8  Measurement Uncertainty ............................................................................................... 25
5.  Dose Assessments for Members of the Public ..................................................................... 25
5.1  Bounding Dose Assessments .......................................................................................... 26


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Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 5
10 CFR Part 72, Licensing Requirements for the Independent Storage of Spent Nuclear Fuel, High Level Radioactive Waste, and Reactor-Related Greater Than Class C Waste  
5.2  Members of the Public .................................................................................................... 27
5.3  Occupancy Factors .......................................................................................................... 27
5.4  10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I ........................................................................................... 27
5.5  10 CFR 20.1301(a) through (c) ...................................................................................... 28
5.6  10 CFR 20.1301(e) ......................................................................................................... 28
5.7  Dose Assessments for 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I ....................................................... 29
5.8  Dose Assessments for 10 CFR 20.1301(e) ..................................................................... 30
5.9  Dose Calculations ........................................................................................................... 31
6.  Solid Radioactive Waste Shipped for Processing or Disposal ............................................. 31
7.  Reporting Errata in Effluent Release Reports ...................................................................... 32
7.1  Examples of Small Errors ............................................................................................... 32
7.2  Reporting Small Errors ................................................................................................... 32
7.3  Examples of Large Errors ............................................................................................... 33
7.4  Reporting Large Errors ................................................................................................... 33
8.  Format and Content of the Annual Radioactive Effluent Release Report ............................ 33
8.1  Gaseous Effluent ............................................................................................................. 34
8.2  Liquid Effluents .............................................................................................................. 36
8.3  Solid Waste Storage and Shipments ............................................................................... 37
8.4  Dose Assessments ........................................................................................................... 37
8.5  Supplemental Information .............................................................................................. 38


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 4 o 10 CFR 72.44(d) requires that each specific license must include technical specifications that establishes limits on the release of radioactive materials and the ALARA objectives for effluents and that require establishment of an environmental monitoring program to ensure compliance with those limits.
==D. IMPLEMENTATION==
.............................................................................................................. 40
GLOSSARY .................................................................................................................................. 41 REFERENCES .............................................................................................................................. 50
BIBLIOGRAPHY .......................................................................................................................... 54 APPENDIX A - TABLES .......................................................................................................... A-1


o 10 CFR 72.104, Criteria for radioactive materials in effluents and direct radiation from an ISFSI or MRS, (Monitored Retrievable Storage Installation) establishes dose limits to any real individual (excluding occupational exposures) beyond the Part 72 controlled area (as defined in 10 CFR 72.3 and meeting the minimum size requirements in 72.106(b)).   
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 6


o 10 CFR 72.126, Criteria for radiological protection, requires radiation protection systems be provided with effluent and direct radiation monitoring systems and controls to limit releases to ALARA under normal conditions and control releases under accident conditions and ensure limits relating to releases to the general environment will not be exceeded.
==B. DISCUSSION==
1. Regulatory Guidance 


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Six basic documents contain the regulatory guidance for implementing the 10 CFR Part 20 and
40 CFR Part 190, Environmental Radiation Protection Standards for Nuclear Power Operations
10 CFR Part 50 regulatory requirements and plant technical specifications related to monitoring and reporting of radioactive material in effluents and environmental media, solid radioactive waste disposal, and the public dose that results from licensed operation of a nuclear power plant: 


o 40 CFR 190.10, Standards for normal operation, establishes standards for normal operations and annual dose equivalent standards and limits on the total quantity of radioactive materials entering the environment from the entire uranium fuel cycle.
1.


o 40 CFR 190.11, Variances for unusual operations, establishes variances (allowances)
Regulatory Guide 1.21, Measuring, Evaluating, and Reporting Radioactive Material in Liquid and Gaseous Effluents and Solid Waste, 
for unusual operations where the standards in 40 CFR 190.10 may be exceeded.


*
2.
40 CFR Part 191, Environmental Radiation Protection Standards for Management and Disposal of Spent Nuclear Fuel and Transuranic Radioactive Wastes (Ref. 7)


o 40 CFR 191.03(a), Standards, establishes standards for the management and storage of spent nuclear fuel or transuranic radioactive wastes.
Regulatory Guide 4.1, Programs for Monitoring Radioactivity in the Environs of Nuclear Power Plants (Ref. 7), 


Related Guidance
3.


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Regulatory Guide 4.15, Quality Assurance for Radiological Monitoring Programs (Inception Through Normal Operations to License Termination)Effluent Streams and the Environment (Ref. 8),  
RG 1.23, Meteorological Monitoring Programs for Nuclear Power Plants (Ref. 8), provides guidance for an onsite meteorological measurements program.


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4.
RG 1.97, Revisions 0, 1, 2 and 3, Instrumentation for Light-Water-Cooled Nuclear Power Plants to Assess Plant and Environs Conditions During and Following an Accident, issued December 1975, August 1977, and December 1980, and May 1983, respectively (Ref. 9),
provides guidance on instrumentation used to monitor plant variables and systems during and following an accident.


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NUREG-1301, Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Guidance:  Standard Radiological Effluent Controls for Pressurized Water Reactors (Ref. 9)
RG 1.97, Revision 4, Criteria for Accident Monitoring Instrumentation for Nuclear Power Plants, issued June 2006 (Ref. 10), endorses (with certain clarifying regulatory positions) the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Standard (Std.) 497-2002, IEEE
Standard Criteria for Accident Monitoring Instrumentation for Nuclear Power Generating Stations (Ref. 11).


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 5  
5.
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RG 1.97, Revision 5, Criteria for Accident Monitoring Instrumentation for Nuclear Power Plants, issued April 2019 (Ref. 12), endorses, with exceptions and clarifications, IEEE
Std. 497-2016, IEEE Standard Criteria for Accident Monitoring Instrumentation for Nuclear Power Generating Stations (Ref. 13).  


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NUREG-1302, Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Guidance:  Standard Radiological Effluent Controls for Boiling Water Reactors (Ref. 10), and  
RG 1.109, Calculation of Annual Doses to Man from Routine Releases of Reactor Effluents for the Purpose of Demonstrating Compliance with 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I (Ref. 14), describes basic features of calculational models and assumptions used for the estimation of doses to the public.


*
6.
RG 1.111, Methods for Estimating Atmospheric Transport and Dispersion of Gaseous Effluents in Routine Releases from Light-Water-Cooled Reactors (Ref. 15), describes models and assumptions for the estimation of atmospheric dispersion of gaseous effluent releases.


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Regulatory Guide 1.109, Calculation of Annual Doses to Man from Routine Releases of Reactor Effluents for the Purpose of Demonstrating Compliance with 10 CFR Part 50,  
RG 1.112, Calculation of Releases of Radioactive Materials in Gaseous and Liquid Effluents from Light-Water-Cooled Power Reactors, (Ref. 16), provides acceptable methods for applicants to construct a nuclear power reactor to calculate realistic radioactive source terms for use in evaluating radioactive waste treatment systems to determine whether the design objectives of  
Appendix I.
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, are met, and to assess the environmental impact of radioactive effluents.


*
These six documents, when used in an integrated manner, provide the basic guidance and implementation details for developing and maintaining effluent and environmental monitoring programs at nuclear power plants.  The four regulatory guides specify the guidance for radiological monitoring and the assessment of dose, and the two NUREGs provide the specific implementation details for effluent and environmental monitoring programs.
RG 1.113, Estimating Aquatic Dispersion of Effluents from Accidental and Routine Reactor Releases for the Purpose of Implementing Appendix I (Ref. 17), describes general approaches for the analysis of releases of liquid effluents into surface water bodies.


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Regulatory Guide 1.21 addresses the measuring, evaluating, and reporting of effluent releases, solid radioactive waste, and public dose from nuclear power plants.  The guide describes the important concepts in planning and implementing an effluent and solid radioactive waste program.  Concepts covered include meteorology, release points, monitoring methods, identification of principal radionuclides, unrestricted area boundaries, continuous and batch release methods, representative sampling, composite sampling, radioactivity measurements, decay corrections, quality assurance (QA), solid radioactive waste shipments, and public dose assessments.
RG 1.184, "Decommissioning of Nuclear Power Reactors" (Ref. 18), provides guidance that during decommissioning, Technical Specifications require operational procedures for the control of effluent releases and submittal of annual effluent reports as specified by 10 CFR 50.36a.


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Regulatory Guide 4.1 addresses the environmental monitoring program. The guide discusses principles and concepts important to environmental monitoring at nuclear power plants.  The regulatory guide addresses the need for preoperational and background characterization of radioactivity.  It also addresses environmental monitoring (both on-site and offsite), including the exposure pathways. The guide defines the exposure pathways, the program scope of sampling media and sampling frequency, and  
RG 1.185, Standard Format and Content for Post-Shutdown Decommissioning Activities Report (Ref. 19), identifies information licensees should provide to NRC and the public of the licensees expected decommissioning activities and schedule.


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Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 7 the methods of comparing environmental measurements to effluent releases in the Annual Radiological Environmental Operating Report.
RG 4.1, Programs for Monitoring Radioactivity in the Environs of Nuclear Power Plants (Ref. 20), describes acceptable programs for establishing and conducting an environmental monitoring program.


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Regulatory Guide 4.15 provides the basic principles of QA in all types of radiological monitoring programs for effluent streams and the environment.  The guide addresses all types of licenses including nuclear power plants.  The guide provides the principles for structuring organizational lines of communication and responsibility, using qualified personnel, implementing standard operating procedures, defining data quality objectives (DQOs), performing quality control (QC) checking for sampling and analysis, auditing the process, and taking corrective actions.
RG 4.13, Environmental DosimetryPerformance Specifications, Testing, and Data Analysis (Ref. 21), provides specifications for environmental dosimetry and methods of analyzing dosimetry to determine dose to members of the public.


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NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 provide the detailed implementation guidance by describing effluent and environmental monitoring programs. The NUREGs specify effluent monitoring and environmental sampling requirements, surveillance requirements for effluent monitors, types of monitors and samplers, sampling and analysis frequencies, types of analysis and radionuclides analyzed, lower limits of detection (LLDs), specific environmental media to be sampled, and reporting and program evaluation and revision.
RG 4.15, Quality Assurance for Radiological Monitoring Programs (Inception Through Normal Operations to License Termination)Effluent Streams and the Environment (Ref. 22), describes design and implementation programs to ensure the quality of the results of measurements of radioactive materials in the effluents from, and environment outside of, facilities that process, use, or store radioactive materials.


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Regulatory Guide 1.109 provides the detailed implementation guidance for demonstrating that radioactive effluents conform to the As Low as is Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) design objectives of
RG 4.20, Constraint on Releases of Airborne Radioactive Materials to the Environment for Licensees other than Power Reactors (Ref. 23), provides guidance for meeting the constraint on airborne emissions of radioactive material as described in 10 CFR 20.1101(d).  
10 CFR 50, Appendix I.  The regulatory guide describes calculational models and parameters for estimating dose from effluent releases, including the dispersion of the effluent in the atmosphere and different water bodies.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 6
Note:  The dose to occupational workers, including contributions from activities associated with effluent programs (such as low-level waste processing, storage and shipping, as well as dose from handling resins and filters for gaseous and liquid radioactive waste) is occupational dose associated with the licensed operation and is not included in RG 1.21.


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The NRC issues regulatory guides to describe to the public methods that the staff considers acceptable for use in implementing specific parts of the agencys regulations, to explain techniques that the staff uses in evaluating specific problems or postulated accidents, and to provide guidance to applicants.
RG 4.25, Assessment of Abnormal Radionuclide Discharges in Groundwater to the Unrestricted Area at Nuclear Power Plant Sites (Ref. 24), describes an approach that is acceptable for use in assessing abnormal discharges of radionuclides in groundwater from the subsurface to the unrestricted area at nuclear power plant sites.


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Regulatory guides are not substitutes for regulations, and compliance with them is not required.  The methods and practices outlined in regulatory guides are one acceptable method for implementing the regulations.  Nuclear power reactor licensees may continue to use Revision 1 of Regulatory Guide 1.21, Measuring, Evaluating, and Reporting Radioactivity in Solid Waste and Releases of Radioactive Materials in Liquid and Gaseous Effluents from Light-water Cooled Nuclear Power Plants, issued June 1974, or may adopt other procedures or practices that provide for the measuring, evaluating, and reporting of radioactive material in liquid and gaseous effluents and solid waste.
Generic Letter (GL) 89-01, Implementation of Programmatic Controls for Radiological Effluent Technical Specifications in the Administrative Controls Section of Technical Specifications and the Relocation of Procedural Details to the Offsite Dose Calculation Manual or Process Control Program, dated January 31, 1989 (Ref. 25), provides guidance that the programmatic controls of the (former) Radiological Effluent Technical Specifications can be implemented in the Administrative Controls section of the TS and that the procedural details can be relocated to the licensee-controlled Offsite Dose Calculation Manual (ODCM) and Process Control Program (PCP) or equivalent documents.


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2. Objectives of the Radiological Effluent Control Program  
NUREG-0133, "Preparation of Radiological Effluent Technical Specifications for Nuclear Power Plants" issued October 1978 (Ref. 26), is one of the bases documents for the Radioactive Effluent Controls Program in Standard Technical Specifications (section 5.5.4).


*
The requirements for the radiological effluent control program appear in 10 CFR Part 20 and the technical specifications which are part of a license, including limitations on dose conforming to
NUREG-0016, Revision 1 and Revision 2, Calculation of Releases of Radioactive Materials in Gaseous and Liquid Effluents from Boiling-Water Reactors (GALE-BWR 3.2 Code), issued January 1979 and July 2020, respectively (Ref. 27), is a computerized mathematical model for calculating the release of radioactive materials in gaseous and liquid effluents from boiling-water reactors (BWRs).  
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I.  In addition, a facilitys technical specifications describe specific requirements. These regulatory requirements, in conjunction with the regulatory positions provided in this guide, can be used as a basis for establishing the radiological effluent control program. The radiological effluent control program for a nuclear power plant has the following six basic objectives: 


*
1.
NUREG-0017, Revision 1 and Revision 2, Calculation of Releases of Radioactive Materials in Gaseous and Liquid Effluents from Pressurized Water Reactors (GALE-PWR 3.2 Code), issued April 1985 and July 2020, respectively (Ref. 28), is a computerized mathematical model for calculating the release of radioactive materials in gaseous and liquid effluents from pressurized-water reactors (PWRs).  


*
ensure that effluent instrumentation has the functional capability to measure and analyze
NUREG-0543, Methods for Demonstrating LWR Compliance with the EPA Uranium Fuel Cycle Standard (CFR Part 190), issued January 1980 (Ref. 29), explains the rationale for using Appendix I to demonstrate compliance with 40 CFR 190 and methods for demonstrating compliance when radioactive effluents exceed Appendix I numerical guidance.


*
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 8 effluent discharges,
NUREG-0737, Clarification of TMI Action Plan Requirements, issued November 1980
(Ref. 30), provides specific items that were approved by the NRC Commission following the accident at Three Mile Island Nuclear Station (TMI) for implementation at reactors.


*
2.
NUREG-1301, Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Guidance:  Standard Radiological Effluent Controls for Pressurized Water Reactors, issued April 1991 (Ref. 31), provides the PWR effluent controls that may be removed from technical specifications and incorporated into the licensees ODCM (or equivalent).  


*
ensure that effluent treatment systems are used to reduce effluent discharges to ALARA
NUREG-1302, Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Guidance: Standard Radiological Effluent Controls for Boiling Water Reactors, issued April 1991 (Ref. 32), provides the BWR effluent controls that may be removed from technical specifications and incorporated into the licensees ODCM (or equivalent).
levels,   


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 7
3.
*
NUREG-1575, Rev. 1, Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation Manual (MARSSIM), issued August 2000 (Ref. 33), provides information on planning, conducting, evaluating, and documenting building surface and surface soil final status radiological surveys for demonstrating compliance with dose or risk-based regulations or standards.


*
establish instantaneous release rate limitations on the concentrations of radioactive material,  
NUREG-1576, Multi-Agency Radiological Laboratory Analytical Protocols Manual, issued July 2004 (Ref.  34), provides guidance for the planning, implementation, and assessment of projects that require the laboratory analysis of radionuclides.


*
4.
NUREG-1757, Volume 2, Revision 1, Consolidated Decommissioning Guidance:
Characterization, Survey, and Determination of Radiological Criteria, issued September 2006 (Ref. 35), provides guidance on compliance with 10 CFR Part 20, Subpart E - Radiological Criteria for License Termination.


*
limit the annual and quarterly doses or dose commitment to members of the public in liquid and gaseous effluents to unrestricted areas,  
NUREG-1940, RASCAL 4: Description of Models and Methods, issued December 2012 (Ref. 36), provides a description of an emergency response consequence assessment tool including models and methods for source term calculations, atmospheric dispersion and deposition, and dose calculations.


*
5.
NUREG-1940, Supplement 1, RASCAL 4.3:  Description of Models and Methods, issued May 2015 (Ref. 37), describes the Radiological Assessment System for Consequence Analysis (RASCAL) models and methods for source term calculations, atmospheric dispersion and deposition, and dose calculations for accident analysis.


*
measure, evaluate, and report the quantities of radioactivity in gaseous effluents, liquid effluents, and solid radioactive waste, and
NUREG/CR-6948, Integrated Ground-Water Monitoring Strategy for NRC-Licensed Facilities and Sites, issued November 2007 (Ref. 38), presents a framework for assessing what, where, when, and how to monitor contamination in groundwater.


*
6.
NUREG/CR-6805, A Comprehensive Strategy of Hydrogeology Modeling and Uncertainty Analysis for Nuclear Facilities and Sites, issued July 2003 (Ref. 39), describes a strategy for a systematic and comprehensive approach to hydrogeologic conceptualization, model development, and predictive uncertainty analysis.


Purpose of Regulatory Guides 
evaluate the dose to members of the public.


The NRC issues RGs to describe methods that are acceptable to the staff for implementing specific parts of the agencys regulations, to explain techniques that the staff uses in evaluating specific issues or postulated events, and to describe information that the staff needs in its review of applications for permits and licenses. RGs are not NRC regulations and compliance with them is not required.
The Annual Radioactive Effluent Release Report (ARERR), submitted before May 1 (unless a licensing basis exists for a different submittal date), and the Annual Radiological Environmental Operating Report (AREOR) submitted annually by May 15 (unless a licensing basis exists for a different submittal date), are used to demonstrate compliance with the facilitys technical specifications for the radioactive effluent control program. The reports demonstrate the following: 


Methods and solutions that differ from those set forth in RGs are acceptable if supported by a basis for the issuance or continuance of a permit or license by the Commission.
1.


Paperwork Reduction Act  
effectiveness of effluent controls and measurement of the environmental impact of radioactive materials,  


This RG provides voluntary guidance for implementing the mandatory information collections in
2.
10 CFR Parts 20, 50, 52, 72, that are subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501 et.


seq.). These information collections were approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB),
compliance with the design objectives and limiting conditions for operation required to meet the ALARA criteria in Appendix I to 10 CFR Part 50,
approval numbers 3150-0014, 3150-0011, 3150-0151, and 3150-0132, respectively. Send comments regarding this information collection to the FOIA, Library, and Information Collections Branch (T6- A10M), U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC 20555-0001, or by e-mail to


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 8 Infocollects.Resource@nrc.gov, and to the OMB reviewer at:  OMB Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (3150-0014, 3150-0011, 3150-0151, and 3150-0132), Attn: Desk Officer for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, 725 17th Street, NW Washington, DC20503; e- mail: 
3.
oira_submission@omb.eop.gov.


Public Protection Notification  
relationship between quantities of radioactive material discharged in effluents and resultant radiation dose to individuals,  


The NRC may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless the document requesting or requiring the collection displays a currently valid OMB
4.
control number.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 9 TABLE OF CONTENTS
compliance with the radiation dose limits to members of the public established by the NRC and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and 


==A. INTRODUCTION==
5.
.................................................................................................................................. 1


==B. DISCUSSION==
compliance with the effluent reporting requirements of 10 CFR 50.36a.
....................................................................................................................................... 11 Reason for Revision................................................................................................................................ 11 Background ............................................................................................................................................. 11 Objectives of the Radiological Effluent Controls Program .................................................................... 12 C.  STAFF REGULATORY GUIDANCE ................................................................................................. 15
1.


Effluent Monitoring .................................................................................................................... 15
Licensees may also, if they choose to do so, use the format specified in this regulatory guide for
1.1 Effluent Monitoring Programs ................................................................................................ 15
10 CFR 72.44(d) ISFSI effluent reports. However, the ISFSI effluent reporting requirement of
1.2 Release Points for Effluent Monitoring .................................................................................. 15
10 CFR 72.44(d) is not normally satisfied by inclusion as part of the Annual Radioactive Effluent Release Report (ARERR) since the reporting dates may conflict. If the dates are coincident, or can be met with a single report, licensees may use the ARERR to fulfill the 10 CFR 72.44(d) reporting requirements provided a copy is submitted as specified in 10 CFR 72.44(d)(3).
1.3 Monitoring a Significant Release Point .................................................................................. 16
1.4 Monitoring a Less-Significant Release Point .......................................................................... 16
1.5 Monitoring Leaks and Spills ................................................................................................... 17
1.6 Monitoring Continuous Releases of Noble Gases .................................................................. 19
1.7 Monitoring Batch Releases ..................................................................................................... 20
1.8 Principal Radionuclides for Effluent Monitoring ................................................................... 20
1.9 Carbon-14 ............................................................................................................................... 22
1.10  
Return/Reuse of Previously Discharged Radioactive Effluents .............................................. 23
1.11 Abnormal Releases and Abnormal Discharges ....................................................................... 23
2.


Effluent Sampling ....................................................................................................................... 25
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 9
2.1 Representative Sampling ......................................................................................................... 25
2.2 Sampling Liquid Radioactive Waste ....................................................................................... 25
2.3 Sampling Gaseous Radioactive Waste .................................................................................... 25
2.4 Sampling Bias ......................................................................................................................... 26
2.5 Composite Sampling ............................................................................................................... 26
2.6 Sample Preparation and Preservation...................................................................................... 26
2.7 Short-Lived Radionuclides and Decay Corrections ................................................................ 26
3.


Effluent Dispersion (Meteorology and Hydrology) .................................................................... 27
==C. REGULATORY POSITION==
3.1 Meteorological Data ................................................................................................................ 27
1. Effluent Monitoring 
3.2 Atmospheric Dispersion (Transport and Diffusion) ............................................................... 27
3.3 Release Height ........................................................................................................................ 28
3.4 Aquatic Dispersion (Surface Waters)...................................................................................... 28
3.5 Spills and Leaks to the Ground Surface .................................................................................. 28
3.6 Spills and Leaks to Groundwater ............................................................................................ 29
4.


Quality Assurance ....................................................................................................................... 31
1.1 Guidance for Effluent Monitoring 
4.1 Quality Assurance Programs ................................................................................................... 31
4.2 Quality Control Checks ........................................................................................................... 31
4.3 Surveillance Frequencies ........................................................................................................ 31
4.4 Procedures ............................................................................................................................... 31
4.5 Calibration of Laboratory Equipment and Routine Effluent Radiation Monitors ................... 32
4.6 Calibration of Measuring and Test Equipment ....................................................................... 32
4.7 Calibration Frequency ............................................................................................................. 32
4.8 Measurement Uncertainty ....................................................................................................... 33
4.9 Calibration of Accident-Range Radiation Monitors and Accident-Range Effluent Monitors 33
5.


Dose Assessments for Individual Members of the Public .......................................................... 35
Monitoring programs should be established to identify and quantify principal radionuclides in effluents.  NUREG-1301 (for pressurized-water reactors (PWRs)) and NUREG-1302 (for boiling-water reactors (BWRs)) specify the generic controls and surveillance requirements, including the frequency, duration, and methods of measurement. These NUREGs provide specifications for LLDs, requirements for batch releases and continuous releases, sampling frequencies, analysis frequencies and timelines, and composite sample requirements. Site-specific radiological effluent control programs may differ from the generic NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 guidance provided there is either a documented evaluation or justification for such deviations as part of an offsite dose calculation manual (ODCM) authorized change, or if submitted as part of the original ODCM in accordance with Generic Letter 89-01, Implementation of Programmatic and Procedural Controls for Radiological Effluent Technical Specifications, (Ref. 11)
5.1 Bounding Assessments ........................................................................................................... 36
dated January 31, 1989, and approved by the NRC.
5.2 Individual Members of the Public ........................................................................................... 36
5.3 Occupancy Factors .................................................................................................................. 37
5.4 
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, Design Objectives and Limiting Conditions for Operation ..... 37


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 10
1.2 Release Points for Effluent Monitoring 
5.5 
10 CFR 20.1301(a) NRC dose limits for individual members of the public........................... 37
5.6  
10 CFR 20.1301(e) EPA Environmental Radiation Standards for the Uranium Fuel Cycle .. 38
5.7 Dose Assessments for 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I ............................................................... 39
5.8 Dose Assessments for 10 CFR 20.1301(e) ............................................................................. 40
5.9 Dose Calculations ................................................................................................................... 41
6.


Solid Radioactive Waste Released from the Unit ....................................................................... 41
The ODCM should identify the facilitys significant release points (see glossary) used to quantify liquid and gaseous effluents discharged to the unrestricted area. For those release points containing contributions from two or more inputs (or systems), it is preferable to monitor each major input (or system)
7.
individually to avoid dilution effects, which may impede or prevent radionuclide identification. NUREG-
1301 and NUREG-1302 contain detailed guidance for the content and format of a licensees ODCM. For purposes of effluent and direct radiation monitoring, the ODCM should list and/or describe the following: 


Reporting Errata in Effluent Release Reports ............................................................................. 42
1.
7.1 Examples of Small Errors ....................................................................................................... 42
7.2 Reporting Small Errors ........................................................................................................... 42
7.3 Examples of Large Errors ....................................................................................................... 43
7.4 Reporting Large Errors ........................................................................................................... 43
8.


Changes to Effluent and Environmental Programs ..................................................................... 44
Significant release points include stacks, vents, and liquid radioactive waste discharge points, among others.
9.


Format and Content of the Annual Radioactive Effluent Release Report ...................................... 45
2.
9.1 Gaseous Effluents ................................................................................................................... 45
9.2 Liquid Effluents ...................................................................................................................... 47
9.3 Solid Waste Shipments Released from the Unit (per Standard Technical Specifications) ..... 48
9.4 Dose Assessments ................................................................................................................... 49
9.5 Supplemental Information ....................................................................................................... 49


==D. IMPLEMENTATION==
Other release points should be listed in the ODCM if they are not normally classified as one of the significant release points but could become a significant release point based on expected operational occurrences (e.g., primary to secondary leakage for PWRs or failed fuel). This list does not need to be exhaustive or all-inclusive but instead should demonstrate that the licensee has reasonably anticipated expected operational occurrences and their effects on radioactive discharges. Examples may include main steam line safety valves, steam-driven feedwater pumps, turbine building sumps, containment ice condensers, leachate seepage from unlined ponds, or evaporative releases from ponds in the restricted or controlled areas.
........................................................................................................................... 53 GLOSSARY ............................................................................................................................................... 54 REFERENCES ........................................................................................................................................... 63 BIBLIOGRAPHY ....................................................................................................................................... 70
APPENDIX ATABLES ............................................................................................................................ 1


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 11
3.


==B. DISCUSSION==
The site environs map should show the following:
Reason for Revision


This revision of RG 1.21 (Revision 3):
a.


*
significant release points, b.
Provides guidance and acceptable methods for calibration of accident-range radiation monitors,  


*
boundaries of the restricted area and the controlled area (per 10 CFR Part 20
Revises guidance on recommendations for updating long-term, annual average /Q and D/Q
definitions),  
values, 
c.


*
boundary of the unrestricted area for liquid effluents (e.g., at the end of the pipe or entrance to a public waterway), and d.
Clarifies reporting requirements for low level radioactive waste (LLW) shipments, specifically that the report includes the waste shipped from the unit (plant site), and that waste classification does not need to be reported when shipped from the unit (plant site) to a waste processor, 


*
boundary of the unrestricted area for gaseous effluents (e.g., the site boundary).  
Clarifies the existing guidance in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 that environmental monitoring for iodine (I) -131 in drinking water should be performed if a prospective dose evaluation of the annual thyroid dose from I-131 to a person in any age group from the drinking water route of exposure is greater than one mrem.


*
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 10
Clarifies the existing process as currently described in Technical Specifications for making changes to effluent and environmental programs, and, 


*
4.
Incorporates the existing Regulatory Issue Summary 2008-03, Return/Reuse of Previously Discharged Radioactive Effluents (Ref. 40).  


Background
Dose calculation methodologies should be described for exposure pathways and routes of exposure that are identified in Regulatory Guide 1.109, if applicable.


Six basic documents contain the primary regulatory guidance for implementing the
5.
10 CFR Part 20 and 10 CFR Part 50 regulatory requirements and plant technical specifications related to monitoring and reporting of radioactive material in effluents and environmental media, solid radioactive waste shipments, and the public dose that results from licensed operation of a nuclear power plant: 


(1) RG 1.21, Measuring, Evaluating, and Reporting Radioactive Material in Liquid and Gaseous Effluents and Solid Waste,  
Dose calculation methodologies for direct radiation should be described if necessary (e.g.,
when assessing direct radiation from the facility). The methodology should include background subtraction, or if appropriate, extrapolation of radiation measurements to points of interest (e.g., to the individual members of the public likely to receive the highest dose). 


(2) RG 4.1, Programs for Monitoring Radioactivity in the Environs of Nuclear Power Plants,
The unrestricted area may be defined separately for each of the following:  (1) liquid effluents,
(2) gaseous effluents, and (3) if appropriate, for other radiological controls such as direct radiation.


(3) RG 4.15, Quality Assurance for Radiological Monitoring Programs (Inception Through Normal Operations to License Termination)Effluent Streams and the Environment, 
1.3 Monitoring a Significant Release Point


(4) RG 1.109, Calculation of Annual Doses to Man from Routine Releases of Reactor Effluents for the Purpose of Demonstrating Compliance with 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I,  
A significant release point is any location, from which radioactive material is released, that contributes greater than 1 percent of the activity discharged from all the release points for a particular type of effluent considered.  Regulatory Guide 1.109 lists the three types of effluent as (1) liquid effluents, (2)
noble gases discharged to the atmosphere, and (3) all other radionuclides discharged to the atmosphere.


(5) NUREG-1301, Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Guidance: Standard Radiological Effluent Controls for Pressurized Water Reactors, and  
The ODCM should list significant release points.  Significant release points should be monitored in accordance with the ODCM.  If a new significant release point is identified and is not listed in the ODCM, licensees should (1) establish an appropriate sampling interval (e.g., in site-specific procedures)
and (2) update the ODCM within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., yearly). Releases from a significant release point should be assessed based on an appropriate combination of actual sample analysis results, radiation monitor responses, flow rate indications, tank level indications, and system pressure indications as necessary to ensure that the amount of radioactive material released, and the corresponding doses, are not substantially underestimated (see 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, Section III, Implementation).  If activity is detected when monitoring a significant release point, the radionuclides detected should be reported in the effluent totals (including those with half-lives less than 8 days) in the ARERR (i.e., in Table A-1 or Table A-2), provided that the amount discharged is significant to the three-digit exponential format required for the ARERR.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 12
1.4  Monitoring a Less-Significant Release Point


(6) NUREG-1302, Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Guidance: Standard Radiological Effluent Controls for Boiling Water Reactors.
NUREG-1301/1302 provides tables designating sampling and analysis frequencies for release points. Historically these tables together with the guidance from Revision 1 of RG 1.21 provided the sampling and analysis frequencies.  Licensees may continue to use this guidance from NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 and Revision 1 of RG 1.21.  This method of assigning sample frequencies is simple to implement, but in certain cases, it may entail an inappropriately large number of samples for less- significant release points which have no - or extremely low - impact on the parameters reported in the ARERR. As a result, for less-significant release points, licensees may evaluate and assign more appropriate sample frequencies.  If a licensee wishes to deviate from the sample frequencies listed in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302, the licensees evaluation, showing that the effectiveness of the radioactive effluent control program is not reduced, should be maintained in site documentation.


These documents, when used in an integrated manner, provide the basic guidance and implementation details for developing and maintaining effluent and environmental monitoring programs at nuclear power plants. RG 1.21, RG 4.1, RG 4.15, and RG 1.109 specify the guidance for radiological monitoring and the assessment of dose, and NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 provide specific implementation details for the effluent and environmental monitoring programs.
Regardless of the surveillance frequencies, if activity is detected when monitoring a less-significant release point, the licensee must (per 10 CFR Part 50.36a and 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, Section III.A.1) report the cumulative activity in the effluent totals (i.e., in Table A-1 or Table A-2) in the ARERR (provided that the amount discharged is significant to the three-digit exponential format required for the ARERR).  


RG 1.21 addresses the measuring, evaluating, and reporting of effluent releases, solid radioactive waste shipments, and public dose from nuclear power plants.  The guide describes the important concepts in planning and implementing an effluent and solid radioactive waste program.  Concepts covered include meteorology, release points, monitoring methods, identification of principal radionuclides, unrestricted area boundaries, continuous and batch release methods, representative sampling, composite sampling, radioactivity measurements, decay corrections, quality assurance (QA), solid radioactive waste shipments, and public dose assessments.  The dose to occupational workers, including contributions from activities associated with effluent programs (such as LLW processing, storage, and shipping, as well as dose from handling resins and filters for gaseous and liquid radioactive waste), is occupational dose associated with the licensed operation and is not included in RG 1.21.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 11


RG 4.1 addresses the environmental monitoring programThe guide discusses principles and concepts important to environmental monitoring at nuclear power plantsThe RG provides guidance on both the preoperational and operational Radiological Environmental Monitoring Programs (REMP) for the routinely monitored exposure pathways (inhalation, ingestion, and direct radiation).  The guide defines the sampling media and sampling frequency, and the methods of comparing environmental measurements to effluent releases in the Annual Radiological Environmental Operating Report (AREOR).  
Site documentation should identify less-significant release points, to the extent reasonable, but it is not necessary to list all possible release points in site documentation. Releases from a less-significant release point may be assessed (see section 5.1, Bounding Assessments) to the extent reasonable using assumptions and bounding calculations (in lieu of, or in addition to, sampling and analysis)When plant conditions change, and such changes may reasonably affect the status of a less-significant release point (e.g., significant change in primary-to-secondary leakage in PWRs or substantial cross-contamination between systems), sampling and analysis of the affected less-significant release points should be conductedThese sample results should be evaluated to (1) confirm the continued validity of the bounding calculations (if used) regarding effluent accountability and (2) determine the impact (if any) on effluent accountability.  The guidance in this regulatory guide regarding monitoring less-significant release points for purposes of accountability (via the ARERR) does not replace, supersede, or otherwise modify any responsibility for monitoring systems normally not contaminated, as outlined in NRC Inspection and Enforcement (IE) Bulletin 80-10, Contamination of Nonradioactive System and Resulting Potential for Unmonitored, Uncontrolled Release of Radioactivity to Environment, dated May 6, 1980 (Ref.  12).  


RG 4.15 provides the basic principles of QA in all types of radiological monitoring programs for effluent streams and the environmentThe guide provides principles for structuring organizational lines of communication and responsibility, using qualified personnel, implementing standard operating procedures, defining data quality objectives (DQOs), performing quality control (QC) checking for sampling and analysis, auditing the process, and taking corrective actions.
1.5 Monitoring Leaks and Spills


RG 1.109 provides the detailed implementation guidance for demonstrating that radioactive effluents conform to ALARA design objectives of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I.  The RG describes calculational models and parameters for estimating dose from effluent releases, including the dispersion of the effluent in the atmosphere and surface water bodies.
An area where an unplanned release occurred into the on-site environs (e.g., a leak or spill) should be identified as an impacted area for decommissioning purposes in accordance with NUREG-1757, Consolidated Decommissioning Guidance, issued September 2006 (Ref.  13). A leak or spill should be assessed to obtain the necessary information for the ARERR as specified in Regulatory Position 8.5.1, Abnormal Releases or Abnormal Discharges (see glossary).  Leaks or spills to the ground will be diluted on contact with soil and water in the environment.  Samples of the undiluted liquid (from the source of the leak or spill) and samples of the affected soil (or surface water or ground water) should be analyzed as soon as practical.  In some instances, sampling, particularly soil sampling, may not be practical if the leak occurred in inaccessible areas, or if there are extenuating considerations.  In this respect, ground water monitoring may be used as a surrogate for soil sampling.  If sampling is not practical, the 10 CFR 50.75(g)
records should describe why sampling was not conducted (e.g., the area was inaccessible or there were safety considerations).  The location and estimated volume of the leak or spill should be recorded to identify the extent of the impacted area and predicted size or extent of the contaminant plume.  If a spill is promptly remediated (e.g., within 48 hours) and if subsequent surveys of the remediated area indicate no detectable residual radioactivity remaining in the soil or ground water (see paragraph below), then, for purposes of reporting discharges in the ARERR, there was no liquid discharge to the unrestricted area, and the spill need not be reported in the ARERR.  However, the decommissioning file should be updated to include a description of the event as specified by 10 CFR 50.75(g).  Licensees should review the decommissioning files before generating the ARERR to ensure that the ARERR includes the necessary information regarding leaks and spills.


NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 provide the detailed implementation guidance by describing effluent and environmental monitoring programsThese NUREGs provide guidance on meeting effluent monitoring and environmental sampling requirements, surveillance requirements for effluent monitors, types of monitors and samplers, sampling and analysis frequencies, types of analysis and radionuclides analyzed, lower limits of detection (LLDs), specific environmental media to be sampled, and reporting and program evaluation and revision.
When evaluating areas that have been remediated, the licensee should survey for residual radioactivity.  There may be times when the licensee wants to verify that an area contains no residual radioactivityThere is existing regulatory guidance and information on analytical detection capabilities.


Objectives of the Radiological Effluent Controls Program  
Licensees should ensure that surveys are appropriate and reasonable (as defined in 10 CFR 20.1501). 
Licensees should generally ensure that surveys are conducted using the appropriate sensitivity levels (e.g., refer to the environmental LLDs in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302, Table 4.12-1, Detection Capabilities for Environmental Sample Analysis, or LLDs determined by using the methodology outlined in NUREG-1576, Multi-Agency Radiological Laboratory Analytical Protocols Manual, (MARLAP)
issued July 2004 (Ref. 14)). Additionally, licensees should apply plant-process-system knowledge when evaluating leaks and spills.  For example, consider a hypothetical case of a leak in a condensate storage


The requirements for the radiological effluent control program are in 10 CFR Part 20 and the technical specifications that are part of a license, including limitations on dose conforming to  
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 12 tank.  Assume that the tanks contents were analyzed 30 days before the leak and determined to contain
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix IIn addition, a facilitys technical specifications describe specific regulatory
1.2x10-6 microcuries per milliliter (uCi/mL) of tritium (1,200 picocuries/liter (pCi/L)).  Additionally, assume that historical records indicate that the tank contained detectable levels of tritium about 50 percent of the time, and that tritium concentrations never exceeded 2,000 pCi/L of tritium.  In this example, the licensee discovers a leak in the tank and is able to fix the leak after 400 gallons (1,500 liters) of water leaked to the ground surface.  The licensee confirms the presence of tritium by sampling the tank contents and/or the wetted soil.  Based on those results, the licensee chooses to remediate the affected soil and excavates the affected soil and places the removed soil into suitable containers.  The licensee then samples undisturbed soil from several locations within the excavated area and analyzes the soil for tritium.  The licensee adjusts the analytical method and the analytical sensitivity to allow detection of (the equivalent of)
1,000 pCi/L of tritium in the water fraction.  The licensee analyzes the soil (for gamma activity) and the water fraction of soil (for tritium activity) from the excavated area and detects no radionuclidesThe licensee also confirms radioactive material did not reach the water table by verifying the excavated area is above the water table.  The NRC would find this to be an acceptable method for the licensee to use in concluding that there is no detectable residual radioactivity from the spill listed in this example.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 13 requirementsLicensees can use these regulatory requirements and the RG 1.21 regulatory guidance as a basis for establishing the radiological effluent control programThe radiological effluent control program for a nuclear power plant has the following six basic objectives, which are also reflected in
This regulatory guide provides guidance regarding information the licensees should provide in the ARERR.  In that context, when leaks and spills of radioactive material are identified, prompt response and timely actions should be taken to the extent reasonable to (1) evaluate radiological conditions and
10 CFR 50.36a and in site-specific Technical Specifications:
(2) ensure proper reporting of materials discharged off site. To realize these two goals, it may be necessary to isolate the leak or spill at the source, prevent the spread of the leak or spill, and remediate the affected area (if the licensee deems remediation to be reasonable and necessary)For leaks and spills involving the discharge of radioactive material to the unrestricted area, the dose to members of the public from the leak or spill should be evaluated using realistic or bounding exposure scenarios. (See Attachment 6 to SECY-
03-0069 for more information on use of realistic scenarios.) However, for leaks or spills that occur on site, a realistic dose assessment to an offsite member of the public may become complicated especially if (1) no radioactive material has entered the unrestricted area and (2) there are no members of the public on site.


*
For leaks and spills, licensees should perform surveys that are reasonable to evaluate the potential radiological hazard (as described in 10 CFR 20.1501).  As a result, for leaks and spills, licensees may choose to use bounding assessments to estimate the potential hazard.  For example, if a leak occurs on site and radioactive material is released at or below the ground surface, the licensee may choose to assess the potential hazard by assuming that a conservatively large (e.g., bounding) volume of water is part of an assumed exposure pathway (e.g., drinking water).  Such assumptions would allow the licensee to assess the potential hazard to a hypothetical individual member of the public. A hazard assessment of this sort would be appropriate for inclusion in the supplemental information section of the ARERR.  In such cases where there is no real exposure pathway to a member of the public, the licensee should indicate that the hazard assessment is a bounding estimate of the dose to a hypothetical individual member of the public and no actual exposure was received by a real individual member of the public.
ensure that effluent instrumentation has the functional capability to measure and analyze effluent discharges,   


*
If licensees choose to notify local authorities of spills or leaks (e.g., because of local ordinances or local and State government agreements), the licensee should review the reporting requirements of
ensure that effluent treatment systems are used to reduce effluent discharges to ALARA
10 CFR 50.72(b)(xi) and information in NUREG-1022, Event Reporting Guidelines 10 CFR 50.72 and
levels,
50.73, (Ref. 15), for applicability.  In such situations, licensees should ensure effective communication using the guidance provided in NUREG/BR-0308, Effective Risk Communication, (Ref. 16), especially with respect to ensuring that the risk is described in the appropriate context.  In general, licensees should notify the NRC when significant public concern is raised, in accordance with 10 CFR 50.72(b)(xi). 


*
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 13 Although the licensee may choose to use its problem identification and resolution program (corrective action program) to document the evaluation of the spill or leak, appropriate documentation should be placed in, or cross-referenced to, the decommissioning files as required by 10 CFR 50.75(g). 
establish instantaneous release-rate limitations on the concentrations of radioactive material,


*
Remediation should be evaluated and implemented as appropriate based on licensee evaluations and decision-making.  Evaluation factors should include (1) the location and accessibility, (2) the concentrations of radionuclides and extent of the residual radioactivity, (3) the efficacy of monitored natural attenuation, (4) the volume of the release, (5) the mobility of the radionuclides, (6) the depth of the water table and (7) whether significant residual radioactivity (see glossary) is expected at the time of decommissioning.  Since the contaminants, concentrations, and extent of contamination are expected to vary over time or plant life (either increase based on anticipated future leaks and spills or decrease based on remediation or monitored natural attenuation), no one set of numerical values defines significant residual radioactivity. However, licensees may make remediation decisions based on their expectations of being able to meet the decommissioning criteria of 10 CFR 20.1402, Radiological Criteria for Unrestricted Use, at the anticipated time of decommissioning.
limit the annual and quarterly doses or dose commitment to members of the public in liquid and gaseous effluents to unrestricted areas,   


*
Information that may be useful in this decision-making includes (1) NUREG-1757, Volume 1, Appendix H, Memorandum of Understanding between the Environmental Protection Agency and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, (2) NUREG-1757, Volume 2, Derived Concentration Guideline Levels in Table H.1, and (3) the derived concentration guideline levels that have been authorized for decommissioned nuclear power plants.  For a more detailed analysis, licensees may use the RESRAD
measure, evaluate, and report the quantities of radioactivity in gaseous effluents, liquid effluents, and solid radioactive waste shipments, and
computer codes available from Argonne National Laboratory (Refs. 17, 18, and 19) or equivalent.


*
1.6  Monitoring Continuous Releases 
evaluate the dose to members of the public.


As required by technical specifications, Part 50 and Part 52 licensees must submit the Annual Radioactive Effluent Release Report (ARERR) before May 1 and the AREOR by May 15 of each year (unless a licensing basis exists for a different submittal date for one or both reports).  Licensees use these reports to demonstrate compliance with the facilitys technical specifications for the radioactive effluent control program. The reports demonstrate the following: 
For continuous releases, gross radioactivity measurements are often the only practical means of continuous monitoring.  These gross radioactivity measurements are typically used to actuate alarms and terminate (trip) effluent releases, but by themselves, are generally not acceptable for demonstrating compliance with effluent discharge limits.


*
The use of continuously indicating radiation monitoring system results may be combined with sample analyses to more fully characterize and quantify a discharge.  This technique may have particular applicability when (1) a short-term, rapid upscale indication of a process radiation monitor occurs during a release or (2) when there is a desire to verify whether a preliminary grab sample is representative.  In these instances the radiation monitor responses (i.e., the radiation monitor efficiencies) for various radionuclides should be well characterized.
effectiveness of effluent controls and measurement of the environmental impact of radioactive materials,  


*
Grab samples should be collected at scheduled frequencies (see NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 or as approved in Generic Letter 89-01 submittals) to quantify specific radionuclide concentrations and release rates.  The frequency of sample collection and radionuclide analyses should be based on the degree of variance in (1) the magnitude of the discharge and (2) the relative radionuclide composition from an established norm.  Where the magnitude of the discharge and the relative nuclide composition of a continuous release vary significantly over the course of the discharge period, a combination of grab samples and continuous monitor readings can assist in accurately estimating the discharge.  Continuous monitoring data (e.g., chart recorder data), as well as grab sample data, should be reviewed periodically and used to identify this variance from the established norm.  Periodic evaluations should be made between gross radioactivity measurements and grab sample analyses of specific radionuclides.  These evaluations should be used to verify (or modify) the conversion factors that correlate radiation monitor readings and concentrations of radionuclides in effluents.
compliance with the design objectives and limiting conditions for operation required to meet the ALARA criteria in 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I,  


*
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 14
relationship between quantities of radioactive material discharged in effluents and resultant radiation dose to individuals,  


*
1.7  Monitoring Batch Releases 
compliance with the radiation dose limits to members of the public established by the NRC
and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and


*
For batch releases, measurements should be performed to identify principal radionuclides before a release.  In those cases in which an analysis of specific hard-to-detect radionuclides (such as strontium-
compliance with the effluent reporting requirements of 10 CFR 50.36a1.
89/90 and iron-55 in liquid releases) cannot be done before release (see NUREG-1301 and NUREG-
1302), representative samples should be collected for the purpose of subsequent composite analysis.  The composite samples should be analyzed at the scheduled frequencies specified in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 or, for less-significant release points, at the frequencies specified by the licensee.  (See Regulatory Position 1.4.


1 See Section C.9 of this regulatory guide for information regarding use of the ARERR or its format to also meet ISFSI
The use of continuously indicating radiation monitoring system results may be combined with sample analyses to more fully characterize and quantify a discharge.  This technique may have particular applicability when (1) a short-term, rapid upscale indication of a process radiation monitor occurs during a discharge or (2) when there is a desire to verify whether a preliminary grab sample is representative. In these instances the radiation monitor responses (i.e., the radiation monitor efficiencies) for various radionuclides should be well characterized.
effluent reporting requirements in 10 CFR 72.44(d) for specific licenses or imposed by certificate of compliance conditions for general licenses.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 14 Consideration of International Standards2
1.8  Principal Radionuclides for Effluent Monitoring


The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) works with member states and other partners to promote the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technologies. The IAEA develops Safety Requirements and Safety Guides for protecting people and the environment from harmful effects of ionizing radiation. These requirements and guides provide a system of Safety Standards Categories that reflect an international perspective on what constitutes a high level of safety. In developing or updating Regulatory Guides the NRC has considered IAEA Safety Requirements, Safety Guides, and other relevant reports in order to benefit from the international perspectives, pursuant to the Commissions International Policy Statement (Ref. 41) and NRC Management Directive and Handbook 6.6 (Ref. 42).  
During analysis of samples, licensees should apply the appropriate analytical sensitivities to ensure adequate surveys are conducted.  NUREG-1301/1302 provides a list of principal gamma emitters for which an LLD control applies. Historically, this list together with the guidance from Revision 1 of RG
1.21 provided the appropriate sensitivity levels for an analysis. Licensees may continue to use this guidance, which essentially classifies all radionuclides as principal radionuclides, and apply the analytical sensitivity levels (e.g., LLDs) directly from NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 and Revision 1 of RG 1.21.


The following IAEA Safety Standards Series are consistent with the basic safety principles considered in developing this Regulatory Guide: 
This method is simple to implement, but in certain cases, it may entail inappropriately long count times or it may involve alternate (or unnecessary) methods of analysis for low-activity radionuclides with no - or extremely low - dose significance.


*
Although the LLD list from NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 may be used for determination of principal radionuclides, in reality, the principal radionuclides at a site will be dependent on site-specific factors such as (1) the amount of failed fuel, (2) the extent of system leakage, (3) the sophistication of radioactive waste processing equipment, and (4) the level of expertise in operating radioactive waste processing system.
IAEA General Safety Guide (GSG)-8, Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment, issued 2018 (Ref. 43)


*
Since the principal radionuclides will vary from site to site, licensees who wish to deviate from the historical method of determining principal radionuclides (as described above) may adopt a risk-informed approach to identify principal radionuclides (and the associated sensitivity levels) at a site.
IAEA Specific Safety Guide NS-G-3.2, Dispersion of Radioactive Material in Air and Water and Consideration of Population Distribution in Site Evaluation for Nuclear Power Plants, issued 2002 (Ref. 44)


*
This regulatory guide introduces the term principal radionuclide in a risk-informed context.  A
IAEA GSG-9, Regulatory Control of Radioactive Discharges to the Environment, issued
licensee may evaluate the list of principal radionuclides for use at a particular site.  The principal radionuclides may be determined based on their relative contribution to (1) the public dose compared to the 10 CFR 50 Appendix design objectives or (2) the amount of activity discharged compared to other site radionuclides.  Under this concept, radionuclides that have either a significant activity or a significant dose contribution should be monitored in accordance with a predetermined and appropriate analytical sensitivity level (LLD) outlined in a licensees ODCM.  This implementation of primary radionuclides ensures both
2018 (Ref. 45)
(1) radionuclides that are present in relatively large amounts but that contribute very little to dose, and (2)
radionuclides that are present in very small amounts but that have a relatively high contribution to dose are appropriately included in the ARERR.


*
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 15 NOTE:  With respect to principal radionuclides, dose is the measure of risk whereas activity is not.  For example, a relatively large amount of tritium released into a large body of water has little dose significance.
IAEA GSG RS-G-1.8, Environmental and Source Monitoring for Purposes of Radiation Protection, issued 2005 (Ref. 46)


*
If adopting a risk-informed perspective, a radionuclide is considered a principal radionuclide if it contributes either (1) greater than 1 percent of the 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, design objective dose for all radionuclides in the type of effluent being considered, or (2) greater than 1 percent of the activity of all radionuclides in the type of effluent being considered.  Regulatory Guide 1.109 lists the three types of effluent as (1) liquid effluents, (2) noble gases released to the atmosphere, and (3) all other radionuclides released to the atmosphere.  In this context, the term principal radionuclide has special significance with respect to the required sensitivity levels (e.g., LLDs) for an analysis.  The LLDs specified in NUREG-
IAEA Nuclear Energy Series NP-T-3.16, Accident Monitoring Systems for Nuclear Power Plants, issued 2015 (Ref. 47)  
1301/1302 may be used, or LLDs may be determined based on the other methodologies (e.g., as outlined in MARLAP). Once principal radionuclides are identified, they should be monitored in accordance with the sensitivity levels (e.g., LLDs) listed in the ODCM.


*
For radionuclides that are not identified as principal radionuclides, licensee discretion may be applied to the sensitivity of analysis provided that there is no reduction in the effectiveness of the radioactive effluent control program.  If analytical sensitivities are chosen that are different from those in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302, the basis for the deviations should be documented.  For example, data quality objectives (DQOs) and other concepts from Regulatory Guide 4.15, Quality Assurance for Radiological Monitoring Programs (Inception through Normal Operations to License Terminations)
IAEA-TECDOC-482, Prevention and Mitigation of Groundwater Contamination from Radioactive Releases, Vienna, Austria, issued 1988 (Ref. 48)  
Effluent Streams and the Environment, Revision 2, issued July 2007 (Ref. 20), may be useful for determining risk-informed sensitivity levels for an analytical method.


*
If a risk-informed approach is used, principal radionuclides should be determined based on an evaluation over a time period that includes a refueling outage (e.g., one fuel cycle).  A periodic reevaluation should be performed to determine whether the radionuclide mix has changed and/or to identify new principal radionuclides.  If a risk-informed approach is applied to the determination of principal radionuclides, the ODCM becomes the controlling document and specifies the list of principal radionuclides.  If adopting this method, the ODCM should be updated with the list of principal radionuclides within 1 year of their identification.  Licensees are allowed to revise the ODCM in accordance with the ODCM change process as described in the plants technical specifications  (which includes documented evaluations of such changes).  
IAEA Safety Guide No. WS-G-3.1, Remediation Process for Areas Affected by Past Activities and Accidents, Vienna, Austria, issued 2007 (Ref. 49)


*
The concept of principal radionuclides does not reduce the requirement for reporting radionuclides detected in effluents.  In addition to principal radionuclides, other radionuclides detected during routine monitoring of release points should be reported in the radioactive effluent release report and included in dose assessments to members of the public.
IAEA, Management of Waste Containing Tritium and Carbon-14, Technical Report Series Number 421, Vienna, Austria, issued 2004 (Ref. 50)


2 IAEA Safety Requirements and Guides may be found at https://www.iaea.org/ or by writing the International Atomic Energy Agency, P.O. Box 100 Wagramer Strasse 5, A-1400 Vienna, Austria; telephone (+431) 2600-0; fax (+431)
1.9  Carbon-14
2600-7; or e-mail Official.Mail@IAEA.Org. It should be noted that some of the international recommendations do not correspond to the NRC requirements which take precedence over the international guidance.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 15 C.  STAFF REGULATORY GUIDANCE
Carbon-14 (C-14) is a naturally occurring isotope of carbon.  Nuclear weapons testing in the 1950s and 1960s significantly increased the amount of C-14 in the atmosphere.  C-14 is also produced in commercial nuclear reactors, but the amounts produced are much less than those produced naturally or from weapons testing.  Since the NRC published Regulatory Guide 1.21, Revision 1, in 1974, the analytical methods for determining C-14 have improvedCoincidentally the radioactive effluents from commercial nuclear power plants over the same period have decreased to the point that C-14 is likely to be a principal radionuclide (as defined in this document) in gaseous effluents.


1.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 16 C-14 releases in PWRs occur primarily as a mix of organic carbon and carbon dioxide released from the waste gas system.  In BWRs, C-14 releases occur mainly as carbon dioxide in gaseous waste (Ref.  21).  Because the dose contribution of C-14 from liquid radioactive waste is much less than that contributed by gaseous radioactive waste, evaluation of C-14 in liquid radioactive waste is not required.


Effluent Monitoring  
Many documents provide information about the magnitude of C-14 in typical effluents from commercial nuclear power plants (e.g., Refs. 21, 22). Those documents suggest nominal annual releases of C-14 in gaseous effluents are approximately 5 to 7.3 curies from PWRs and between 8 to 9.5 curies from BWRs.


1.1 Effluent Monitoring Programs
Licensees should evaluate whether C-14 is a principal radionuclide for gaseous releases from their facility.


Monitoring programs shall be established to identify and quantify principal radionuclides in effluents in accordance with 10 CFR 50.36a.  NUREG-1301 (for PWRs) and NUREG-1302 (for BWRs)  
10 CFR 50.36a requires that operating procedures be developed for the control of effluents and that quantities of principal radionuclides be reportedThe quantity of C-14 discharged can be estimated by sample measurements or by use of a normalized C-14 source term and scaling factors based on power generation (see National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements Report No. 81, Carbon-14 in the Environment, issued January 1985 (Ref. 23)) or estimated by use of the GALE code from NUREG-
provide guidance on acceptable methods of generic controls and surveillance requirements, including frequency, duration, and methods of measurementThese NUREGs provide acceptable LLDs, guidance on batch releases and continuous releases, sampling frequencies, analysis frequencies and timelines, and composite sample guidanceSite-specific radiological effluent control programs that differ from the generic NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 guidance should be based on a documented evaluation or justification for such deviations as part of an ODCM authorized change, or, if submitted and approved as part of the original ODCM, in accordance with GL 89-01.
0017, Calculation of Releases of Radioactive Materials in Gaseous and Liquid Effluents from Pressurized Water Reactors PWR-GALE Code, April 1985 (Ref. 22)Because the production of C-14 is expected to be relatively constant at a particular site, if sampling is performed for C-14 (instead of estimating C-14 discharges based on calculations from a normalized source term), the sampling frequency may be adjusted to that interval that allows adequate measurement and reporting of effluentsIf estimating C-14 based on scaling factors and fission rates, a precise and detailed evaluation of C-14 is not necessary.  It is not necessary to calculate uncertainties for C-14 or to include C-14 uncertainty in any subsequent calculation of overall uncertainty.


1.2 Release Points for Effluent Monitoring 
1.10  Abnormal Releases and Abnormal Discharges


The ODCM (or equivalent), as required by technical specifications, should identify the facilitys significant release points (see definition in the glossary) used to quantify liquid and gaseous effluents discharged to the unrestricted area.  For those release points containing contributions from two or more inputs (or systems), it is preferable to monitor each major input (or system) individually to avoid dilution effects, which may impede or prevent radionuclide identification.  NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 contain detailed guidance for the content and format of a licensees ODCMFor purposes of effluent and direct radiation monitoring, the ODCM should list and describe the following: 
In the previous revision of the Regulatory Guide 1.21, the terms release and discharge were synonymous.  This regulatory guide uses the term release to describe an effluent from the plant (regardless of where the effluent is deposited), whereas the term discharge is used only to describe an effluent that enters the unrestricted area.  Although the term release includes effluents to either (1) the on-site environs or (2) the unrestricted area, for purposes of this regulatory guide, the use of the term release will generally be reserved for those instances when an effluent is released from the power plant into the on-site environsThe on-site environs in this context encompass locations outside of nuclear power plant systems, structures, and components as described in the final safety analysis report or ODCM.


1. significant release points (see definition in Section 1.3 and in the glossary), which include stacks, vents, and liquid radioactive waste discharge points, among others; 
This is a change in terminology with respect to the definition of abnormal release in Regulatory Guide 1.21, Revision 1, which defined abnormal releases to be from the site boundary.


2. less-significant release points (see definition in Section 1.4 and in the glossary) that are not normally classified as one of the significant release points but could become a significant release point based on expected operational occurrences (e.g., primary to secondary leakage for PWRs or failed fuel)3; 
An abnormal release (see glossary) is an unplanned or uncontrolled release of licensed radioactive material from the plant. Abnormal releases may be categorized as either batch or continuous depending on the circumstances.  By contrast, an abnormal discharge (see glossary) is an unplanned or uncontrolled release of licensed radioactive material to the unrestricted area.  Abnormal discharges may also be categorized as either batch or continuous depending on the circumstances. The distinction between the terms abnormal release and abnormal discharge is important for describing the staff position for measuring, evaluating, and reporting releases and discharges, especially where leaks and spills are involved.


3. the site environs map, which should show each of the following:
That portion of an abnormal release that is discharged to the unrestricted area is reported as a abnormal discharge in the year in which the discharge occurred.  The portion of an abnormal release that remains on site is considered residual radioactivity (see 10 CFR 20) and is documented in accordance with
10 CFR 50.75(g).


a. significant release points,  
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 17


b. boundaries of the restricted area and the controlled area4 (in accordance with
Low-level radioactive system leakage resulting from minor equipment failures and component aging (wear and tear) may be expected to occur as an anticipated part of the plant operation.  If such leakage is captured by, or directed to, a system designed to accept and handle radioactive material including the subsequent planned and controlled discharge of the radioactive material (e.g., as described in the FSAR or ODCM), that evolution is not considered an abnormal release.  Normal system leakage captured by effluent ventilation control systems or sumps is not an abnormal release (provided that, before discharge of the radioactive material, the discharge is planned and controlled).  (See also the definitions of unplanned release and uncontrolled release in the glossary.)  
10 CFR Part 20 definitions),


3 This list does not need to be exhaustive or all-inclusive but should demonstrate that the licensee has reasonably anticipated expected operational occurrences and their effects on radioactive dischargesExamples may include main steam line safety valves, steam-driven feedwater pumps, turbine building sumps, containment ice condensers, leachate seepage from unlined ponds, or evaporative releases from ponds in the restricted or controlled areas.
In certain circumstances, some subjectivity may be associated with the definitions of unplanned release and uncontrolled releaseIn these situations, additional circumstances should be considered to determine if an abnormal release occurred.  A well-designed and documented evaluation of a release point can include an evaluation of the potential for an unplanned or uncontrolled release.  The evaluation can establish bounding criteria that establish a threshold for an abnormal release based on planning and control.  Generally, releases that may reasonably be categorized as both unplanned and uncontrolled should be considered abnormal releases.


4 For ODCMs that also address Part 72 monitoring requirements, the boundaries of the Part 72 controlled area, as defined in 10 CFR 72.3 and meeting the minimum size requirements of 72.106 should be also be shown.
For example, consider an underground pipe that carries radioactive liquid to an outside storage tank.  If this pipe develops a leak, and licensed radioactive material escapes into the surrounding soil, it is considered an abnormal release if some portion or all of the radioactive material remains on site.  This type of leak should be reported as an abnormal release in the next ARERR.  If the licensee predicts (e.g., based on site conceptual model and subsequent ground water monitoring results) that the radioactive material will enter the unrestricted area in 2 years, the resulting radioactive discharge (that would occur 2 years hence) will be considered an abnormal discharge. Therefore, the resulting radioactive discharge should be reported along with other data for the affected calendar year in a future ARERR (i.e., in this example,
3 years later).  Both releases and discharges (either routine or abnormal) should be reported on a calendar- year basis for the year in which the release or discharge occurred.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 16 c. boundary of the unrestricted area5 for liquid effluents (e.g., at the end of the pipe or entrance to a public waterway), and  
Consider another example involving a volume of radioactive gas from the containment atmosphere that escapes the equipment hatch during a refueling outage (especially during the time interval when the containment purge exhaust fans are off).  This would generally not be considered an abnormal discharge if
(1) the duration was preplanned (e.g., for a short duration such as 12 hours), (2) the containment activity (gas, particulate, tritium, and iodine) was preplanned, known, and very low (e.g., such that a bounding estimate of the radioactive material discharged indicated there would be no measurable impact relative to typical discharges), (3) the containment activity was monitored (e.g., by sampling or radiation monitoring equipment), and (4) an evaluation was completed to identify a preplanned limiting (or trigger) level of activity that would initiate remedial or mitigating action (e.g., close the equipment hatch to control gases escaping containment).  In this example, the actions taken (i.e., preplanning and monitoring) before and during the evolution are sufficient to establish control of this discharge.  As a result, this type of evolution should not be categorized as an abnormal discharge.


d. boundary of the unrestricted area for gaseous effluents (e.g., the site boundary). 
===2. Effluent Sampling ===


4. dose calculation methodologies for exposure pathways and routes of exposure that are identified in RG 1.109, if applicable; and
2.1 Representative Sampling 


5. dose calculation methodologies for direct radiation if necessary (e.g., when assessing direct radiation from the facility)6.
A typical schedule for radioactive effluent sample collection and analyses appears in NUREG-
1301 and NUREG-1302. Some licensees may have modified these sampling schedules (typically contained in the ODCM) as part of implementing Generic Letter 89-01 as approved by the NRC.


1.3 Monitoring a Significant Release Point
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 18 Additional samples should be obtained as needed to characterize abnormal releases, abnormal discharges, or other significant operational evolutions.  Samples should be representative of the overall effluent in the bulk stream, collection tank, or container.  Representative samples should be obtained from well-mixed streams or volumes of effluent at sampling points by using proper equipment and sampling procedures.


A significant release point is any location from which radioactive material is released that contributes greater than 1 percent of the activity discharged from all the release points for a particular type of effluent consideredRG 1.109 lists the three types of effluent as (1) liquid effluents, (2) noble gases released to the atmosphere, and (3) all other radionuclides discharged to the atmosphere.
2.2 Sampling Liquid Radioactive Waste


The ODCM should list significant release points.  Significant release points should be monitored in accordance with the ODCMIf a new significant release point is identified and is not listed in the ODCM, licensees should (1) establish an appropriate sampling interval (e.g., in site-specific procedures)
Before sampling, large volumes of liquid waste should be mixed to ensure that sediments or particulate solids are distributed uniformly in the waste mixtureFor example, a large tank may be mixed using a sparger system or recirculated three or more volumes to ensure that a representative sample can be obtained, as recommended by American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D 3370-07, Standard Practices for Sampling Water from Closed Conduits (Ref. 24). If tank-mixing practices deviate from industry standards (i.e., those for recirculation or other), a technical evaluation or other justification should be providedSample points should be located where there is a minimum of disturbance of flow caused by fittings and other physical characteristics of the equipment and components.  Sample nozzles should be inserted into the flow or liquid volume to ensure sampling of the bulk volume of pipes and tanks.  Sample lines should be flushed for a sufficient period of time before sample extraction to remove sediment deposits and air and gas pockets.  Generally, three line volumes should be purged (see ASTM D 3370-07)
and (2) update the ODCM within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., annually).  Releases from a significant release point should be assessed based on an appropriate combination of actual sample analysis results, radiation monitor responses, flow rate indications, tank level indications, and system pressure indications as necessary to ensure that the amount of radioactive material released, and the corresponding doses, are not substantially underestimated (see 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, Section III, Implementation)If activity is detected when monitoring a significant release point, the radionuclides detected should be reported in the effluent totals (including those with half-lives less than 8 days) in the ARERR (i.e., in Table A-1 or Table A-2), provided that the amount discharged is significant to the three-digit exponential format required for the ARERR.
before withdrawing a sample, unless a technical evaluation or other justification is providedPeriodically, a series of samples should be taken during the interval of discharge to determine whether any differences exist as a function of time and to ensure that individual samples are indeed representative of the effluent mixture.  In some instances, this may be accomplished by collecting one or more samples (either by grab or composite sampler) during the discharge and comparing with one or more samples taken before the discharge. If a series of samples are collected, these samples can be used to assess the amount of measurement uncertainty in obtaining representative samples.


1.4 Monitoring a Less-Significant Release Point
2.3  Sampling Gaseous Radioactive Waste 


NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 provide tables designating sampling and analysis frequencies for release points.  Historically, these tables, together with the guidance from RG 1.21, Revision 1, issued June 1974 (Ref. 51) or RG 1.21, Revision 2, issued June 2009 (Ref. 52) provide sampling and analysis frequencies.  Licensees may continue to use the guidance from NUREG-1301 or NUREG-1302 and/or Revision 1 or Revision 2 of RG 1.21 in accordance with their ODCMs.  This method of assigning sample frequencies is simple to implement but, in certain cases, may entail an inappropriately large number of samples for less-significant release points with noor extremely lowimpact on the parameters reported in the ARERRAs a result, for less-significant release points, licensees may evaluate and assign more appropriate sampling frequenciesIf a licensee wishes to deviate from the NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 sampling frequencies, the licensees evaluation must show that the changes (i.e., deviations from NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302) maintain the levels of radioactive effluent control as stated in the technical specifications required by 10 CFR 20.1302; 40 CFR Part 190; 10 CFR 50.36a; and
Although all licensees may not be committed to Regulatory Guide 4.15, American National Standards Institute (ANSI) N42.18-2004, Specification and Performance of On-Site Instrumentation for Continuously Monitoring Radioactivity in Effluents (Ref. 25), and ANSI/Health Physics Society (HPS) N13.1-1999, Sampling and Monitoring Releases of Airborne Radioactive Substances from the Stacks and Ducts of Nuclear Facilities (Ref. 26), the documents contain the general principles for designing and conducting monitoring programs for airborne effluentsThe cited references also contain recommendations for obtaining valid samples of airborne radioactive material in effluents and the guidelines for sampling from ducts and stacksLicensees should use the appropriate licensing documents to evaluate the validity of representative samples (e.g., evaluate the potential for inaccurate sampling of gaseous effluents that may bypass a particulate filter and collect on an iodine collection cartridge) and to identify any inaccurate sample analyses configurations or counting geometries.


5 The boundaries of the unrestricted areas may be defined separately for liquid effluents, gaseous effluents, and if appropriate, for other radiological controls such as direct radiation.
2.4  Sampling Bias


6 The methodology should include background subtraction, and if appropriate, extrapolation of radiation measurements to points of interest (e.g., to the individual members of the public likely to receive the highest dose).  
Sampling and storage techniques that could bias quantitative results for effluent measurements should be evaluated and corrections applied as necessary.  These biases include inaccurate measurement of sample volumes resulting from pressure drops in long sample lines and loss of particulates or iodine in sample lines resulting from deposition or plate-out.  Samplers for gaseous waste should be evaluated for particulate deposition using ANSI N13.1-1999 (Ref. 26) or equivalent.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 17
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 19
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, and do not adversely impact the accuracy or reliability of effluent, dose, or setpoint calculations, and should be maintained in site documentationRegardless of the surveillance frequencies, if activity is detected when monitoring a less-significant release point, the licensee must (in accordance with 10 CFR 50.36a and 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, Section III.A.1) report the cumulative activity in the effluent totals (i.e., in Table A-1 or Table A-2) in the ARERR (provided that the amount discharged is significant to the three-digit exponential format required for the ARERR). 
2.5 Composite Sampling


Site documentation should identify less-significant release points, to the extent reasonable, but it is not necessary to list all possible release points in site documentation.  Releases from a less-significant release point may be assessed (see Section 5.1) to the extent reasonable using assumptions and bounding calculations (in lieu of, or in addition to, sampling and analysis).  When plant conditions change and such changes may reasonably affect the status of a less-significant release point (e.g., significant change in primary-to-secondary leakage in PWRs or substantial cross contamination between systems), the licensee should sample and analyze the affected less-significant release pointsThese sample results should be evaluated to (1) confirm the continued validity of the bounding calculations (if used) with regard to effluent accountability and (2) determine the impact (if any) on effluent accountability.  The guidance in this RG on monitoring less-significant release points for purposes of accountability (through the ARERR)
Composite samples should be representative of the average quantities and concentrations of radioactive materials discharged in liquid and gaseous effluentsComposite samples should be collected in proportion to the effluent flow rate or in proportion to the volume of each batch of effluent discharges.
does not replace, supersede, or otherwise modify any responsibility for monitoring systems normally not contaminated, as outlined in NRC Inspection and Enforcement Bulletin 80-10, Contamination of Nonradioactive System and Resulting Potential for Unmonitored, Uncontrolled Release of Radioactivity to Environment, issued May 1980 (Ref. 53).  A thoroughly designed and documented evaluation of a less-significant release point could also assist in the evaluation and characterization of abnormal releases and abnormal discharges (see Section 1.11 below).  


1.5 Monitoring Leaks and Spills
2.6  Sample Preparation and Preservation


An area where an unplanned release occurred in the onsite environs (e.g., a leak or spill) should be identified as an impacted area, as defined in 10 CFR 50.2, Definitions, for decommissioning purposes, and in accordance with NUREG-1757.  A leak or spill should be assessed to obtain the necessary information for the ARERR, as specified in Section 9.5.1 of this RG.
Methods of sample preparation and/or sample storage should minimize the potential for loss of radioactive material (i.e., deposition of analyte on walls of the sample container or volatilization of analyte).  Composite sample storage time should be as short as practical to preclude deposition on the storage container, or sample stabilization should be considered. Before quantitative radionuclide analyses for liquid effluent composites, samples should be mixed thoroughly so that the sample is representative of the material discharged.


Leaks or spills to the ground and/or subsurface will be diluted on contact with soil and water in the environment; therefore, samples of the undiluted liquid (from the source of the leak or spill) and samples of the affected soil (or surface water or subsurface groundwater) should be analyzed as soon as practical.  In some instances, sampling, particularly soil sampling, may not be practical if the leak occurred in inaccessible areas or if there are extenuating considerations.  In this respect, groundwater monitoring may be used as a surrogate for soil sampling.  If sampling is not practical, the
Procedures should be instituted for handling, packaging, and storing samples to ensure that losses of radioactive materials or other factors causing sample deterioration do not invalidate the analysisFor example, filters should be stored carefully so as to prevent loss of radioactive material from the filter paper.
10 CFR 50.75(g) records should describe why sampling was not conducted (e.g., the area was inaccessible or there were safety considerations).  The licensee should ensure that the location and estimated volume of the leak or spill are recorded to identify the extent of the impacted area and predicted size or extent of the contaminant plume, both horizontally and vertically.  If a spill is promptly and fully remediated (e.g., within 48 hours) and if subsequent surveys of the remediated area indicate no detectable residual radioactivity remaining in the soil or groundwater (see paragraph below), for purposes of reporting discharges in the ARERR, there was no liquid discharge to the unrestricted area, and the spill need not be reported in the ARERRHowever, in accordance with 10 CFR 50.75(g), the decommissioning file should be updated to include a description of the leak or spill event.  Licensees should review the decommissioning files before generating the ARERR to ensure that the ARERR
includes the necessary information on leaks and spills.


When evaluating areas that have been remediated, the licensee should survey for residual radioactivityThere may be times when the licensee wants to verify that an area contains no residual
2.7  Short-Lived Radionuclides and Decay Corrections  


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 18 radioactivityThere is existing regulatory guidance and information on analytical detection capabilities.
In the analysis of short-lived radionuclides (e.g., short-lived noble gases), measurements should generally be made as soon as practical after collection to minimize loss by radioactive decayIn other cases, when needed to improve the detection of the longer-lived radionuclides, time should be allowed for the decay of short-lived, interfering radionuclides.


Licensees should ensure that surveys are appropriate and reasonable, in accordance with 10 CFR 20.1501.
Some special considerations may be applicable in those instances where short-lived radionuclides are being measured.  In general, sample collection (or analysis frequencies) should take into account the half-lives of the radionuclides being measured.  This may have special applicability for continuous samples or composite samples.  It is generally best to select a compositing interval (and analysis frequency)
appropriate for the effluent (radionuclide) being analyzed.  In cases where the compositing interval is selected appropriately, analytical bias is minimized. One way to avoid analytical bias is to decrease the composite sampling interval (and analysis frequency).  


Licensees should generally ensure that surveys are conducted using the appropriate sensitivity levels; e.g., refer to the environmental LLDs in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302, Table 4.12-1, Detection Capabilities for Environmental Sample Analysis, or LLDs determined by using the methodology outlined in NUREG-1576Additionally, licensees should apply plant-process-system knowledge when evaluating leaks and spills.
To minimize bias in measurements, it may be necessary to decay correct analysis results for short-lived radionuclidesLicensees should be cognizant of those situations in which analytical bias may be introduced when analyzing short-lived radionuclides and should select appropriate methods to minimize such bias.


This RG provides guidance on information that licensees should provide in the ARERR. In that context, when leaks and spills of radioactive material are identified, prompt response and timely actions should be taken to the extent reasonable to (1) evaluate onsite radiological conditions and (2) ensure proper reporting of materials discharged off site.  To realize these two goals, it may be necessary to isolate the leak or spill at the source, prevent the spread of the leak or spill, and remediate the affected area (if the licensee deems remediation to be reasonable and necessary).
3 Effluent Dispersion (Meteorology and Hydrology)  


For leaks and spills involving the discharge of radioactive material to an unrestricted area, licensees should follow RG 4.25 or equivalent methods to assess the amount of material discharged to the unrestricted areaThe potential dose to members of the public from the leak or spill should be evaluated using realistic or bounding exposure scenarios. Attachment 6 to SECY-03-0069, Results of the License Termination Rule Analysis, dated May 23, 2003 (Ref. 54), provides more information on the use of realistic scenarios.
3.1 Meteorological Data  


For leaks and spills, licensees should perform surveys that are reasonable to evaluate the potential radiological hazard (as described in 10 CFR 20.1501).  As a result, for leaks and spills, licensees may choose to use bounding assessments to estimate the potential hazard.  For example, if a leak occurs on site and radioactive material is released at or below the ground surface, the licensee may choose to assess the potential hazard by estimating a conservatively large (e.g., bounding) volume of water as part of an assumed exposure pathway analysis (e.g., drinking water).  Such assumptions would allow the licensee to assess the potential hazard to a hypothetical individual member of the publicA hazard assessment of this sort would be appropriate for inclusion in the supplemental information section of the ARERRIf there is no real exposure pathway to a member of the public, the licensee should indicate that the hazard assessment is a bounding estimate of the dose to a hypothetical individual member of the public, and no real individual member of the public received an actual exposure.
Gaseous effluents discharged into the atmosphere are transported and diluted as a function of
(1) the atmospheric conditions in the local environment, (2) the topography of the region, and (3) the characteristics of the effluentsLicensees should consider the guidance in Regulatory Guide 1.23, Meteorological Monitoring Programs for Nuclear Power Plants (Ref. 27), in the development and implementation of site programs designed to collect site-specific meteorological dataThe meteorological data do not need to be reported in the ARERR, but the data should be summarized and maintained as


If licensees choose to notify local authorities of spills or leaks (e.g., because of local ordinances or local and State government agreements), the licensee should review the reporting requirements of
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 20
10 CFR 50.72(b)(xi) and information in NUREG-1022, Event Reporting Guidelines: 10 CFR 50.72 and  
documentation (records). An annual meteorological summary report that provides the joint frequency distributions of wind direction and wind speed by atmospheric stability class (see Regulatory Guide 1.23)  
50.73, issued October 2000 (Ref. 55), for applicability.  In such situations, licensees should ensure effective communication, using NUREG/BR-0308, Effective Risk Communication, issued June 2004 (Ref. 56), especially when ensuring that the risk is described in the appropriate context.  In general, licensees should notify the NRC when significant public concern is raised, in accordance with
should be prepared and maintained on site for the life of the plant.  In addition, hourly meteorological data should be recorded and available if needed for assessing abnormal gaseous releases.
10 CFR 50.72(b)(xi).  


Although the licensee may choose to use its problem identification and resolution program (corrective action program) to document the evaluation of the spill or leak, appropriate documentation should be placed in, or cross referenced to, the decommissioning files, as required by 10 CFR 50.75(g). 
3.2  Atmospheric Transport and Diffusion 


Although prompt remediation is not a requirement (Ref. 57), remediation should be evaluated and implemented, as appropriate, based on licensee evaluations and risk-informed decisionmaking.  The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) Report 1021104 Groundwater and Soil Remediation Guidelines for Nuclear Power Plants, proprietary report issued December 2010 (Ref. 58) and EPRI
Site-specific meteorological data collected should be analyzed and used to generate gaseous effluent dispersion factors (/Q) and deposition factors (D/Q) in accordance with Regulatory Guide 1.111, Methods for Estimating Atmospheric Transport and Dispersion of Gaseous Effluents in Routine Releases from Light-Water-Cooled Reactors (Ref. 28).  The use of annual average meteorological conditions to determine /Q and D/Q is appropriate for continuous releases and for establishing instantaneous release set points (see NUREG-0133, Preparation of Radiological Effluent Technical Specifications for Nuclear Power Plants, issued October 1978 (Ref. 29)).  This practice may also be acceptable for calculating doses from intermittent releases if the releases occur randomly and with sufficient frequency to justify the use of annual average meteorological conditions (see Regulatory Guide 1.111).  When calculating long-term, annual average frequency distributions, 5 (or more) years of data should be used.  If long-term, annual average /Q and D/Q values are used in determining dose to individual members of the public, the values should be revalidated or updated periodically (e.g., every 3 to 5 years).  If the evaluation indicates the long- term, annual average /Q and D/Q are nonconservative by 10 percent or more, either revise the affected values or document the reason why such changes are not deemed necessary.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 19 Report 1023464, Groundwater and Soil Remediation Guidelines for Nuclear Power Plants, (Public Edition) Final Report, July 2011 (Ref. 59) may be useful in performing remediation evaluations.
3.3 Release Height


Evaluation factors should include (1) the location and accessibility, (2) the concentrations of radionuclides and extent of the residual radioactivity, (3) the efficacy of monitored natural attenuation,
The release height affects the transport and dispersion of radioactive materials especially with respect to downwash and building wake effects.  For facilities with both ground-level and elevated releases, an evaluation should be made to determine the proper location of the maximum exposed individual member of the public.  From a dispersion perspective, when determining the maximum exposure location (submersion and/or deposition), the evaluation should consider the magnitude of release originating as an elevated release and the magnitude of release originating as a ground-level release.  For example, a close-in, downwind location in one sector may have a higher /Q (i.e., less dispersion) for a ground-level release; however, the majority of the source term may be originating as an elevated release, causing a higher concentration () at a more distant location, possibly in a different sectorSee Regulatory Guide 1.111 for a more complete discussion of release height.
(4) the volume of the release, (5) the mobility of the radionuclides, (6) the depth of the water table, and
(7) whether significant residual radioactivity (see glossary) is expected at the time of decommissioning.  Since the contaminants, concentrations, and extent of contamination are expected to vary over time or plant life (either increase based on anticipated future leaks and spills or decrease based on remediation or monitored natural attenuation), no one set of numerical values defines significant residual radioactivityHowever, licensees may make remediation decisions based on their expectations of their ability to meet the decommissioning criteria of 10 CFR 20.1402 at the anticipated time of decommissioning.


Information that may be useful in this risk-informed decision making includes (1) NUREG-1757, Volume 1, Appendix H, EPA/NRC Memorandum of Understanding, (2) NUREG-1757, Volume 2, Table H.1, Acceptable License Termination Screening Values of Common Radionuclides for Building-Surface Contamination, and (3) the authorized derived concentration guideline levels for decommissioned nuclear power plantsFor a more detailed analysis, licensees may use the computer codes described in NUREG/CR-6676, Probabilistic Dose Analysis Parameter Distributions Developed for RESRAD and RESRAD-BUILD Codes, issued July 2000 (Ref. 60); NUREG/CR-6692, Probabilistic Modules for the RESRAD and RESRAD-BUILD Computer Codes, issued November
3.4 Aquatic Dispersion (Surface Waters)  
2000 (Ref. 61); NUREG/CR-6697, Development of Probabilistic RESRAD 6.0 and RESRAD-BUILD
3.0 Computer Codes, issued December 2000 (Ref. 62); and NUREG/CR-7267, Default Parameter Values and Distribution in RESRAD-ONSITE V7.2, RESRAD-BUILD V3.5 and RESRAD-OFFSITE
V4.0 Computer Codes (Ref. 63). 


1.6 Monitoring Continuous Releases of Noble Gases
Liquid radioactive effluents may be disposed in accordance with 10 CFR 20.2001, General Requirements, into a variety of receiving surface water bodies, including non-tidal rivers, lakes, reservoirs, settling ponds, cooling ponds, estuaries, and open coastal waters.  This effluent is dispersed by various mechanisms (i.e., turbulent mixing, stream flow in the water bodies, and internal circulation or flow-through in lakes, reservoirs, and cooling ponds).  Parameters influencing the dispersion patterns and concentrations near a site include the direction and speed of flow of currents, both natural and plant- induced, in the receiving water; the intensity of turbulent mixing; the size, geometry, and bottom topography of the receiving water; the location of effluent discharge in relation to the receiving water surface and shoreline; the amount of recirculation of previously discharged effluent; the characteristics of suspended and bottom sediments; and sediment sorption properties.  Regulatory Guide 1.113, Estimating Aquatic Dispersion of Effluents from Accidental and Routine Releases for the Purpose of Implementing Appendix I (Ref. 30), describes calculational models for estimating aquatic dispersion to surface water


For continuous releases, gross radioactivity measurements are often the only practical means of continuous monitoringThese gross radioactivity measurements are typically used to actuate alarms and terminate (trip) effluent releases; by themselves, such measurements are generally not acceptable for demonstrating compliance with effluent discharge limits.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 21 bodiesHowever, the dispersion characteristics may be highly site dependent and local characteristics should be considered when performing dispersion modeling and dose assessments.


The use of continuously indicating radiation monitoring system results may be combined with sample analyses to more fully characterize and quantify a dischargeThis technique may have particular applicability when (1) a short-term, rapid upscale indication of a process radiation monitor occurs during a release or (2) when there is a desire to verify whether a preliminary grab sample is representative.  In these instances, the licensee should ensure that the radiation monitor responses (i.e., the radiation monitor efficiencies) for various radionuclides are well characterized.
3.5 Spills and Leaks to the Ground Surface


Grab samples should be collected at scheduled frequencies in accordance with the ODCM (see NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 or as approved in GL 89-01 submittals) to quantify specific radionuclide concentrations and release rates.  The frequency of sample collection and radionuclide analyses should be based on the degree of variance in (1) the magnitude of the discharge and (2) the relative radionuclide composition from an established normIf the magnitude of the discharge and the relative nuclide composition of a continuous release vary significantly over the course of the discharge period, a combination of grab samples and continuous monitor readings can assist in accurately estimating the discharge.  Continuous monitoring data (e.g., chart recorder data), as well as grab sample data, should be reviewed periodically and used to identify this variance from the established norm.
Liquid releases onto the land surface are transported and diluted as a function of site-specific hydrologic features, events, and processes and properties of the effluent.  The releases may temporarily accumulate, pool, or runoff to natural and/or engineered drainage systems.  During this process, water may also be absorbed into the soil (addressed in the next paragraph).  Regulatory Guide 1.113 discusses the use of simple models to estimate transport through surface water bodies and considers water usage effects.


Periodic evaluations should be made between gross radioactivity measurements and grab sample analyses
Spills or leaks of radioactive material to the ground surface should initiate characterization of the runoff.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 20
The characterization activities should, at a minimum, satisfy (1) the requirements of 10 CFR 50.75(g), as well as (2) the effluent reporting requirements of NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 typically associated with planned effluents (e.g., sampling before discharge to unrestricted areas)Refer to Regulatory Positions 8.5.1, 8.5.2, and 8.5.9 in this guide for recommendations on the general format for reporting abnormal releases to on-site areas and abnormal discharges to unrestricted areas.
of specific radionuclidesThese evaluations should be used to verify (or modify) the conversion factors that correlate radiation monitor readings and concentrations of radionuclides in effluents.


NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 provide guidance on the Radiological Environmental Monitoring ProgramTable 3.12-1 therein provides guidance on implementing the environmental monitoring program, including I-131 sampling and analysis on each composite of drinking water.
3.6 Spills and Leaks to Ground Water


If a drinking water exposure pathway exists, a prospective dose evaluation should be performed based on I-131 in effluent discharges to determine the maximum likely annual I-131 thyroid dose to a person in any age group from the drinking water pathway.  The purpose of the prospective dose evaluation is to determine the environmental sampling and analysis requirements for drinking water.
Liquid radioactive leaks and spills are sometimes released to on-site ground water or discharged to offsite ground water.  Leaks and spills onto the ground surface can be absorbed into the soil. Once in the soil, some of the material in the leak or spill may, depending on the local soil properties and associated liquid flux of the release, eventually reach the local water table.  The dispersion of this material depends on the local subsurface geology and hydrogeologic characteristics.  Liquid releases into the subsurface will be transported as a function of ground water flow processes and conditions (e.g., hydraulic gradients, permeability, porosity, and geochemical processes) and will eventually be released to the unrestricted area.


Note:  Freshwater fish ingestion is not included in the prospective dose evaluation of I-131 from the drinking water route of exposure.
A ground water site conceptual model should be developed to predict the subsurface water flow parameters to include direction and rate and to be used as the basis for estimating the dispersion of abnormal releases of liquid effluents into ground water (see Regulatory Guide 4.1). References that can be used in developing an adequate ground water site conceptual model include the following: 


If the likely dose from I-131 is greater than 1 mrem per year, a composite drinking water sample should be collected over a 2-week period and an I-131 analysis performed with an LLD of 1 pCi/liter.  If the likely dose from I-131 is less than or equal to 1 mrem per year, a monthly composite sample should be collected, and an I-131 analysis performed with an LLD of 15 pCi/liter.
1.


In addition, Standard Technical Specifications require determination of the projected dose contributions from radioactive effluents at least every 31 days, and determination of the cumulative dose contributions for the current calendar quarter and current calendar year.
ANSI/American Nuclear Society (ANS) 2.17, Evaluation of Subsurface Radionuclide Transport at Commercial Nuclear Power Production Facilities (Ref. 31); 


1.7 Monitoring Batch Releases 
2.


For batch releases, measurements should be performed to identify principal radionuclides before a release.  If an analysis of specific hard-to-detect radionuclides (such as strontium-89/90, nickel-63 and iron-55 in liquid releases) cannot be done before the batch release (see NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302),  
NUREG/CR-6948, Integrated Ground-Water Monitoring Strategy for NRC-Licensed Facilities and Sites, issued November 2007 (Ref. 32); and  
the licensee should have collected representative samples for the purpose of subsequent composite analysis. The composite samples should be analyzed at the scheduled frequencies specified in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 or at the revised frequencies specified by the licensee (with documented justification in accordance with ODCM change process specified in the technical specifications) (see Sections 1.3 and 1.4 of this RG). 


Continuously indicating radiation monitoring system results may be combined with sample analyses to more fully characterize and quantify a discharge.  This technique may have particular applicability when (1) a short-term, rapid upscale indication of a process radiation monitor occurs during a discharge or (2) when there is a desire to verify whether a preliminary grab sample is representative.  In these instances, the licensee should ensure that radiation monitor responses (i.e., the radiation monitor efficiencies) for various radionuclides are well characterized.
3.


1.8 Principal Radionuclides for Effluent Monitoring
Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) Report No. 1011730, Ground Water Monitoring Guidance for Nuclear Power Plants, issued September 2005 (Ref.  33).


This RG introduces the term principal radionuclide in a risk informed context.  A licensee may evaluate the list of principal radionuclides for use at a particular site.  The principal radionuclides may be determined based on their relative contribution to either (1) the public dose compared to the
4.
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, design objective doses, or (2) the amount of activity discharged compared to other site radionuclides in the type of effluent being considered.  Under this concept, radionuclides that have either a significant activity or a significant dose contribution should be monitored in accordance with a predetermined and appropriate analytical sensitivity level (LLD) outlined in a licensees ODCM.


This implementation of principal radionuclides ensures that the ARERR appropriately includes both the
NUREG/CR-6805, A Comprehensive Strategy of Hydrogeology Modeling and Uncertainty Analysis for Nuclear Facilities and Sites, July, 2003 (Ref 54).


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 21
5.
(1) radionuclides that are present in relatively large amounts but that contribute very little to dose and
(2) radionuclides that are present in very small amounts but that have a relatively high contribution to dose.


If a risk-informed approach is used, principal radionuclides should be determined based on an evaluation over a time period that includes a refueling outage (e.g., one fuel cycle).  A periodic reevaluation should be performed to determine whether the radionuclide mix has changed and to identify new principal radionuclides.
EPRI Report No. 1015118, Ground Water Protection Guidelines for Nuclear Power Plants, Electric Power Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA, November 2007 (Ref 34).  


If a risk-informed approach is applied to the determination of principal radionuclides7, the ODCM becomes the controlling document and specifies the list of principal radionuclides. If adopting this method, the licensee should update the ODCM with the list of principal radionuclides within 1 year of their identificationLicensees are allowed to revise the ODCM in accordance with the ODCM change process, as described in the plants technical specifications (which includes documented evaluations of such changes). 
Simple analytical models or more rigorous numerical codes (i.e., simulations) may be used to evaluate subsurface transport following a releaseThese models and codes will depend on the release rate,  


If adopting a risk-informed approach, a radionuclide is considered a principal radionuclide if it contributes either (1) greater than 1 percent of the 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, design objective dose for all radionuclides in the type of effluent being considered or (2) greater than 1 percent of the activity of all radionuclides in the type of effluent being considered.  RG 1.109 lists the three types of effluent as
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 22 depth of the release, depth to the local water table, ground water flow directions, ground water flow rates, geochemical conditions, and other geochemical processes (e.g., geochemical retardation).  Additionally, water usage such as ground water pumping from wells may create local ground water depression(s) that can alter the natural ground water flow.
(1) liquid effluents, (2) noble gases released to the atmosphere, and (3) all other radionuclides released to the atmosphere.  In this context, the term principal radionuclide has special significance for the required sensitivity levels (e.g., LLDs) for an analysis.  The LLDs specified in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 may be used, or LLDs may be determined based on the other methodologies (e.g., as outlined in NUREG-1576).  Once principal radionuclides are identified, they should be monitored in accordance with the sensitivity levels (e.g., LLDs) listed in the ODCM.


During analysis of samples, licensees should apply the appropriate analytical sensitivities to ensure adequate surveys are conducted.  NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 provide a list of principal gamma emitters for operating reactors for which an LLD control applies. Historically, this list and guidance from Revision 1 or Revision 2 provided the appropriate sensitivity levels for an analysis.
Sites should perform a basic site hydrogeological characterization, in advance of leaks or spills, to be prepared to evaluate potential leaks and spills.  Sites with significant residual radioactivity that are likely to exceed the radiological criteria for unrestricted use at the time of decommissioning (e.g., as described in
10 CFR 20.1402) should perform more extensive evaluation.  Initial assessments should be conducted with relatively simple site conceptual models using scoping surveys and/or bounding assumptionsThe complexity of the models should increase as (1) more knowledge is obtained about the system under evaluation (e.g., source of leak, plume size, concentrations, radionuclides, site characteristics, presence of preferential flow pathways, etc) and as (2) the dose estimates rise above significant residual radioactivity levels (see definition in the glossary).  Industry documents (Refs. 31, 33, and 34) that contain details of various industry practices can be used as part of a ground-water monitoring program.  Sites with low-level spills or leaks generally do not require extensive site characterization and monitoring.


Licensees may continue to use this historical guidance, which essentially classifies all radionuclides as principal radionuclides, and apply the analytical sensitivity levels (e.g., LLDs) directly from NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 and Revision 1 or 2 of RG 1.21.  This method is simple to implement but, in certain cases, may entail inappropriately long count times or may involve alternate (or unnecessary) methods of analysis for low-activity radionuclides with noor extremely lowdose significance.
Some basic steps in monitoring ground water contamination are summarized below:


Although the LLD list from NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 may be used to determine principal radionuclides, in reality, the principal radionuclides at a site will depend on site-specific factors, such as  
1.  Use the site conceptual model (as necessary) to assist in monitoring, evaluating, and reporting radioactive releases and radioactive discharges.
(1) the operating status of the facility (e.g., operating or in decommissioning), (2) the amount of failed fuel, (3) the extent of system leakage, (4) the sophistication of radioactive waste processing equipment, and (5) the level of expertise in operating radioactive waste processing systems.  Since the principal radionuclides will vary from site to site, licensees that wish to deviate from the historical method of determining principal radionuclides (as described above) may adopt a risk-informed approach to identify principal radionuclides (and the associated sensitivity levels) at a site.


7 With respect to principal radionuclides, dose is the measure of risk, whereas activity is notFor example, a relatively large amount of tritium released into a large body of water has little dose significance.
2Collect empirical data by one or more of the following (as necessary):
a.  sample and analyze ground water from existing monitoring wells, and b.  conduct additional hydrogeologic testing using existing wells (or new wells) if required.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 22 For radionuclides that are not identified as principal radionuclides, licensees may use their discretion with the sensitivity of analysis, provided the licensees determine that the changes maintain the levels of radioactive effluent controls required by the regulations in 10 CFR 20.1302; 40 CFR Part 190;
3.  Test the site conceptual model and radionuclide transport predictions using groundwater sample results and data collected during hydrogeologic testing.
10 CFR 50.36a; and 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, and do not adversely impact the accuracy or reliability of effluent, dose, or setpoint calculationsIf licensees change their analytical sensitivities from those in their ODCM or equivalent, they must document the basis for the deviations.  For example, DQOs and other concepts from RG 4.15 may be useful for determining risk-informed sensitivity levels for an analytical method.


The risk-informed concept of principal radionuclides does not reduce the requirement for reporting radionuclides detected in effluentsIn addition to principal radionuclides, other radionuclides detected during routine monitoring of release points should be reported in the radioactive effluent release report and included in dose assessments to members of the public, consistent with site-specific technical specifications.
4Modify site conceptual model and radionuclide transport parameters as necessary to predict discharges and assess doses to members of the public.


1.9 Carbon-14
5.  Return to step 1.


Carbon (C)-14 is a naturally occurring isotope of carbonNuclear weapons testing in the 1950s and 1960s significantly increased the amount of C-14 in the atmosphereCommercial nuclear reactors also produce C-14 but in much lower amounts than those produced naturally or from weapons testing.
The ground water monitoring results should be used in the development and testing of a site conceptual model to predict radionuclide transport in ground water.  A more thorough discussion is contained in the references listed in section C.3.6.  The site conceptual model is generally considered adequate when it predicts the results of monitoring (sometimes called a calibrated model). Ground water monitoring results are used to evaluate the validity of the site conceptual modelFollowing a leak or spill of contaminated material, the site conceptual model may be used in conjunction with radionuclide transport modeling and ground water monitoring to comprise a basis for predicting future effluents from the siteAccount should be taken of dispersion and dilution that occurs over time and in three dimensions.


IAEA Report Number 421 provides relevant information on C-14 releasesThe C-14 releases in PWRs occur primarily as a mix of organic carbon and carbon dioxide released from the waste gas systemIn BWRs, C-14 releases occur mainly as carbon dioxide in gaseous waste.
The site conceptual model together with a strategic and carefully planned monitoring program can ensure that necessary and reasonable surveys are performed (i.e., limited scoping surveys or more extensive surveys)Limited scoping surveys should be performed to determine if significant residual radioactivity exists and to determine if there is adequate protection of public health and safetyIf the limited scoping surveys identify significant residual radioactivity, then the extent of the contamination


Regulations in 10 CFR 50.36a require that operating procedures be developed for the control of effluents and that quantities of principal radionuclides be reportedThe radioactive effluents from commercial nuclear power plants over time has decreased to the point that C-14 is likely to have become a principal radionuclide (as defined in this document) in gaseous effluentsTherefore, licensees must evaluate whether C-14 is a principal radionuclide for gaseous releases from their facilityBecause the dose contribution of C-14 from liquid radioactive waste is much less than that contributed by gaseous radioactive waste, an evaluation of C-14 in liquid radioactive waste is not required.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 23 should be further evaluated by more extensive surveys (e.g., monitoring wells or other evaluations as appropriate). These survey activities may be direct (i.e., occurring at, or very near, the source of the leak)
or indirect (i.e., occurring at some distance from the source of the leak) depending on the accessibility of the source of the spill or leak and the mobility of the radionuclides.  For spills or leaks occurring below the soil surface in inaccessible locations, direct scoping and characterization may not be feasibleIn these cases, indirect monitoring techniques (e.g., ground water monitoring wells in a down gradient direction)
should be used to satisfy existing regulatory requirements.  These survey activities should, at a minimum, satisfy (1) the requirements of 10 CFR 50.75(g) and (2) the effluent reporting requirements of
10 CFR 50.36a for ground water discharges to the unrestricted area.  In general, leaks and spills of radioactive material should be described (reported) in the ARERR for the calendar year the spill or leak occurredAdditionally, ground water monitoring data should be reported in the ARERR for the calendar year in which the data were collectedRefer to Regulatory Positions 8.5.1, 8.5.2, and 8.5.9 of this document for guidance on the general format for reporting abnormal releases to on-site areas and abnormal discharges to unrestricted areas.


The quantity of C-14 discharged can be estimated by use of a normalized C-14 source term and scaling factors based on power generation or estimated by use of the NUREG-0016 (GALE-BWR) and NUREG (GALE-PWR) computer codes.  The National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements Report No. 81, Carbon-14 in the Environment, (Ref. 64) also provides information about the magnitude of C-14 in typical effluents from commercial nuclear power plants. These documents estimate that nominal annual releases of C-14 in gaseous effluents are approximately from 5 to 7.3 curies from PWRs and from 8 to 9.5 curies from BWRs.
Although licensees may conduct a ground water monitoring effort for different reasons, for purposes of this regulatory guide, the surveys, characterization activities, site conceptual models, and other components of any ground water monitoring effort should be sufficient to do the following:  


The quantity of C-14 generated in BWR and PWR cores can also be estimated by a calculational method provided by the EPRI Report No. 1021106, Estimation of Carbon-14 in Nuclear Power Plant Gaseous Effluents, issued December 2010 (Ref. 65) and EPRI Report No. 1024827 "Carbon-14 Dose Calculation Methods at Nuclear Power Plants," issued April 2012, (Ref. 66). If estimating C-14 based on scaling factors and fission rates, a precise and detailed evaluation of C-14 is not necessary.  It is not necessary to calculate uncertainties for C-14 or to include C-14 uncertainty in any subsequent calculation of overall uncertainty.
1.


Since the NRC published RG 1.21, Revision 1, in 1974, the analytical methods for determining C-14 have improved.  Because the production of C-14 is expected to be relatively constant at a particular site, if sampling is performed for C-14 (instead of estimating C-14 discharges based on calculations), the
appropriately report, for purposes of accountability, effluents discharged to unrestricted areas,


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 23 sampling frequency may be adjusted to that interval that allows adequate measurement and reporting of effluents.
2.


1.10
document information in a format consistent with Table A-6 and Regulatory Position 8.5,  
Return/Reuse of Previously Discharged Radioactive Effluents  


Radioactive material properly released in gaseous or liquid effluents to the unrestricted area (excluding solid materials or soil) is not considered licensed material when returned to the facility as long as the concentration of radioactive material does not exceed 10 CFR Part 30, Rules of General Applicability to Domestic Licensing of Byproduct Material, exempt concentration limits (otherwise a general or specific license is required). The water containing radioactive material returned from the environment can be used by the licensee and returned to the unrestricted area without being considered a new radioactive material effluent release. The basis for this determination is that the licensee has already accounted for this radioactive material when the effluent was originally discharged, provided that the subsequent use, possession, or release does not introduce a new significant dose pathway to a member of the public, as explained below.
3.


Licensees are responsible for evaluating any new significant exposure pathway and the resultant radiological hazards associated with the return of radioactive material to the operating facility and its subsequent discharge to the environment. For purposes of estimating dose during operations or decommissioning, a new significant exposure pathway is any pathway that contributes dose that exceeds
provide advance indication of potential future discharges to unrestricted areas (to ensure releases are planned and monitored before discharge),
10% of the dose criteria in 10 CFR 50 Appendix I, Section II (such that the dose from a new exposure pathway is unlikely to be substantially underestimated). Bounding dose assessments as described in Section 5.1 of this RG may be used in evaluating any new significant exposure pathway.  Furthermore, before returning radioactive materials to the environment, licensees must demonstrate that these radioactive materials were previously disposed of in accordance with 10 CFR 20.2001(a)(3), or that the material is naturally occurring background radiation. Radioactive material previously not accounted for as an effluent that is entrained with returned/re-used water must be considered a new effluent disposal per 10
CFR 20.2001. See RIS 2008-03 for further details.


1.11 Abnormal Releases and Abnormal Discharges
4.


In RG 1.21, Revision 1, the terms release and discharge were synonymous.  In RG 1.21, Revision 2 and 3, the term release describes an effluent emitted from the plant to either the onsite or offsite environs, (regardless of where the effluent is located), and the term discharge describes that portion of an effluent that enters the offsite environs (e.g., the unrestricted area).  Although the term release includes effluents to either (1) the onsite environs or (2) the offsite environs (e.g., the unrestricted area), this RG generally reserves use of the term release for the release of an effluent from the power plant into the onsite environs.  The onsite environs in this context encompass locations outside of nuclear power plant systems, structures, and components, as described in the final safety analysis report or ODCM. This is a change in terminology with respect to the definition of abnormal release in RG 1.21, Revision 1, which defined abnormal releases to be from the site boundary.
demonstrate that significant residual radioactivity has not migrated off site to an unrestricted area in the annual reporting interval, and   


An abnormal release (see glossary) is an unplanned or uncontrolled release of licensed radioactive material into the onsite environs.  Abnormal releases may be categorized as either batch or continuous, depending on the circumstances.  By contrast, an abnormal discharge (see glossary) is an unplanned or uncontrolled discharge of licensed radioactive material to the unrestricted area.  Abnormal discharges may also be categorized as either batch or continuous, depending on the circumstances.  The distinction between the terms abnormal release and abnormal discharge is important for describing the staff position for measuring, evaluating, and reporting releases and discharges, especially where leaks and spills are involved.
5.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 24 That portion of an abnormal release discharged to the unrestricted area is reported as an abnormal discharge in the year in which the discharge to the unrestricted area occurred.  The portion of an abnormal release that remains onsite is considered residual radioactivity (see 10 CFR Part 20) and is documented in accordance with 10 CFR 50.75(g).  
communicate pertinent information to the NRC.


Low-level radioactive system leakage resulting from minor equipment failures and component aging (wear and tear) may be expected to occur as an anticipated part of the plant operation.  If such leakage is captured by, or directed to, a system designed to accept and handle radioactive material, including the subsequent planned and controlled discharge of the radioactive material (e.g., as described in the final safety analysis report or ODCM), that evolution is not considered an abnormal release.
===4. Quality Assurance ===


Normal system leakage captured by effluent ventilation control systems or sumps is not an abnormal release (provided that, before discharge of the radioactive material, the discharge is planned and controlled)(See also the definitions of unplanned release and uncontrolled release in the glossary.) 
4.1  Regulatory Guidance  


In certain circumstances, some subjectivity may be associated with the definitions of unplanned release and uncontrolled release.  In these situations, additional circumstances should be considered to determine whether an abnormal release occurredA well-designed and documented evaluation of a release point can include an evaluation of the potential for an unplanned or uncontrolled releaseThe evaluation can establish bounding criteria that establish a threshold for an abnormal release based on planning and control. Generally, releases that may reasonably be categorized as both unplanned and uncontrolled should be considered abnormal releases.
A range of QC checks and tests should be applied to the analytical processRegulatory Guide 4.15, Revisions 1 and 2, describe the QA program activities for ensuring that radioactive effluent monitoring systems and operational programs meet their intended purpose.  Each licensees licensing basis determines the applicability of Revision 1 or Revision 2Licensees with programs in operation before the issuance of Regulatory Guide 4.15, Revision 2, may rely exclusively on Revision


For example, consider an underground pipe that carries radioactive liquid to an outside storage tankIf this pipe develops a leak, and licensed radioactive material escapes into the surrounding soil, it is considered an abnormal release if some portion or all of the radioactive material remains onsite.  This type of leak should be reported as an abnormal release in the next ARERRIf the licensee predicts (e.g., based on its conceptual site model and subsequent groundwater monitoring results) that the radioactive material will enter the unrestricted area in 2 years, the resulting radioactive discharge (that would occur 2 years hence) will be considered an abnormal discharge.  Therefore, the resulting radioactive discharge should be reported along with other data for the affected calendar year in a future ARERR (i.e., in this example, 3 years later).  Both releases and discharges (either routine or abnormal)
===1. Regulatory Guide ===
should be reported on a calendar-year basis for the year in which the release or discharge occurred.
4.15, Revision 2, contains guidance on determining appropriate sensitivity levels for analytical instrumentation based on data quality objectives (DQOs)The use of DQOs may provide a better technical basis for determining sensitivity levels (LLDs) than the use of the default values supplied in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302A combination approach (using both Revision 1 and Revision 2 of Regulatory Guide 4.15) can be used to determine appropriate sensitivity levels (LLDs) different (i.e., higher or numerically larger) than those listed in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302.


Consider another example involving a volume of radioactive gas from the containment atmosphere that escapes the equipment hatch during a refueling outage (especially during the time interval when the containment purge exhaust fans are off).  This would generally not be considered an abnormal discharge if (1) the duration was preplanned (e.g., for a short duration such as 12 hours),
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 24
(2) the containment activity (gas, particulate, tritium, and iodine) was preplanned, known, and very low (e.g., such that a bounding estimate of the radioactive material discharged indicated there would be no measurable impact relative to typical discharges), (3) the containment activity was monitored (e.g., by sampling or radiation monitoring equipment), and (4) an evaluation was completed to identify a preplanned limiting (or trigger) level of activity that would initiate remedial or mitigating action (e.g., close the equipment hatch to control gases escaping containment)In this example, the actions taken (i.e., preplanning and monitoring) before and during the evolution are sufficient to establish control of this discharge. As a result, this type of evolution should not be categorized as an abnormal discharge.
4.2 Quality Control Checks  


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 25
QC checks of laboratory instrumentation should be conducted daily or before use, and background variations should be monitored at regular intervals to demonstrate that a given instrument is in working condition and functioning properly. QC records should include results of routine tests and checks, background data, calibrations, and all routine maintenance and service.
2.


Effluent Sampling
4.3  Functional Checks 


2.1 Representative Sampling 
Routine qualitative tests and checks (e.g., channel operational tests, channel checks, or source checks to demonstrate that a given instrument is in working condition and functioning properly) may be performed using radioactive sources that are not traceable by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The schedule for source checks, channel checks, channel calibrations, and channel operational tests should be in accordance with NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302.


NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 provide a typical schedule for radioactive effluent sample collection and analysesSome licensees may have modified these sampling schedules (typically contained in the ODCM) as part of implementing GL 89-01, as approved by the NRC.  Additional samples should be obtained as needed to characterize abnormal releases, abnormal discharges, or other significant operational evolutions.  Samples should be representative of the overall effluent in the bulk stream, collection tank, or container. Licensees should ensure that representative samples were obtained from well-mixed streams or volumes of effluent at sampling points, using proper equipment and sampling procedures.
4.4 Procedures  


2.2 Sampling Liquid Radioactive Waste
Individual written procedures should be used to establish specific methods of calibrating installed radiological monitoring systems and grab sampling equipment.  Written procedures should document calibration practices used for ancillary equipment and systems (e.g., meteorological equipment, airflow measuring equipment, in-stack monitoring pitot tubes).  Calibration procedures may be compilations of published standard practices or manufacturers instructions that accompany purchased equipment, or they may be specially written in house to include special methods or items of equipment not covered elsewhere.


Before sampling, large volumes of liquid waste should be mixed to ensure that sediments or particulate solids are distributed uniformly in the waste mixture.  For example, a large tank may be mixed using a sparger system or recirculated three or more volumes to ensure that a representative sample can be obtained, as recommended by American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D3370 - 18, Standard Practices for Sampling Water from Flowing Process Streams (Ref. 67).  If tank-mixing practices deviate from industry standards (i.e., those for recirculation or otherwise), the licensee should provide a technical evaluation or other justification.  Sample points should be located where there is a minimum of disturbance of flow caused by fittings and other physical characteristics of the equipment and components.  Sample nozzles should be inserted into the flow or liquid volume to ensure sampling of the bulk volume of pipes and tanks.  Sample lines should be flushed for a sufficient period of time before sample extraction to remove sediment deposits and air and gas pockets.  Generally, three sample line volumes should be purged as recommended by ASTM D3370 - 18, before withdrawing a sample, unless a technical evaluation or other justification is provided.  A series of samples should be taken periodically during the interval of discharge to determine whether any differences exist as a function of time and to ensure that individual samples are indeed representative of the effluent mixture.  In some instances, this may be accomplished by collecting one or more samples (either by grab or composite sampler) during the discharge and comparing with one or more samples taken before the discharge.  If a series of samples is collected, these samples can be used to assess the amount of measurement uncertainty in obtaining representative samples.
Calibration procedures should identify the specific equipment or group of instruments to which the procedures apply.


2.3 Sampling Gaseous Radioactive Waste 
Written procedures should be used for maintaining counting room instrument accuracy, including maintenance, storage, and use of radioactive reference standards; instrumentation calibration methods; and QC activities such as collection, reduction, evaluation, and reporting of QC data.


Although all licensees may not be committed to RG 4.15, ANSI N42.18-2004, Specification and Performance of On-Site Instrumentation for Continuously Monitoring Radioactivity in Effluents (Ref. 68), ANSI N42.54-2018, Instrumentation and Systems for Monitoring Radioactivity (Ref. 69),
4.5 Calibration of Laboratory Equipment and Radiation Monitors  
and ANSI/Health Physics Society (HPS) N13.1-2011, Sampling and Monitoring Releases of Airborne Radioactive Substances from the Stacks and Ducts of Nuclear Facilities (Ref. 70), these documents provide general principles for designing and conducting monitoring programs for airborne effluents. The cited references also contain recommendations for obtaining valid samples of airborne radioactive material in effluents and the guidelines for sampling from ducts and stacks. Licensees should use the appropriate licensing documents to evaluate the validity of representative samples (e.g., evaluate the potential for inaccurate sampling of gaseous effluents that may bypass a particulate filter and collect on an iodine collection cartridge) and to identify any inaccurate sample analyses configurations or counting geometries.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 26
Calibrations (e.g., of laboratory equipment and continuous radiation monitoring systems used to quantify radioactive effluents) should be performed using reference standards certified by NIST or standards that have been calibrated against NIST-certified standards. Calibration standards should have the necessary accuracy, stability, and range required for their intended use.  Continuous radioactivity monitoring systems should be calibrated against appropriate NIST standards.  The relationship between concentrations and monitor readings should be determined over the full range of the readout device.
2.4 Sampling Bias


Sampling and storage techniques that could bias quantitative results for effluent measurements should be evaluated and corrections applied as necessary.  These biases include inaccurate measurement of sample volumes resulting from pressure drops in long sample lines and loss of particulates or iodine in sample lines resulting from deposition or plate-out.  Samplers for gaseous waste should be evaluated for particulate deposition using ANSI/HPS N13.1-2011 or equivalent.
Adequacy of the system should be judged on the basis of reproducibility, time stability, and sensitivity.


2.5 Composite Sampling
Periodic inservice correlations that relate monitor readings to the concentrations and/or release rates of radioactive material in the monitored release path should be performed to validate the adequacy of the system.  These correlations should be based on the results of analyses for specific radionuclides in grab samples from the release path.


Composite samples should be representative of the average quantities and concentrations of radioactive materials discharged in liquid and gaseous effluents.  Composite samples should be collected in proportion to the effluent flow rate or in proportion to the volume of each batch of effluent discharges.
The use of NIST-traceable sources combined with mathematical efficiency calibrations may be applied to instrumentation used for radiochemical analysis (e.g., gamma spectroscopy systems) if employing a method provided by the instrument manufacturer.


2.6 Sample Preparation and Preservation
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 25


Sample preparation and storage methods should minimize the potential for loss of radioactive material (i.e., deposition of analyte on walls of the sample container or volatilization of analyte). 
4.6  Calibration of Measuring and Test Equipment  
Composite sample storage time should be as short as practical to preclude deposition on the storage container, or sample stabilization should be considered. Before quantitative radionuclide analyses for liquid effluent composites, licensees should ensure that samples are mixed thoroughly so that the sample is representative of the material discharged.


Procedures for handling, packaging, and storing samples should ensure that losses of radioactive materials or other factors causing sample deterioration do not invalidate the analysisFor example, filters should be stored carefully to prevent loss of radioactive material from the filter paper.
Measuring and test equipment should be calibrated using reference standards certified by NIST or standards that have been calibrated against standards certified by NISTThe calibration standards should be representative of the sample types analyzed and have the necessary accuracy, stability, and range required for their intended use.


2.7 Short-Lived Radionuclides and Decay Corrections  
4.7 Calibration Frequency  


In the analysis of short-lived radionuclides (e.g., short-lived noble gases), measurements should generally be made as soon as practical after collection to minimize loss by radioactive decayIn other cases, when needed to improve the detection of the longer-lived radionuclides, time should be allowed for the decay of short-lived, interfering radionuclides.
Calibrations should generally be performed at regular intervals in accordance with the frequencies established in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302.  A change in calibration frequency (an increase or decrease) should be based on the reproducibility and time stability characteristics of the systemFor example, an instrument system that gives a relatively wide range of readings when calibrated against a given standard should be recalibrated at more frequent intervals than one that gives measurements within a more narrow range.  Any monitoring system or individual measuring equipment should be recalibrated or replaced whenever it is suspected of being out of adjustment, excessively worn, or otherwise damaged and not operating properly.


Some special considerations may be applicable when measuring short-lived radionuclidesIn general, sample collection (or analysis frequencies) should take into account the half-lives of the radionuclides being measured.  This may have special applicability for continuous samples or composite samples.  It is generally best to select a compositing interval (and analysis frequency) appropriate for the effluent (radionuclide) being analyzed.  In cases where the compositing interval is selected appropriately, analytical bias is minimized.  One way to avoid analytical bias is to decrease the composite sampling interval (and analysis frequency). 
4.8 Measurement Uncertainty


To minimize bias in measurements, it may be necessary to decay correct analysis results for short-lived radionuclidesLicensees should be cognizant of those situations in which analytical bias may be introduced when analyzing short-lived radionuclides and should select appropriate methods to minimize such bias.
The measurement uncertainty (formerly called measurement error) associated with the measurement of radioactive materials in effluents should be estimated.  Counting statistics can provide an estimate of the statistical counting uncertainty involved in radioactivity analyses.  Because it may be difficult to assign error terms for each parameter affecting the final measurement, detailed statistical evaluations of error are not required.  Normally, the statistical counting uncertainty decreases as the amount (concentration) of radioactivity increasesThus, for the radioactive effluent release report, the statistical counting uncertainty is typically a small component of the total uncertainty.  The sampling uncertainty is likely the largest component and includes uncertainties such as the uncertainty in volumetric and flow rate measurements and laboratory processing uncertainties.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 27
The total or expanded measurement uncertainty associated with the effluent measurement should ideally include the cumulative uncertainties resulting from the total operation of sampling and measurement.  Expanded uncertainty should be reported with measurement results.  The objective should be to evaluate only the important contributors and obtain a reasonable measure of the uncertainty associated with reported results. Detailed statistical and experimental evaluations are not required.  The overall objective should be to obtain an overall estimate of measurement uncertainty.  The formula for calculating the total or expanded uncertainty classically includes the square root of the sum of squares of each important contributor to the measurement uncertainty. Licensees may obtain additional information from NUREG-1576 and ANSI/HPS N13.1-1999 if there is a need to improve the estimate of uncertainty.
3.


Effluent Dispersion (Meteorology and Hydrology)
5.  Dose Assessments for Individual Members of the Public


3.1 Meteorological Data 
The regulation in 10 CFR 20.1301 establishes dose limits for individual members of the public.


Gaseous effluents discharged into the atmosphere are transported and diffused (or, in combination dispersed and, therefore diluted) as a function of (1) the atmospheric conditions in the local environment (including ambient meteorology and structural wake effects), (2) the topography of the region, and (3) the release characteristics of the effluentsIn developing and implementing a monitoring program designed to collect site-specific meteorological data, licensees should, conform to the guidance consistent with their facilitys current licensing basis but should also consider adopting the guidance in the current version of RG 1.23. The meteorological data do not need to be reported in the ARERR, but the data should be summarized and maintained as documentation (records)Licensees should prepare and maintain an annual meteorological summary report that provides the joint frequency distributions of wind direction and wind speed by atmospheric stability class (see RG 1.23, or, if applicable, Safety Guide 23, Onsite Meteorological Programs, dated February 17, 1972 (Ref. 71)) on site for the life of the plant.  In addition, the licensee should record hourly meteorological data (or shorter-term averages compatible with the appropriate dispersion models) and make the data available if needed for assessing abnormal gaseous releases.
The regulations referenced in Regulatory Positions 5.4 through 5.6 contain both dose limits and design objectives that the licensee demonstrates compliance with through calculationsTable 1 summarizes the fundamental parameters associated with the dose calculations. Regulatory Positions 5.7 and 5.8 present important concepts for these calculationsBecause of differences between NRC and EPA regulations, only demonstrating compliance with radiological effluent technical specifications (based on Appendix I to


3.2 Atmospheric Dispersion (Transport and Diffusion)  
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 26
10 CFR Part 50) does not necessarily ensure compliance with EPAs 40 CFR Part 190, Environmental Radiation Protection Standards for Nuclear Power Operations (Ref. 35), particularly if there is a direct radiation component (e.g., from BWR shine, ISFSI, or radioactive materials storage)


Site-specific meteorological data collected should be validated and used to generate gaseous effluent dispersion factors (/Q) and deposition factors (D/Q), in accordance with RG 1.111The use of long-term annual-average meteorological conditions (based on 5 or more years of data) to determine /Q
Table 1.  Parameters Associated with Dose Calculations
and D/Q is appropriate for continuous releases and for establishing instantaneous release rate set points.


This practice may also be acceptable for calculating doses from intermittent releases if the releases occur randomly and with sufficient frequency to justify the use of annual-average meteorological conditions (see RG 1.111).  
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I
10 CFR 20.1301(e)
(EPA 40 CFR Part 190)
Dose Whole Body, Max of Any Organ, Gamma Air, and Beta Air Whole Body, Thyroid, and Max of Any Organ Basis ICRP-2 EPA 40 CFR Part 190
Where Unrestricted Area Unrestricted Area Individual Receptor Real Person/Exposure Pathway (nearest real residence, real garden, real dairy/meat animal)
Real Person/Exposure Pathway (nearest real residence, real garden, real dairy/meat animal)
Origin Liquid and Gas Radioactive Waste Liquid and Gas Radioactive Waste Direct Radiation (e.g., shine, nitrogen-16, ISFSI, radioactive materials storage, outside tanks)  
Accumulated Radioactive Material (e.g.,
tritium in lake water) Not Already Included in Dose Estimates Radioactive Material Licensed Only Licensed and Unlicensed When Current year Current and Prior Years Operation


Personnel familiar with the equipment and typical site meteorological conditions should review the meteorological dataData losses can be minimized by incorporating redundant sensors and equipment, and by maintaining an adequate inventory of spares, as part of the monitoring program design.
5.1  Bounding Assessments  


Periodic data evaluation may include, but is not be limited to, promptly identifying and inspecting equipment failures and time to resolution, reviewing results of performance checks and calibrations, and confirming that measurements are within appropriate ranges (e.g., occurrence of excessive calm wind speeds, reasonable diurnal and seasonal variation of wind speed, wind direction, and temperature at each level and with height).  
Bounding assessments may be useful in those circumstances where compliance can be readily demonstrated using conservative assumptions.  For purposes of this document, the term bounding assessment means that the reported value is unlikely to be substantially underestimated (see 10 CFR 50
Appendix I, Section III). Bounding assessments for the current year do not imply the absolute bounds for future conditions.


A change in /Q (and/or D/Q) may not be the only indicator that should be reviewed.  A change in impact location should also be addressed (if not already the case)Such a change could be caused by
For example, licensees may use conservative bounding dose assessments in lieu of site-specific dose assessments of the maximum dose to individual members of the publicInstead of assessing dose from ground level effluent releases to a real individual member of the public located 2 miles from the site boundary, a conservative bounding dose assessment can be performed for a hypothetical individual located at the site boundary.
(1) an actual change in the meteorological conditions, (2) a physical change in meteorological instrumentation (i.e., mechanical versus sonic anemometry), (3) a change in data averaging approach (e.g., scalar versus vector), or (4) any combination of the above.


Invalid data should be removed from the meteorological data file prior to calculating long-term, annual-average /Q and D/Q valuesRecords of data invalidation (and if applicable, data substitution)
If bounding assumptions are made, the radioactive effluent release report should state such and should annotate the assumptions.  Hypothetical exposure pathways and locations are sometimes used for bounding dose assessments (or hazard evaluations done in accordance with 10 CFR 20.1501)See the definition of hypothetical exposure pathway in the glossary.
should also be documented and retained.


The long-term, annual-average /Q and D/Q values should be reevaluated periodically (e.g., every
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 27
3-5 years)If the periodic reevaluation indicates the controlling/limiting long-term, annual-average /Q
5.2 Individual Members of the Public 
and D/Q values are substantially nonconservative (e.g., higher by 20-30 percent or more with respect to


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 28 historical data), the licensee should ensure that the /Q and D/Q values used in the dose assessment are revised or that the ARERR addresses why such changes are not deemed necessaryAcceptable reasoning includes evaluating data anomalies, identification of failures in meteorological sensors, and documentation that the locality experienced abnormal weather patterns.
Individual members of the public reside in the unrestricted area but at times may enter the controlled area of a commercial nuclear power plant.  Each licensee is responsible for classifying individuals (by location) as either members of the public or as occupational workers. (See definition of members of the public in 10 CFR Part 20.) The annual dose limits for members of the public in the unrestricted area are 25 millirem (mrem) whole body and 75 mrem to the thyroid and 25 mrem to any other organ in accordance with the EPA regulations in 40 CFR Part 190; the limits are 100 mrem in accordance with 10 CFR 20.1301In effect, annual dose limits to members of the public while in the unrestricted area are the EPA limits of 25 mrem whole body and 75 mrem to the thyroid and 25 mrem to any other organ;
whereas the annual dose limit for a member of the public in the licensees controlled area is the NRCs total effective dose equivalent limit of 100 mrem.


3.3 Release Height
If bounding assessments are not used, licensees should perform evaluations to determine the dose to a real, maximum exposed member of the public, regardless of whether the individual is in an unrestricted area or a controlled area.  If no member of the public is allowed in the controlled area, the evaluation need consider only members of the public in the unrestricted area.  A member of the public is typically a real individual in a designated location where there is a real exposure pathway (e.g., a real garden, real cow, real goat, or actual drinking water supply) and is typically not a fictitious fencepost resident or an exposure pathway that includes a virtual goat or cow.  Licensees are encouraged (but not required) to use real individual members of the public when performing dose assessments for radioactive discharges.  Table 1 in Regulatory Guide 1.109 allows a dose evaluation to be performed at a location where an exposure pathway and dose receptor actually existed at the time of licensing.


The release height affects the dispersion (transport and diffusion) of radioactive materials, especially for downwash and building wake effectsFor facilities with ground-level, mixed-mode, and elevated releases, an evaluation should be made to determine the proper location of the maximum exposed individual member of the public. From a dispersion perspective, when determining the maximum exposure location (submersion and/or deposition), the evaluation should consider the magnitude of the release(s) originating as an elevated release and as a ground-level release.  For example, a close-in, downwind location in one sector may have a higher /Q (i.e., less dispersion) for a ground-level release, whereas the majority of the source term may be originating as an elevated release, causing a higher concentration () at a more distant location, possibly in a different sector.  RG 1.111 contains a more complete discussion of release height.
5.3 Occupancy Factors  


3.4 Aquatic Dispersion (Surface Waters)
For members of the public in the unrestricted area, occupancy factors should be assumed to be
100 percent at locations identified in the land use census, unless site-specific information indicates otherwise.  Occupancy factors may be applied inside the controlled area based on estimated hours spent in the controlled area.


Liquid radioactive effluents may be disposed in accordance with 10 CFR 20.2001 into a variety of receiving surface water bodies, including nontidal rivers, lakes, reservoirs, settling ponds, cooling ponds, estuaries, and open coastal waters. This effluent is dispersed by various mechanisms (i.e., turbulent mixing; stream flow in the water bodies; and internal circulation or flow-through in lakes, reservoirs, and cooling ponds).  Parameters influencing the dispersion patterns and concentrations near a site include the direction and speed of flow of currents, both natural and plant induced, in the receiving water; the intensity of turbulent mixing; the size, geometry, and bottom topography of the receiving water; the location of effluent discharge in relation to the receiving water surface and shoreline; the amount of recirculation of previously discharged effluent; the characteristics of suspended and bottom sediments; and sediment sorption properties.  RG 1.113 describes calculational models for estimating aquatic dispersion to surface water bodies.  However, the dispersion characteristics may be highly site dependent, and local characteristics should be considered when performing dispersion modeling and dose assessments.
5.4  10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I  


3.5 Spills and Leaks to the Ground Surface
Appendix I to 10 CFR Part 50 contains numerical guidance for design objectives and limiting conditions of operation for radioactive waste systems to ensure discharges of radioactive liquid and gaseous effluents to unrestricted areas are ALARA.  This numerical guidance is listed in terms of annual air doses (gamma and beta), annual total body doses, and annual organ doses (see below).  License technical specifications require that exposure to liquid and gaseous effluents conform to the numerical guidance in 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I.  Per 10 CFR 50.34a, Design Objectives for Equipment to Control Releases of Radioactive Material in EffluentsNuclear Power Reactors, these numerical guides for design objectives and limiting conditions of operation are not to be construed as radiation protection standards.  For these dose calculations, the following terms are generally used: 


Liquid releases onto the land surface are transported and diluted as a function of site-specific hydrologic features, events, and processes and properties of the effluent.  The releases may temporarily accumulate, pool, or run off to natural or engineered drainage systems.  During this process, water may also be absorbed into the soil (see Section 3.6).  RG 1.113 discusses the use of simple models to estimate transport through surface water bodies and considers water usage effects.  Spills or leaks of radioactive material to the ground surface should initiate characterization of the runoff.  At a minimum, the characterization activities should satisfy (1) the requirements of 10 CFR 50.75(g) and (2) the effluent reporting requirements of 10 CFR 50.36a, and the guidance described in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 for planned effluents (e.g., sampling before discharge to unrestricted areas). 
1.
Sections 9.5.1, 9.5.2, and 9.5.9 of this RG contain recommendations on the general format for reporting abnormal releases to onsite areas and abnormal discharges to unrestricted areas.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 29
air doses (gamma and beta), total body doses, and organ doses (based on International Commission on Radiation Protection (ICRP)-2, Report of Committee II on Permissible Dose for Internal Radiation, issued 1959 (Ref. 36)); 
3.6 Spills and Leaks to Groundwater


Liquid radioactive leaks and spills are sometimes released to onsite groundwater or discharged to offsite groundwater.  Leaks and spills onto the ground surface can be absorbed into the soil.  Depending on the local soil properties and associated liquid flux of the release, some of the material in the leak or spill may eventually reach the local water table.  The dispersion of this material depends on the local subsurface geology and hydrogeologic characteristics.  Liquid releases into the subsurface will be transported as a function of groundwater flow processes and conditions (e.g., hydraulic gradients, permeability, porosity, and geochemical processes) and will eventually be released to the unrestricted area.
2.


A groundwater conceptual site model should be developed to predict the subsurface water flow parameters to include direction and rate and to be used as the basis for estimating the dispersion of abnormal releases of liquid effluents into groundwater (see RG 4.1 and RG 4.25). Section A of this RG
effluent discharges only (excludes direct radiation from the facility and ISFSIs);  
lists references for use in developing an adequate groundwater conceptual site model.


Simple analytical models or more rigorous numerical codes (i.e., simulations) may be used to evaluate subsurface transport following a release.  Appropriate use of these models and codes will depend on the release rate, depth of the release, depth to the local water table, groundwater flow directions, groundwater flow rates, geochemical conditions, and other geochemical processes (e.g., geochemical retardation).  Additionally, water usage, such as groundwater pumping from wells, may create local groundwater depression(s) that can alter the natural groundwater flow.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 28
3.


Consistent with 10 CFR 20.1501, a basic site hydrogeological characterization, in advance of leaks or spills, is helpful for evaluating potential leaks and spills.  Sites with significant residual radioactivity (see definition in the glossary) that are likely to exceed the radiological criteria for unrestricted use at the time of decommissioning (e.g., as described in 10 CFR 20.1402) should perform more extensive evaluation.  Initial assessments should be conducted with relatively simple conceptual site models using scoping surveys, bounding assumptions, or a combination of both (see RG 4.25 and American National Standards Institute/American Nuclear Society (ANSI/ANS) 2.17-2009, Evaluation of Subsurface Radionuclide Transport at Commercial Nuclear Power Production Facilities (Ref. 72). The complexity of the models should increase as (1) more knowledge is obtained about the system under evaluation (e.g., source of leak, plume size, concentrations, radionuclides, site characteristics, presence of preferential flow pathways) and (2) the dose estimates rise above significant residual radioactivity levels.
current annual period (excludes accumulated radioactivity from prior-year effluents); and   


Industry documents ANSI N2.17, as well as EPRI Groundwater Monitoring Guidance for Nuclear Power Plants, Report No. 1011730, (Ref. 73) and EPRI Groundwater Protection Guidelines for Nuclear Power Plants, Rev. 1, Report No. 3002000546 (Ref. 74) contain details of various industry practices that may be used as part of a groundwater monitoring program.  Sites with low-level spills or leaks generally do not require extensive site characterization and monitoring.
4.


The following are basic steps in monitoring groundwater contamination:
unrestricted area (excludes individuals in the restricted areas and controlled areas). 


1. Use the conceptual site model (as necessary) to assist in monitoring, evaluating, and reporting radioactive releases and radioactive discharges.
When calculating air doses licensees should assure that for any location outside the site boundary doses do not exceed the 10 CFR 50 Appendix I design objectives. Calculation of air dose at the site boundary would assure the most conservative calculation of air doses for ground-level releases.  This may not be true for elevated releases.  Licensees should select a location that assures the most conservative calculation of air dose.


2. Collect empirical data by one or more of the following (as necessary):
5.5  10 CFR 20.1301(a) through (c)


a. Sample and analyze groundwater from existing monitoring wells.
This regulation specifies dose limits for members of the public from licensed operation of the facility. These limits apply to doses resulting from licensed and unlicensed radioactive material and from radiation sources other than background radiation (see 10 CFR 20.1001, Purpose).  Demonstration of compliance with the limits of 40 CFR Part 190 will be considered to also demonstrate compliance with the
0.1 rem total effective dose equivalent limit of 10 CFR 20.1301(a) (Ref. 37).  


b. Conduct additional hydrogeologic testing using existing wells (or new wells) if required.
5.6  10 CFR 20.1301(e)


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 30
For those facilities subject to EPAs generally applicable environmental radiation standards promulgated in 40 CFR Part 190, licensees must assess the highest cumulative (whole body and organ)
doses from the uranium fuel cycle to a real individual outside the site boundary.  The limits include (1)
contributions from current-year effluents, (2) current-year direct radiation from the facility, and
(3) accumulated radioactivity from prior-year effluents that are not already included in items 1 and 2.


3. Test the conceptual site model and radionuclide transport predictions using groundwater sample results and data collected during hydrogeologic testing.
These requirements include the following considerations: 


4. Modify conceptual site model and radionuclide transport parameters as necessary to predict discharges and assess doses to members of the public.
1.


5. Use an iterative process and revaluate as needed.
Whole body and organ doses (ICRP-2 concepts).  


The groundwater monitoring results should be used in the development and testing of a conceptual site model to predict radionuclide transport in groundwater.  The conceptual site model is generally considered adequate when it predicts the results of monitoring (sometimes called a calibrated model).  Groundwater monitoring results evaluate the validity of the conceptual site model.  Following a leak or spill of licensed (radioactive) material, the conceptual site model may be used in conjunction with radionuclide transport modeling and groundwater monitoring to comprise a basis for predicting future effluents from the site.  Dispersion and dilution occur over time and in three dimensions.
2.


When used with a strategic and carefully planned monitoring program, the conceptual site model can ensure that necessary and reasonable surveys are performed (i.e., limited scoping surveys or more extensive surveys).  Limited scoping surveys can determine if significant residual radioactivity exists and if there is adequate protection of public health and safety.  If the limited scoping surveys identify significant residual radioactivity, then the extent of the contamination should be further evaluated by more extensive surveys (e.g., monitoring wells or other evaluations as appropriate).  These survey activities may be direct (i.e., occurring at, or very near, the source of the leak) or indirect (i.e., occurring at some distance from the source of the leak) depending on the accessibility of the source of the spill or leak and the mobility of the radionuclides.
Any member of the public means any individual except when that individual is receiving an occupational dose.


For spills or leaks occurring below the soil surface in inaccessible locations, direct scoping and characterization may not be feasible.  In these cases, indirect monitoring techniques (e.g., groundwater monitoring wells in a down-gradient direction) will satisfy existing regulatory requirements.  These survey activities should, at a minimum, satisfy (1) the requirements of 10 CFR 50.75(g) and (2) the effluent reporting requirements of 10 CFR 50.36a for groundwater discharges to the unrestricted area.  In general, licensees should describe (report) leaks and spills of radioactive material in the ARERR for the calendar year the spill or leak occurred.  Additionally, licensees should report groundwater monitoring data in the ARERR for the calendar year in which the data were collected.  Sections 9.5.1, 9.5.2, and 9.5.9 of this RG contain guidance on the general format for reporting abnormal releases to onsite areas and abnormal discharges to unrestricted areas.
3.


Although licensees may conduct a groundwater monitoring effort for different reasons, for purposes of this RG, the surveys, characterization activities, conceptual site models, and other components of any groundwater monitoring effort should be sufficient to do the following:  
The unrestricted area means in the general environment outside the (boundaries of)
locations under the control of persons possessing or using radioactive material.  This is the area outside the site boundary, excluding the controlled area and the restricted area. (See the definition of generally applicable environmental radiation standards in
10 CFR 20.1003, Definitions.)


1. Appropriately report, for purposes of accountability, effluents discharged to unrestricted areas.
4.


2. Document information in a format consistent with Table A-6 and Section 9.5 of this RG.
Current-year effluents includes both normal and abnormal discharges to the unrestricted area.


3. Provide advance indication of potential future discharges to unrestricted areas (to ensure releases are planned and monitored before discharge). 
5.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 31
Current-year direct radiation includes all direct radiation from the facility (e.g., radioactive waste storage and ISFSIs) but excludes doses from radioactive waste shipments.
4. Demonstrate that significant residual radioactivity has not migrated off site to an unrestricted area in the annual reporting interval.


5. Communicate relevant information as described in Section 9.5 of this guide.
6.


4.
Cumulative dose means the sum of (1) current-year effluent dose, (2) current-year direct radiation dose, and (3) dose from accumulated radioactivity if not already included in the first two categories.


Quality Assurance
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 29
7.


4.1 Quality Assurance Programs 
Accumulated radioactivity includes radioactive material in the unrestricted area from prior-year discharges that remains in the environment (e.g., tritium in lake water or radionuclides).  


The analytical process should use a range of QA checks and tests.  RG 4.15 describes the QA
8.
program activities for ensuring that radioactive effluent monitoring systems and operational programs meet their intended purpose.  Each licensees licensing basis determines the applicability of Revision 1 or Revision 2.  However, RG 4.15, Revision 2 contains guidance on determining appropriate sensitivity levels for analytical instrumentation based on DQOs.  The use of DQOs may provide a better technical basis for determining sensitivity levels (e.g., LLDs) than the use of the default values in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302.  A combination approach using both Revision 1 and Revision 2 of RG 4.15 may be used to determine appropriate sensitivity levels (e.g., LLDs) different (i.e., higher or numerically larger)
than those listed in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302.


4.2 Quality Control Checks 
The uranium fuel cycle excludes uranium mining, radioactive waste shipping (in the unrestricted area), operations at waste disposal sites, and reuse of non-uranium special nuclear materials (see definition of uranium fuel cycle in 40 CFR Part 190, also in Glossary of this document).  


QC checks of laboratory instrumentation should be conducted daily or before use, and background variations should be monitored at regular intervals to demonstrate that a given instrument is in working condition and functioning properlyQC records should include results of routine tests and checks, background data, calibrations, and all routine maintenance and service.
5.7 Dose Assessments for 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I


4.3 Surveillance Frequencies 
Dose assessments to show compliance with technical specification requirements for meeting the numerical values of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, design objectives should include quarterly and annual doses using the considerations of Regulatory Position 5.4. They should be reported in a format similar to that shown in Table A-4 in the appendix to this regulatory guide and include the items listed below:


Routine qualitative tests and checks (e.g., channel operational tests, channel checks, or source checks to demonstrate that a given instrument is in working condition and functioning properly) may be performed using radioactive sources that are not traceable by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).  The schedule for source checks, channel checks, channel calibrations, and channel operational tests should be in accordance with NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302, unless otherwise modified after a technical evaluation demonstrates a justifiable change in frequency.  A technical evaluation that revises a surveillance frequency should include consideration of the instruments function and the consequences of failure and not simply rely on the history of successful surveillances.
1.


4.4 Procedures 
doses from liquid effluents a.


Individual written procedures should be used to establish specific methods of calibrating installed radiological monitoring systems and grab sampling equipment.  Written procedures should document calibration practices used for ancillary equipment and systems (e.g., meteorological equipment, airflow measuring equipment, in-stack monitoring pitot tubes).  Calibration procedures may be compilations of published standard practices or manufacturers instructions that accompany purchased equipment, or they may be written in house to include special methods or items of equipment not covered elsewhere.
total body dose, quarterly and annual, b.


Calibration procedures should identify the specific equipment or group of instruments to which the procedures apply.
organ dose, quarterly and annual (maximum, any organ), and c.


Written procedures should be used for maintaining counting room instrument accuracy, including maintenance, storage, and use of radioactive reference standards; instrumentation calibration methods;
percent of limits for each of the above.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 32 and QC activities such as collection, reduction, evaluation, and reporting of QC data as required by the technical specifications.
2.


4.5 Calibration of Laboratory Equipment and Routine Effluent Radiation Monitors 
doses from gaseous effluents a.


Calibrations (e.g., of laboratory equipment and continuous radiation monitoring systems used to quantify radioactive effluents) should be performed using the general principles for calibration of effluent monitoring instrumentation provided in ANSI N42.18-2004 and ANSI N323C-2009, American National Standard for Radiation Protection Instrumentation Test and CalibrationAir Monitoring Instruments, American National Standards Institute (Ref. 75), using radioactive calibration sources traceable to the NIST.  Calibration sources should have the necessary accuracy, stability, and radioactivity levels required for their intended use.  The relationship between concentrations and monitor readings should be determined.  Performance of the monitoring system should be judged on the basis of reproducibility, time stability, and sensitivity.
beta and gamma air doses, quarterly and annual, b.


Periodic inservice correlations that relate monitor readings to the concentrations, release rates of radioactive material in the monitored release path, or a combination of both, should be performed when possible to validate the adequacy of the system.  These correlations should be based on the results of analyses for specific radionuclides in grab samples from the release path.
organ dose commitment from iodine, tritium, and particulate releases with half-lives greater than 8 days, quarterly and annual, and c.


The use of NIST-traceable sources combined with mathematical efficiency calibrations may be applied to instrumentation used for radiochemical analysis (e.g., gamma spectroscopy systems) if employing a method provided by the instrument manufacturer.
percent of limit for each of the above.


4.6 Calibration of Measuring and Test Equipment 
An evaluation of the local exposure pathways to determine the maximum exposed member of the public should be performed.  However, maximum doses from various exposure pathways are not additive from different locations. For example, dose from a downstream drinking water exposure pathway should not be added to the dose to an upstream resident whose exposure is from gaseous effluents and direct radiation unless that individuals drinking water is obtained from the down stream location.


Measuring and test equipment should be calibrated using NIST-traceable radioactive sources.
Maximum doses to real individuals are assessed as described in Regulatory Guide 1.109.  The locations and exposure pathways are those where real individuals are present and exposed.  Maximum exposed individuals are characterized as maximum with regard to food consumption, occupancy, and other usage of the region in the vicinity of the plant site.  For example, licensees should make maximum assumptions for food consumption and occupancy factors at actual locations when assessing dose to the maximum exposed individual, unless they have determined and applied site-specific (actual) data.  In lieu of assessing dose to real individuals, bounding dose assessments may also be used for compliance with
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I (see the section titled Bounding Assessments).  


The source geometries should be representative of the sample types analyzed and have the necessary accuracy, stability, and activity concentrations for their intended use.
The objective of Appendix I is to provide numerical guides for design objectives and limiting conditions for operation to ensure that radioactive effluent control equipment is effective in reducing emissions to ALARA levels.  The numerical guidance pertains to quarterly and annual dose criteria at or beyond the unrestricted area from current-year effluent discharges.  The Appendix I related calculations do not include dose from radioactivity in prior-year, accumulated, effluent discharges (e.g., last years radioactivity remaining in lake water is excluded).  Note:  However, the dose calculations for  


4.7 Calibration Frequency  
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 30
demonstrating compliance with the EPA limits do include accumulated radioactivity(See Section 5.8 below.)


Calibrations should generally be performed at regular intervals in accordance with the frequencies established in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302A change in calibration frequency (an increase or decrease) should be based on the reproducibility and time stability characteristics of the systemFor example, an instrument system that gives a relatively wide range of readings when calibrated against a given standard should be recalibrated at more frequent intervals than one that gives measurements within a more-narrow range.  Any monitoring system or individual measuring equipment should be recalibrated or replaced whenever it is suspected of being out of adjustment, excessively worn, or otherwise damaged and not operating properly.
The exposure pathways and routes of exposure identified in Regulatory Guide 1.109 and other exposure pathways and routes of exposure that may arise because of unique conditions at a specific site should be considered if they are likely to contribute significantly to the total dose.  Other exposure pathways are considered significant if a conservative evaluation yields an additional dose increment equal to or more than 10 percent of the total from all exposure pathways considered in RG 1.109 (see the regulatory position C in Regulatory Guide 1.109)An evaluation of other exposure pathways (not included in dose assessments) should be performed and maintained for purposes of demonstrating compliance with staff position C in Regulatory Guide 1.109A thoroughly designed and documented evaluation of a less significant release point could also assist in the evaluation and characterization of abnormal releases and abnormal discharges.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 33
Real exposure pathways are identified for routine discharges and direct radiation based on the results of the land use census. Dose calculations should typically be performed based on real exposure pathways.  Conversely, dose assessments (i.e., surveillances and dose calculations) are not needed for exposure pathways that do not exist at a site.  For example, if the land use census does not identify the existence of an ingestion exposure pathway involving a milk animal, the licensee is not required to assess that route of exposure for the ingestion exposure pathway. Similarly, if a licensee discharges liquid radioactive waste to a body of water (either surface water or ground water) and that body of water is not used as a source of drinking water (either private or public), a drinking water assessment is not required.
4.8 Measurement Uncertainty


The measurement uncertainty (formerly called measurement error) associated with the measurement of radioactive materials in effluents should be estimated.  Counting statistics can provide an estimate of the statistical counting uncertainty involved in radioactivity analyses.  Because it may be difficult to assign error terms for each parameter affecting the final measurement, detailed statistical evaluations of error are not required. Normally, the statistical counting uncertainty decreases as the amount (concentration) of radioactivity increasesThus, for the radioactive effluent release report, the statistical counting uncertainty is typically a small component of the total uncertainty. The sampling uncertainty is likely the largest component and includes uncertainties such as the uncertainty in volumetric and flow-rate measurements and laboratory processing uncertainties.
For purposes of reporting information in the ARERR, there is a distinction between dose assessments for Appendix I to 10 CFR Part 50 and hazard assessments that may be conducted for on-site spills and leaks as outlined in 10 CFR 20.1501 (where bounding estimates may be necessary).  (See bounding dose estimates in Section 5.1.)


The total or expanded measurement uncertainty associated with the effluent measurement should ideally include the cumulative uncertainties resulting from the total operation of sampling and measurementExpanded uncertainty should be reported with measurement results.  The objective should be to evaluate only the important contributors and obtain a reasonable measure of the uncertainty associated with reported results.  Detailed statistical and experimental evaluations are not required.  The overall objective should be to obtain an overall estimate of measurement uncertainty.  The formula for calculating the total or expanded uncertainty classically includes the square root of the sum of squares of each important contributor to the measurement uncertaintyLicensees may obtain additional information from NUREG-1576 and ANSI/HPS N13.1-2011.
5.8 Dose Assessments for 10 CFR 20.1301(e)  


4.9 Calibration of Accident-Range Radiation Monitors and Accident-Range Effluent Monitors
To show compliance with 10 CFR 20.1301(e), dose assessments should be reported according to the generally applicable environmental radiation standards promulgated by EPA at 40 CFR Part 190, with consideration of Regulatory Position 5.6 and in a format similar to that shown in Table A-5 of the appendix to this guide.


GDC 64 requires means for monitoring radioactivity in the reactor containment atmosphere;
5.8.1 The following should be reported:
spaces containing components for recirculation of loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA) fluids; effluent discharge paths; and the plant environs for radioactivity that may be released from normal operations, including anticipated operational occurrences, and from postulated accident
1.


====s. The regulation at ====
whole body dose to the maximum individual member of the public
10 CFR 20.1501(c) requires periodic calibration of instruments and equipment used to perform quantitative radiation measurements (e.g., dose rate and effluent monitoring).  
2.


NUREG-0737, Item II.F.1, provides guidance for monitoring radiation levels and gaseous effluent during postulated radiological emergencies.  RG 1.97, Revisions 2 and 3, provide guidance on the design and performance criteria of instrumentation used to assess plant and environ conditions during and following an accident.  This RG 1.21 provides further guidance on the calibration of such instrumentation based on the NRCs Proposed Guidance for Calibration and Surveillance Requirements to Meet Item II.F.1 of NUREG-0737, issued August 1982 (Ref. 76).  NUREG/CR-5569, Health Physics Positions Data Base, Health Physics Position (HPPOS)-001, Proposed Guidance for Calibration and Surveillance Requirements to Meet Item II.F.1 of NUREG-0737, issued February 1994 (Ref. 77), summarizes this additional guidance.
thyroid dose to the maximum individual member of the public
3.


Noble Gas Monitoring - NUREG-0737, Item II.F.1-1, describes accident-range noble gas effluent monitors as monitors that are normally noble gas gross activity monitors sensitive to gamma emissions, beta emissions, or a mix of gamma and beta emissions.  These monitors normally indicate (read out) in units of activity concentration, a count rate, or a dose rate (i.e., an indirect measurement of the noble gas gross activity concentration).  Therefore, in order to determine the release rate of noble gas gross activity, a conversion factor (i.e., hereafter referred to as an instrument response factor) should be developed to convert the instrument output into an activity concentration for use in determining a release rate (e.g., curies per second of a mix of noble gases).  
dose to any other organ to the maximum individual member of the public
4.


The initial vendor calibration of emergency effluent monitoring instruments may be a one-time
percent of the applicable limit


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 34 prototype calibration based on the initial calibration of a single instrument of a certain model using NIST-traceable radiation sources. This initial prototype calibration of a single instrument model and subsequent calibration of production detectors determine the fundamental detector characteristics, such as the following:  
5.8.2 One means of demonstrating compliance with 40 CFR Part 190 is listed in the Federal Register
(42 FR 2859), (Ref. 38), which states the following:  


1. a dose-rate linearity check using a radioactive gas or solid source (e.g., cesium (Cs)-137) to obtain three on-scale values separated by two decades of scale; 
In the case of light water reactors, demonstrating conformance with Appendix I of 10 CFR 50 are generally adequate for demonstrating compliance with [EPA 40 CFR Part 190].


2. a measurement of the instruments response factor to a calibration gas (e.g., xenon (Xe)-133 or krypton (Kr)-85); 
As a result, a licensee who (1) can demonstrate that external sources of direct radiation are indistinguishable from background and who (2) demonstrates compliance with the numerical dose


3. a characterization of the instruments energy-dependency characteristics, using solid sources ranging in gamma energy from low energy (e.g., 81 kiloelectron volts) to high energy (e.g., 2 megaelectron volts); and 
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 31 guidance of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, may cite the above reference as the basis for demonstrating compliance with 40 CFR Part 190.


4. a determination, using a solid source, of a transfer factor that provides a dual purpose:
However, licensees who (1) have external sources of direct radiation that are above background and (2) demonstrate compliance with the numerical dose guidance of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, must also include sources of direct radiation from uranium fuel cycle operations (e.g., including direct radiation from the licensed facility as well as co-located or nearby nuclear power facilities if appropriate).


a. for use by vendors to validate that subsequent instruments produced for sale of the same model have similar performance characteristics to the initial type instrument models characteristics; and
5.8.3 The dose contributions from direct radiation may be estimated based on either (1) direct radiation measurements (e.g., thermoluminescent dosimeters, optically stimulated devices, or integrating portable ion chambers), (2) calculations, or (3) a combination of measurements and calculations. When direct radiation dose is determined by measurement, estimates of background levels of radiation may be subtracted based on selected control locations.  The doses measured from control and indicator locations should be taken from the same time period.  When choosing the appropriate control location(s), licensees should consider the historical variability in doses measured at the control and indicator locations.  Several sources contain additional information regarding background subtraction for thermoluminescent dosimeters (Refs. 39, 40, 41, and 42).  Methods of determining dose from direct radiation to the maximum exposed individual member of the public may also include extrapolation methods.


b. for use by end users (e.g., nuclear power plants) in performing post installation and subsequent periodic calibration to verify that the instruments installed in the facility are functioning consistently with respect to initial vendor calibration of that instrument model.
Licensees must demonstrate compliance with 10 CFR 20.1301(e) for the generally applicable environmental radiation standards promulgated in 40 CFR Part 190.  These include the concept of a total dose (to the whole body and to any organ) from all sources related to the uranium fuel cycle.


Time-dependent (i.e., time since reactor shutdown) instrument response factors may be developed for each major accident type (i.e., a small-break LOCA with normal reactor coolant system activity levels, a large-break LOCA with gas gap activity levels, or a core-melt accident with noble gas activity levels arising from the fuel pellets release of noble gas).  Each accident type has a characteristic, time-dependent noble gas isotopic mixIn general terms, a small-break LOCA has a substantially decayed noble gas mix from the reactor coolant system with predominantly low-energy gamma photons; a large-break LOCA has a somewhat decayed noble gas mix from the gas gap of the fuel assemblies with predominately medium- energy gamma photons; and a core-melt accident has a substantially undecayed mix of noble gas isotopes in the fuel pellets with predominately high-energy gamma photons.
Contributions to the total dose from radioactive effluents (liquid and gaseous) and direct radiation should be included, if applicable.  Other sources (e.g., accumulated radioactive materials in offsite ponds or lakes from previous years discharges) should also be included, if applicable, when estimating the total doseHowever, if the contributions from direct radiation or accumulated radioactivity are generally minor (as evaluated and documented in a licensee technical evaluation as not contributing to the total dose), these contributions need not be included in the total dose evaluation, but the basis for exclusion should be documented.


The time-dependent instrument response factor accounts for the detectors energy efficiency at various gamma energies of the noble gas isotopic mix for that accident typeThe instrument response factor normally has units of microcuries per cubic centimeter (µCi/cc) per count per minute or µCi/cc per milliroentgen per hour where the µCi/cc is the gross (total) summation of all the noble gas activities in the isotopic mix for each major type of accident listed above. It is also acceptable to use instrument response factors based on a single calibration gas with a low-energy gamma source (e.g., Xe-133) or beta emissions (e.g., Kr-85) for beta sensitive monitors.
5.9 Dose Calculations  


The initial calibration process performed by the vendor does not need to be repeated at a nuclear power plant. Instead, a periodic single point source response check of the instruments performance as compared to a transfer factor provided by the vendor using a solid source - see ANSI N320-1978, Performance Specifications for Reactor Emergency Radiological Monitoring Instrumentation (Ref. 78).   
Acceptable dose assessment models, such as those provided in Regulatory Guides 1.109, 1.111,
1.112, Calculation of Releases of Radioactive Materials in Gaseous and Liquid Effluents from Light- Water-Cooled Power Reactors, (Ref. 43) and 1.113, should be used to make dose calculationsWhen calculating organ doses from airborne effluents, contributions from I-131, I-133, tritium, and radionuclides in particulate form with half-lives greater than 8 days should be included in the assessment.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 35 Iodine and Particulate Monitoring - NUREG-0737, Item II.F.1-2, provides guidance on iodine and particulate effluent monitoring by sampling and analysisReal-time monitoring is not required or considered practical; however, the licensees should have established procedures for collection of iodine and particulate samples and subsequent analysis to determine the release rate. For emergency dose assessment purposes, RASCAL (NUREG-1940 Section 1.2.8) can also be used to assess a real-time iodine and particulate release rate based on partitioning (scaling) factors to noble gases.
6Solid Radioactive Waste Shipped for Processing or Disposal  


Containment High Range Monitoring - NUREG-0737, Item II.F.1-3, provides guidance on calibration of containment high-range monitorsAn in-place calibration should be performed using a radioactive source at one point on the decade below 10 roentgens per hour (R/hr).  Instrument scales in the range of 10 R/hr to 1E7 R/hr should be checked using electronic signal substitution with a calibrated current source to demonstrate that the system is functioning to higher radiation fields.
Solid radioactive waste shipments should be reported in a format similar to that of Table A-3 in Appendix A to this guide.  The data should be divided by waste classification and by the waste stream categories listed in Table A-3. The waste streams are (1) resins, filters, and evaporator bottoms, (2) dry active waste, (3) irradiated components, and (4) other wasteThe data reported should be for the low-level waste (LLW) volumes shipped from a plant site for waste processing or disposal (not the radioactive waste volumes that are ultimately buried).  


Containment high-range monitors should be used to assess the amount of core damage and to assess the source terms for the containment leakage release pathwayNUREG-1940, Section 1.2.4, Figures 1-1 through 1-5, provide information for PWRs and BWRs at 1 hour and 24 hours after reactor shutdown that correlates the containment radiation monitor readings to the amount of reactor damage for normal coolant, spiked coolant, cladding failure, and core melt accident scenarios.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 32 Note:  Data on LLW disposed in licensed LLW disposal facilities is available using the Manifest Information Management System (MIMS) operated by the Department of EnergyThere are no requirements for reporting storage of LLW at nuclear power plants. However, LLW storage records are maintained at nuclear plants and are available for NRC inspection during routine effluent inspections.


5.
Shipments that do not need to be reported include shipments of metal melt, contaminated equipment for transfer between licensees or equipment for refurbishment, contaminated laundry (either launderable or dissolvable), or radioactive samples for analysis.  Potentially contaminated dry active waste sent for resurvey and segregation (sometimes referred to as green is clean) does not need to be reported.


Dose Assessments for Individual Members of the Public
Equipment shipped for decontamination and free release does not need to be reported.  However, records of these types of shipments should be maintained on site.


The regulation in 10 CFR 20.1301 establishes dose limits for individual members of the public8.
The total curie quantity and major radionuclides in the solid waste shipped off site should be determined and reported in a format similar to that of Table A-3.


The regulations referenced in Sections 5.4-5.6 of this RG contain both dose limits and design objectives that the licensee demonstrates compliance with through calculations.  Table 1 summarizes the fundamental parameters associated with the dose calculations.  RG Sections 5.7 and 5.8 present important concepts for these calculationsBecause of differences between NRC and EPA regulations, demonstrating compliance only with radiological effluent technical specifications (based on
7.  Reporting Errata in Effluent Release Reports 
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I) does not necessarily ensure compliance with the EPAs 40 CFR Part 190,
particularly if there is a direct radiation component (e.g., from BWR shine, ISFSI, or radioactive materials storage) or accumulated radioactivity from prior-year effluents.


Table 1 - Parameters Associated with Dose Calculations
Errors in radioactive effluent release reports should be classified and reported as described below.


10 CFR PART 50, APPENDIX I
7.1  Examples of Small Errors 
per reactor
10 CFR 20.1301(e)
(EPA 40 CFR PART 190)
Uranium fuel cycle (e.g., all reactors)
Dose whole body, max of any organ, gamma air, and beta air whole body, thyroid, and max of any organ Basis International Commission on Radiation Protection (ICRP)-2, Report of Committee II on Permissible Dose for Internal Radiation, issued 1959 (Ref. 79)
EPA 40 CFR Part 190
Where unrestricted area unrestricted area


8 For ISFSIs, 10 CFR Part 72 specifies dose limits for any real individual beyond the Part 72.
Small errors may be any of the following:


controlled area boundary (excluding occupational exposures).  Thus, dose assessments performed to demonstrate compliance with the 10 CFR 72.104 must include the necessary components described in10 CFR 72.104.
1.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 36
inaccurate reporting of dose that equates to 10 percent of the applicable 10 CFR 50
Appendix I design objective or 10 percent of the EPA public dose criterion,  


10 CFR PART 50, APPENDIX I
2.
per reactor
10 CFR 20.1301(e)
(EPA 40 CFR PART 190)
Uranium fuel cycle (e.g., all reactors)
Individual Receptor real person/exposure pathway (nearest real residence, real garden, real dairy/meat animal)
real person/exposure pathway (nearest real (residence, real garden, real dairy/meat animal)
Origin liquid and gas radioactive waste liquid and gas radioactive waste, direct radiation (e.g., nitrogen-16 shine, ISFSI, radioactive materials storage, outside tanks), accumulated radioactive material from prior-year effluents (e.g., tritium in lake water) not already included in dose estimates Radioactive Material licensed only (per Appendix I,
Section II radioactive materials - see Section 5.4 below)
licensed and unlicensed (see Section 5.6 below)
When current year current and prior years operation


5.1 Bounding Assessments 
inaccurate reporting of curies (or release rates, volumes, etc.) that equate to 10 percent of the affected curie total (or release rate, volume, etc.), after correction; 


Bounding assessments may be useful if compliance can be readily demonstrated using conservative assumptions.  In this RG, the term bounding assessment means that the reported value is unlikely to be substantially underestimated (see 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, Section III).  Bounding assessments for the current year do not imply the absolute bounds for future conditions.
3.


For example, licensees may use conservative bounding dose assessments in lieu of site-specific dose assessments of the maximum dose to individual members of the public.  Instead of assessing dose from ground-level effluent releases to a real individual member of the public located 3.2 km (2 miles)
omissions that do not impede the NRCs ability to adequately assess the information supplied by the licensee, or 
from the site boundary, a conservative bounding dose assessment can be performed for a hypothetical individual member of the public located at the site boundary.


If bounding assumptions are made, the radioactive effluent release report should state such and should annotate the assumptions. Hypothetical exposure pathways (see definition in the glossary) and locations are sometimes used for bounding dose assessments (or hazard evaluations done in accordance with 10 CFR 20.1501). 
4.


5.2 Individual Members of the Public 
typographical errors or other errors that do not alter the intent of the report.


Individual members of the public reside in the unrestricted area but at times may enter the controlled area or restricted area. Each licensee is responsible for classifying individuals as either members of the public or as occupational workers (see the definition of member of the public in
7.2 Reporting Small Errors 
10 CFR Part 20.)  The NRC annual dose limits for members of the public (regardless of their location in the restricted area, controlled area or unrestricted area) are 100 mrem total effective dose equivalent in accordance with 10 CFR 20.1301(a) and (b).   


The dose criteria in Technical Specifications conforming to 10 CFR 50, Appendix I are for members of the public in the unrestricted area. In addition, in accordance with 10 CFR 20.1301(e) for uranium fuel cycle licensees (including nuclear power plants), the annual dose limits to members of the public in the unrestricted area are the EPA 40 CFR Part 190 limits of 25 mrem whole body, 75 mrem to the thyroid, and 25 mrem to any other organ while in the unrestricted area.
Small errors should be corrected within one year of discovery, and the correction may be submitted with the next (normally scheduled) submittal of the ARERR as follows.  A brief narrative explanation of the errors should be included in Section 8, Errata/Corrections to Previous ARERRs, of Table A-6, Supplemental Information.  The narrative should include a statement that the affected pages, in their entirety, are included as attachments to the ARERR. Additionally, the affected, corrected pages, in their entirety, should be submitted as an attachment (or addendum) to the ARERR.  The corrected pages should reference the affected calendar year and should contain revision bars in the margins of the page to indicate the locations of the changes. If submitting corrections to multiple ARERRs, make a separate attachment (or addendum) for each of the affected years.  Other methods of correcting previous ARERRs may be used provided the corrections are clearly and completely described.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 37
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 33
7.3 Examples of Large Errors 


For demonstration of compliance with Technical Specifications conforming to 10 CFR 50,
Large errors may be any of the following:
Appendix I, if bounding assessments are not used, licensees should perform evaluations to determine the dose to a real, maximum exposed member of the public in the unrestricted area.  A member of the public in the unrestricted area is typically a real individual in a designated location where there is a real exposure pathway (e.g., a real garden, real cow, real goat, or actual drinking water supply) and not a fictitious fencepost resident or an exposure pathway that includes a virtual goat or cow.  Licensees are encouraged (but not required) to use real individual members of the public when performing dose assessments for radioactive discharges.  Table 1 in RG 1.109 allows a dose evaluation to be performed at a location where an exposure pathway and dose receptor actually existed at the time of licensing.


5.3 Occupancy Factors 
1.


For members of the public in the unrestricted area, occupancy factors should be assumed to be
inaccurate reporting of dose that equates to >10 percent of the Appendix I or EPA
100 percent at locations identified in the land use census, unless site-specific information indicates otherwise.  Occupancy factors may be applied inside the controlled area based on estimated hours spent in the controlled area.
public dose criterion, after correction; 


5.
2.
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, Design Objectives and Limiting Conditions for Operation


Appendix I to 10 CFR Part 50 contains numerical guidance for design objectives and limiting conditions of operation for radioactive waste systems on a per reactor basis to ensure discharges of radioactive liquid and gaseous effluents to unrestricted areas are ALARA.  This numerical guidance is listed in terms of annual air doses (gamma and beta), annual total body doses, and annual organ doses (see below).  Licensee technical specifications require that exposure to liquid and gaseous effluents conform to the numerical guidance in 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I.  In accordance with 10 CFR 50.34a, these numerical guides for design objectives and limiting conditions of operation are not to be construed as radiation protection standards.  For these dose calculations, the following terms are generally used: 
inaccurate reporting of curies (or release rate, volume, et


1. air doses (gamma and beta), total body doses, and organ doses (based on ICRP-2),  
====c. that equate to ====
>10 percent of the affected curie total (or release rate, volume, etc.), after correction; "


2. effluent discharges only (excludes direct radiation from the facility and ISFSIs),
3.


3. current annual period (excludes accumulated radioactivity from prior-year effluents), and
omissions that may impede the NRCs ability to adequately assess the information supplied by the licensee; and  


4. unrestricted area (excludes individuals in the restricted areas and controlled areas). 
4.


When calculating air doses, licensees should assure that, for any location outside the site boundary, doses do not exceed the design objectives in 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I.  Calculation of air dose at the site boundary would assure the most conservative calculation of air doses for ground-level releases.  This may not be true for elevated releases.  Licensees should select a location that assures the most conservative calculation of air dose.
typographical errors or other errors that do significantly alter the intent of the report.


5.5    
7.4  Reporting Large Errors    
10 CFR 20.1301(a) NRC dose limits for individual members of the public


This regulation specifies dose limits for members of the public from licensed operation of the facilityThese limits apply to doses resulting from licensed and unlicensed radioactive material and from radiation sources other than background radiation (see 10 CFR 20.1001, Purpose).  The dose limits include contributions to doses from (1) current-year effluents, (2) current-year direct radiation from the  
Large errors should be corrected within 90 days of discovery.  The correction may be made by special submittal or may be submitted with the next (normally scheduled) ARERR (if the next ARERR is to be submitted within 90 days of discovery of the error).  If corrections are made by special submittal, include a brief narrative explaining the errors.  The narrative should include a statement that the affected pages, in their entirety, are included as an attachment.  Attach the affected, corrected pages, in their entiretyThe corrected pages should reference the affected calendar year and should contain revision bars in the margins of the page to indicate the locations of the changes. If submitting corrections to multiple ARERRs, make a separate attachment (or addendum) for each of the affected yearsIf corrections are made coincident with the next (normally scheduled) submittal of the ARERR, use the correction process as specified in section 7.2 (for small errors) above.  Other methods of correcting previous ARERRs may be used provided the corrections are clearly and completely described.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 38 facility, and (3) accumulated radioactivity from prior-year effluents9. The Technical Specifications establish the Radioactive Effluent Controls Program and the Environmental Monitoring Program, which establish effluent control methods sufficient to demonstrate of compliance with the NRC public dose limits in 10 CFR 20.1301(a).
8. Format and Content of the Annual Radioactive Effluent Release Report 


5.6 
In accordance with 10 CFR 50.4, Written Communications, the annual report should be submitted electronically or in a written communication. The report should consist of a summary of the numerical data in a tabular format similar to Tables A-1 through A-5 in Appendix A to this guide.
10 CFR 20.1301(e) EPA Environmental Radiation Standards for the Uranium Fuel Cycle


For those facilities subject to the EPAs generally applicable environmental radiation standards in  
Effluent data reported in Tables A-1, A-1A through A-1F, A-2, A-2A, A-2B, and A-4 should be summarized on a quarterly and annual basis. Tables A-3 and A-5 should be summarized on an annual basisIn addition to numerical data, additional supplemental information should be included containing all the information in (but not necessarily in the format of) Table A-6. Additional detail for the information contained in each of these tables is listed below.  For purposes of compliance with 10 CFR 50.36a, the ARERR must be submitted by May 1 (unless a licensing basis exists for a different submittal date) for effluents and solid waste from the previous calendar year.
40 CFR Part 190, licensees must assess the highest cumulative (whole body and organ) doses from the uranium fuel cycle to a real individual in the general environment (i.e., outside the site boundary)The dose limits include contributions to doses from (1) current-year effluents, (2) current-year direct radiation from the facility, and (3) accumulated radioactivity from prior-year effluents9. The Technical Specifications establish the Radioactive Effluent Controls Program and the Environmental Monitoring Program, which establish effluent control requirements sufficient to demonstrate compliance with the EPA public dose limits in 40 CFR Part 190 (see NUREG-0543).  


These requirements include the following considerations:  
Radionuclides that are not detected for the entire reporting period do not need to be listed in the tables (Tables A-1A through A-1F, A-2A, and A-2B).  Activity that is detected should be reported in the appropriate tables (i.e., Tables A-1, A-2, A-1A through A-1F, A-2A, and A-2B) in the ARERR, provided that the amount discharged is numerically significant with respect to the three-digit exponential format recommended for the ARERR. This should not be confused with three significant figure


1. Whole body and organ doses come from ICRP-2 concepts.
====s. Licensees may ====


2. Any member of the public means any individual except when that individual is receiving an occupational dose.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 34 round numbers according to accepted practices (e.g., refer to ASTM E-29, Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications (Ref. 48)); however, after rounding has been completed, values should be reported in the ARERR in a three-digit exponential format.


3. The unrestricted area means an area, access to which is neither limited nor controlled by the licensee. The boundaries of the unrestricted area are defined by the licensee.  (See also the definition of generally applicable environmental radiation standards in
Measurements should be reported for positive values. Some radionuclides that are detected in a year may not be detected in all quarters.  If results are determined to be below detectable levels for an entire quarter, the table entry should include a suitable designation (e.g., N/D and an accompanying footnote) to denote that measurements were performed but no activity was detected.
10 CFR 20.1003.)  


4. Current-year effluents includes both normal and abnormal discharges to the unrestricted area.
The format specified in Revision 2 of this regulatory guide differs slightly from that specified in Revision 1 of Regulatory Guide 1.21.  The format and content as specified in Revision 2 are one acceptable method of reporting the data.  Other formats may be used (e.g., some tables may be combined)
as long as the specified content is satisfied (e.g., quarterly totals and annual totals by each release category).  All plants are encouraged to use the format listed below to maximize consistency in data reporting.  This format is designed to be consistent with some commonly used electronic-data-reporting software packages.  Consistency aids review by members of the public and allows easier industry-wide comparisons of the data.


5. Current-year direct radiation includes all direct radiation from the facility (e.g., radioactive waste storage and ISFSIs) but excludes doses from radioactive waste shipments.
8.1  Gaseous Effluents 


6. Cumulative dose means the sum of (1) current-year effluent dose, (2) current-year direct radiation dose, and (3) dose from accumulated radioactivity if not already included in the first two items.
The quarterly and annual sums of all radionuclides discharged in gaseous effluents (i.e., routine and abnormal discharges, continuous, and batch) should be reported in a format similar to that of Tables A-1A through A-1F in Appendix A to this regulatory guide.  The data should then be further summarized and reported in the format of Table A-1.  Additional information on each of these tables is provided below.


7. Accumulated radioactivity includes radioactive material in the unrestricted area from prior-year discharges that remains in the environment (e.g., tritium in lake water or radionuclides).  
Table A-1, Gaseous Effluents - Summation of All Discharges, contains a summation of all gaseous effluent discharges from all release points and all modes of release. The data are subdivided by quarter and year for each radionuclide category:  (a) fission and activation gases, (b) iodines/halogens, (c) particulates, (d) tritium, and (e) gross alpha.


8. The uranium fuel cycle excludes uranium mining, radioactive waste shipping (in the unrestricted area), operations at waste disposal sites, and reuse of nonuranium special nuclear materials(See the definition of uranium fuel cycle in 40 CFR Part 190 and in the glossary of this document.)
Table A-1A, Gaseous EffluentsGround-Level ReleaseBatch Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from ground-level release points in the batch mode of release for five radionuclide categories:  fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, and gross alphaLicensees should report the following:


9 Doses from accumulated radioactivity from prior-year effluents do not need to be included in demonstration of compliance with the NRC and EPA dose limits unless the reporting levels in the environmental monitoring program associated with 10 CFR 50, Appendix I are exceeded.
1.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 39
curies of each radionuclide discharged by quarter and year, and
5.7 Dose Assessments for 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I
2.


Dose assessments to show compliance with technical specification requirements for meeting the numerical values of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, design objectives on a per reactor basis should include quarterly and annual doses using the considerations in Section 5.4 of this RG.  The dose assessments should be reported in a format similar to that shown in Table A-4 in Appendix A to this RG and include the items listed below:
total curies discharged in each radionuclide category (fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, and gross alpha) by quarter and year.


1. doses from liquid effluents
Some licensees may have surveillance requirements allowing the non-noble gas radionuclides (e.g., iodines and tritium) for some types of batch releases (e.g., containment purge) to be reported with continuous release results.  In these instances, the table entries for the affected radionuclides for batch releases should include an appropriate designation (e.g., *) and an accompanying footnote describing this situation.


a. total body dose, quarterly and annually;
Table A-1B, Gaseous Effluents - Ground-Level Release - Continuous Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from ground-level release points in the continuous mode of release for five radionuclide categories:  fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, and gross alpha.  Licensees should report the following:


b. organ dose, quarterly and annually (maximum, any organ); and
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 35


c. percent of limits for each of the above.
1.


2. doses from gaseous effluents
curies of each radionuclide discharged by quarter and year, and 
2.


a. beta and gamma air doses, quarterly and annually;
total curies discharged in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.


b. organ dose commitment from iodine, tritium, and particulate releases with half-lives greater than 8 days, quarterly and annually; and
Table A-1C, Gaseous Effluents.-.Elevated Release.-.Batch Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from elevated release points in the batch mode of release for five radionuclide categories:  fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, and gross alpha.  Licensees should report the following:


c. percent of limit for each of the above.
1.


An evaluation of the local exposure pathways to determine the maximum exposed member of the public should be performed.  However, maximum doses from various exposure pathways are not additive from different locations. For example, dose from a downstream drinking water exposure pathway should not be added to the dose to an upstream resident whose exposure is from gaseous effluents and direct radiation unless that individuals drinking water is obtained from the downstream location.
curies of each radionuclide released by quarter and year, and  
2.


Maximum doses to real individuals should be assessed as described in RG 1.109.  The locations and exposure pathways are those where real individuals are present and exposed.  Maximum exposed individuals are characterized as maximum with regard to food consumption, occupancy, and other usage in the vicinity of the plant site.  For example, licensees should make maximum assumptions for food consumption and occupancy factors at actual locations when assessing dose to the maximum exposed individual, unless they have determined and applied site -specific (actual) data.  In lieu of assessing dose to real individuals, licensee may also use bounding dose assessments for compliance with
total curies released in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I (see Section 5.1 titled Bounding Assessments).  


The objective of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, is to provide numerical guides for design objectives and limiting conditions for operation to ensure that radioactive effluent control equipment is effective in reducing emissions to ALARA levels.  The numerical guidance pertains to quarterly and annual dose criteria in the unrestricted area from current-year effluent discharges. The calculations related to Appendix I do not include dose from radioactivity in prior-year, accumulated, effluent discharges (e.g., last years radioactivity remaining in lake water is excluded).  However, the dose calculations for demonstrating compliance with the EPA limits do include accumulated radioactivity (see Section 5.8 of this RG).  
Some licensees may have surveillance requirements allowing the non-noble gas radionuclides (e.g., iodines and tritium) for some types of batch releases (e.g., containment purge) to be reported with continuous release resultsIn these instances, the table entries for the affected radionuclides for batch releases should include an appropriate designation (e.g., *) and an accompanying footnote describing this situation.


For purposes of demonstrating compliance with dose criteria for limiting dose to a member of the public in unrestricted areas in accordance with Technical Specifications conforming to 10 CFR 50,  
Table A-1D, Gaseous EffluentsElevated ReleaseContinuous Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from elevated release points in the continuous mode of release for five radionuclide categories:  fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, and gross alpha.  Licensees should report the following:


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 40
1.
Appendix I, the exposure pathways and routes of exposure identified in RG 1.109 should be considered.


An evaluation of other exposure pathways (not included in dose assessments) should be performed and maintained for purposes of demonstrating compliance with the staff position on significant exposure pathways.  Calculational procedures should be based on models and data such that the actual exposure of an individual through appropriate pathways is unlikely to be substantially underestimated. A new significant exposure pathway should be included in the demonstration of compliance if the calculated dose from that new exposure pathway exceeds 10 percent of the 10 CFR 50 Appendix I, Section II
curies of each radionuclide released by quarter and year, and   
numerical guides on design objectives. Bounding dose assessments as described in Section 5.1 of this RG
2.
may be used in evaluating the dose from any new significant exposure pathways.


Real exposure pathways are identified for routine discharges and direct radiation based on the results of the land use census.  Dose calculations should typically be performed based on real exposure pathways.  Conversely, dose assessments (i.e., surveillances and dose calculations) are not needed for exposure pathways that do not exist at a site.  For example, if the land use census does not identify the existence of an ingestion exposure pathway involving a milk animal, the licensee is not required to assess that route of exposure for the ingestion exposure pathway.  Similarly, if a licensee discharges liquid radioactive waste to a body of water (either surface water or groundwater) and that body of water is not used as a source of drinking water (either private or public), a drinking water assessment is not required.
total curies released in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.


For purposes of reporting information in the ARERR, there is a distinction between dose assessments for
Table A-1E, Gaseous EffluentsMixed Mode ReleaseBatch Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from mixed-mode release points in the continuous mode of release for five radionuclide categories:  fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, and gross alphaLicensees should report the following:
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, and hazard assessments that may be conducted for onsite spills and leaks, as outlined in 10 CFR 20.1501 (where bounding estimates may be necessary)(See the discussion of bounding dose estimates in Section 5.1 of this RG.)


5.8 Dose Assessments for 10 CFR 20.1301(e) 
1.


To show compliance with 10 CFR 20.1301(e), dose assessments should be reported according to the generally applicable environmental radiation standards in 40 CFR Part 190, with consideration of Section 5.6 of this RG, and in a format similar to Table A-5 of Appendix A to this RG.
curies of each radionuclide released by quarter and year, and
2.


1. The following should be reported:
total curies released in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.


a. whole body dose to the maximum individual member of the public,  
Some licensees may have surveillance requirements allowing the non-noble gas radionuclides (e.g., iodines and tritium) for some types of batch releases (e.g., containment purge) to be reported with continuous release results.  In these instances, the table entries for the affected radionuclides for batch releases should include an appropriate designation (e.g., *) and an accompanying footnote describing this situation.


b. thyroid dose to the maximum individual member of the public,
Table A-1F, Gaseous Effluents - Mixed Mode Release - Continuous Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from mixed-modes release points in the continuous mode of release for five radionuclide categories:  fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, and gross alpha.  Licensees should report the following:


c. dose to any other organ of the maximum individual member of the public, and
1.


d. percent of the applicable limit.
curies of each radionuclide released by quarter and year, and 
2.


2. One means of demonstrating compliance with 40 CFR Part 190 is listed in Volume 42 of the Federal Register, page 2859, which states the following:
total curies released in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.


In the case of light water reactorsdemonstrating conformance with Appendix I of 10 CFR 50 are generally adequate for demonstrating compliance with [EPA 40 CFR Part 190].
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 36
8.2 Liquid Effluents


As a result, a licensee that (1) can demonstrate that external sources of direct radiation are indistinguishable from background and (2) demonstrates compliance with the numerical dose guidance of  
The quarterly and annual sums of all radionuclides released in liquid effluents (i.e., routine and abnormal discharges, continuous, and batch) should be reported in a format similar to that of the Tables A-
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, may cite the above reference as the basis for demonstrating compliance with
2A and A-2B.  The data should then be further summarized and reported in the format of Appendix A,  
40 CFR Part 190.  The NRC provides additional guidance in NUREG-0543, Methods for Demonstrating Compliance with the EPA Uranium Fuel Cycle Standard (40 CFR Part 190).  
Table A-2.  The following provides additional information on each of these tables.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 41
Table A-2, Liquid Effluents - Summation of All Releases, contains a summation of all liquid radioactive discharges from all release points and all modes of release. The data are subdivided by quarter and year for each of the radionuclide categories:  (a) fission and activation products, (b) tritium, (c) dissolved and entrained noble gases, and (d) gross alpha. The total volume of primary coolant waste (typically batch mode releases) before dilution is also included.  In this context, primary coolant waste means the higher activity waste that generally is not discharged directly, but is instead typically processed through the liquid radioactive waste treatment system before discharge.  Various methods exist for calculating the dilution water flow rate.  Health Physics Position HPPOS-099, Attention to Liquid Dilution Volumes in Semiannual Radioactive Effluent Release Reports, issued November 1984, indicates that licensees should use the total volume of dilution flow, not just that flow during periods of liquid effluent releases (Ref. 49).  Licensees should include information describing how this value is calculated in either the ODCM or the ARERR.  Because the primary coolant waste typically accounts for the vast majority of the radioactive liquid waste discharges, it is recommended the volume and dilution data be summarized separately from the low-activity waste described in the following paragraph.


However, licensees that (1) have external sources of direct radiation that are above background and (2) demonstrate compliance with the numerical dose guidance of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, must also include sources of direct radiation from uranium fuel cycle operations (e.g., including direct radiation from the licensed facility and co-located or nearby nuclear power facilities, as appropriate).  
Report the total measured volume or average flow rate of waste from secondary or balance-of-plant systems (e.g., steam generator blowdown, low activity waste sumps, and auxiliary boilers).  In this context, secondary or balance-of-plant waste means the typically very low activity waste that is generally not processed with the liquid radioactive waste treatment system and that collectively represents a very large volume of waste.  Various methods exist for calculating the dilution water flow rate.  Health Physics Position HPPOS-099 indicates that licensees should use the total volume of dilution flow, not just that volume discharged during periods of liquid effluent releases. Licensees should include information describing how this value is calculated in either the ODCM or the ARERR. Because of the potentially high volume and extremely low activity of this type of waste, it is recommended the volume and dilution data be summarized separately from the higher activity waste described in the previous paragraph.


3. The dose contributions from direct radiation may be estimated based on either (1) direct radiation measurements (e.g., thermoluminescent dosimeters, optically stimulated dosimeters, radiation detection instruments), (2) calculations, or (3) a combination of measurements and calculationsWhen direct radiation dose is determined by measurement, RG 4.13 provides guidance on determining the dose to members of the publicSeveral sources contain additional information on background subtraction for environmental dosimeters (Refs. 29, 80,  
Licensees should report dilution flow rates during periods of release (before effluent is discharged to the receiving water body) as described above. If calculated differently than described above, the licensee should describe the method of calculationLicensees may choose to report near-field dilution if dilution by the receiving water body is taken into accountLicensees may report the average, minimum, and/or peak river or stream flow rates if applicable.
81 and 82).  Methods of determining dose from direct radiation to the maximum exposed individual member of the public may also include extrapolation methods.


Licensees must demonstrate compliance with 10 CFR 20.1301(e) for the generally applicable environmental radiation standards in 40 CFR Part 190These include the concept of a total dose (to the whole body and to any organ) from all sources related to the uranium fuel cycle (such as adjacent or nearby nuclear power plants).   
Table A-2A, Liquid EffluentsBatch Mode, contains a summation of liquid effluent discharges in the batch mode of releaseThe table is divided into four radionuclide categories:  fission and activation products, tritium, dissolved and entrained gases, and gross alphaLicensees should report the following:


Contributions to the total dose from radioactive effluents (liquid and gaseous) and direct radiation should be included, if applicable.  Other sources (e.g., accumulated radioactive materials in offsite ponds or lakes from previous years discharges) should also be included, if applicable, when estimating the total dose.  However, if the contributions from direct radiation or accumulated radioactivity are generally minor (as evaluated and documented in a licensee technical evaluation as not contributing to the total dose), these contributions need not be included in the total dose evaluation, but the basis for exclusion should be documented.
1.


5.9 Dose Calculations 
curies of each radionuclide and gross alpha discharged by quarter and year, and
2.


Acceptable dose assessment models, such as those provided in RGs 1.109, 1.111, 1.112, and  
total curies in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.
1.113, should be used to make dose calculations.  When calculating organ doses from airborne effluents for purposes of demonstrating compliance with Technical Specifications conforming to 10 CFR 50,
Appendix I, contributions from I-131, I-133, tritium, and radionuclides in particulate form with half-lives greater than 8 days should be included in the assessment.  For demonstrating compliance with NRC dose limits in 10 CFR 20.1301(a) and EPA 40 CFR 190, doses from C-14 should be included in organ dose assessments.


6.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 37 Table A-2B, Liquid EffluentsContinuous Mode, contains a summation of liquid effluent discharges in the continuous mode of release.  The table is divided into four radionuclide categories: 
fission and activation products, tritium, dissolved and entrained gases, and gross alpha.  Licensees should report the following: 


Solid Radioactive Waste Released from the Unit 
1.


Section 5.6, Reporting Requirements, in the Standard Technical Specifications normally requires reporting of solid waste released from the unit (see NUREG-1430, 1431, 1432, 1433, and 1434 (Refs. 83 - 87)).  The data reported should be for the LLW volumes shipped from the unit (plant site).  
curies of each radionuclide and gross alpha discharged by quarter and year, and  
2.


Solid radioactive waste shipments should be reported in a format similar to that of Table A-3 in Appendix A to this RG.  The total curie quantity and major radionuclides in the solid waste shipped off site should be determined and reported.
total curies in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.


The data should be divided by the waste stream categories listed in Table A-3.  The waste streams are:  
8.Solid Waste Storage and Shipments


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 42
Appendix A, Table A-3, summarizes the solid radioactive waste (low-level waste) shipped from the site during the reporting period. It is the intent that licensees report the volumes shipped and that licensees are not required to report the volumes that are buried.
(1) wet radioactive waste (e.g., spent resin, filters, sludges, etc.),


(2) dry radioactive waste (e.g., trash, paper, discarded protective clothing etc.), 
The volume and curies shipped in each Waste Classification A, B, and C should be reported for each of the following waste streams:


(3) activated or contaminated metal or equipment, etc., and 
1.


(4) other radioactive waste (bulk waste, soil, rubble, etc., not excepted from reporting as described below).  
resins, filters, and evaporator bottoms,  
2.


Shipments that do not need to be reported include shipments of contaminated equipment for transfer between licensees or equipment for refurbishment, contaminated laundry (either launderable or dissolvable), or radioactive samples for analysis.  Potentially contaminated dry active waste sent for resurvey and segregation (sometimes referred to as green is clean) does not need to be reported.
dry active waste,
3.


Equipment shipped for decontamination and free release does not need to be reported.  However, records of these types of shipments should be maintained on site.
irradiated components,  
4.


Note 1: Data on LLW disposed in licensed LLW disposal facilities is available using the Manifest Information Management System operated by the U.S. Department of Energy.
other waste, and
5.


Note 2: There are no requirements for reporting storage of LLW at nuclear power plants.
sum of all waste.


However, LLW storage records should be established and maintained at nuclear plants and made available for NRC inspection during routine effluent inspections consistent with applicable NRC
Excluded from the reporting are those materials that are either being sent for laundry (either for washing or dissolving), metal melt, equipment for decontamination before disposal, and other very low- level waste such as material being surveyed for release in lieu of disposal.  However, records of these types of shipments should be maintained on site.
requirements.


7.
8.4  Dose Assessments


Reporting Errata in Effluent Release Reports    
The annual evaluations of dose to members of the public should be calculated using the regulatory guidance in Regulatory Position 5 and should be reported in the format of Tables A-4 and A-5.  Dose assessments should be performed to demonstrate compliance with the following:    


Errors in radioactive effluent release reports should be classified and reported as described below.
1.


7.1 Examples of Small Errors    
Licensees should demonstrate compliance with 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I (Table A-4),
by doing the following (note that the type of individual or dose receptor should be identified as a real individual or as a hypothetical individual if using bounding dose assessments; the individual/receptor is in the unrestricted area):    


Small errors may be any of the following:
a.


1. inaccurate reporting of dose that equates to 10 percent of the applicable 10 CFR Part 50,
Report the calculated dose from liquid effluents on a quarterly and annual basis to the total body and maximum organ and the percentage of the Appendix I design objectives for the maximum exposed individual.  If a particular exposure pathway is not applicable (i.e., it does not exist at a site), no dose should be calculated for that exposure pathway.
Appendix I, design objective or 10 percent of the EPA public dose criterion; 


2. inaccurate reporting of curies (or release rates, volumes, etc.) that equate to 10 percent of the affected curie total (or release rate, volume, etc.) after correction; 
b.


3. omissions that do not impede the NRCs ability to adequately assess the information supplied by the licensee; or 
Report the highest air dose from gaseous effluents on a quarterly and annual basis at any location that could be occupied by individuals in the unrestricted area and the percentage of the Appendix I design objectives.


4. typographical errors or other errors that do not alter the intent of the report.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 38 c.


7.2 Reporting Small Errors 
Report the organ dose from iodine, tritium, and particulates with a half-life greater than 8 days to the maximum exposed individual in an unrestricted area from all pathways of exposure (e.g., submersion and ingestion).  


Licensees should correct small errors within 1 year of discovery and may submit the correction with the next (normally scheduled) submittal of the ARERR, as follows.  A brief narrative explanation of the errors should be included in Section 8, Errata/Corrections to Previous ARERRs, of Table A-6.  The narrative should state that the affected pages, in their entirety, are included as attachments to the ARERR.
2.


Additionally, the corrected pages, in their entirety, should be submitted as an attachment (or addendum)  
Licensees should demonstrate compliance with 10 CFR 20.1301(e) and 40 CFR Part 190
(Table A-5) by doing the following:


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 43 to the ARERR.  The corrected pages should reference the affected calendar year and should contain revision bars in the margins of the page to indicate the locations of the changes.  If submitting corrections to multiple ARERRs, a separate attachment (or addendum) should be made for each of the affected years.
a.


Other methods of correcting previous ARERRs may be used, provided the corrections are clearly and completely described.
Report the whole body, thyroid, and highest dose to any other organ from licensed and unlicensed radioactive material in the uranium fuel cycle, excluding background, to the individual member of the public likely to receive the highest dose.


7.3 Examples of Large Errors 
8.5  Supplemental Information


Large errors may be any of the following:
Table A-6 in the appendix can be used to provide supplemental information in a descriptive, narrative form.  Relevant information and a description of circumstances should be provided as appropriate for each the following categories, adding categories as appropriate.  Use the annotation N/A if not applicable.


1. inaccurate reporting of dose that equates to >10 percent of the 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I,
8.5.1 Abnormal Releases or Abnormal Discharges    
or EPA public dose criterion, after correction;    


2. inaccurate reporting of curies (or release rate, volume, etc.) that equates to >10 percent of the affected curie total (or release rate, volume, etc.) after correction; 
1.


3. omissions that may impede the NRCs ability to adequately assess the information supplied by the licensee; or 
Specific information should be reported concerning abnormal (airborne and/or liquid)
releases on site and abnormal discharges to the unrestricted area. The report should describe each event in a way that would enable the NRC to adequately understand how the material was released and if there was a discharge to the unrestricted area.  The report should describe the potential impact on the ingestion exposure pathway involving surface water and ground water, as applicable.  The report should also describe the impact (if any)
on other affected exposure pathways (e.g., inhalation).


4. typographical errors or other errors that significantly alter the intent of the report.
2.


7.4 Reporting Large Errors 
The following are the thresholds for reporting abnormal releases and abnormal discharges in the supplemental information section:


Licensee should correct large errors within 90 days of discovery.  The correction may be made by special submittal or may be submitted with the next (normally scheduled) ARERR (if the next ARERR is to be submitted within 90 days of discovery of the error).  If corrections are made by special submittal, the licensee should include a brief narrative explaining the errors.  The narrative should state that the affected pages, in their entirety, are included as an attachment.  The corrected pages should be attached in their entirety.  The corrected pages should reference the affected calendar year and should contain revision bars in the margins of the page to indicate the locations of the changes.  If submitting corrections to multiple ARERRs, separate attachment (or addendum) should be made for each of the affected years.
a.


If corrections are made coincident with the next (normally scheduled) submittal of the ARERR, the correction process should be used as specified in Section 7.2 (for small errors).  Other methods of correcting previous ARERRs may be used provided the corrections are clearly and completely described consistent with NRC requirements on the completeness and accuracy of information.
abnormal releases or abnormal discharges that are voluntarily reported to local authorities under NEI 07-07, Industry Ground Water Protection Initiative Final Guidance Document, (Ref.50)


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 44
b.
8.


Changes to Effluent and Environmental Programs
abnormal releases or abnormal discharges estimated to exceed 100 gallons (380
liters) of radioactive liquid where the presence of licensed radioactive material is positively identified (in either the on-site environs or in the source of the leak or spill) as greater than the minimum detectable activity (the minimum detectable activity is a post-analysis calculation of sensitivity level based on the actual sample measurement) for the laboratory instrumentation; 


Standard Technical Specifications (e.g., Section 5.5, Programs and Manuals) establishes requirements for the radioactive effluent controls and radiological environmental monitoring activities.
c.


The Technical Specifications establish a specific review and approval process for making changes to the ODCM. Potential changes require licensee analyses or evaluations justifying the change and a determination that the changes maintain the levels of radioactive effluent control required by10 CFR 20.1302, 40 CFR 190, 10 CFR 50.36a, and 10 CFR 50, Appendix I. The evaluation of potential changes should also consider the need for monitoring in support of decommissioning planning during operations (see RG 4.22, Decommissioning Planning During Operations, issued December 2012 (Ref. 88).
abnormal releases to on-site areas that result in detectable residual radioactivity after remediation; 


Effluent and environmental monitoring programs may need to be modified once power operations have permanently ceased and a written certification has been submitted to the NRC in accordance with
d.
10 CFR 50.82, Termination of License.  The evaluation of potential changes should consider the need for effluent and environmental monitoring during active decommissioning which is likely to affect principal release points and principal radionuclides.  For example, the removal of effluent ventilation systems will likely change principal release points and there may be new principal radionuclides identified (e.g., Kr-85), while radioactive decay may have eliminated former principal radionuclides (e.g.,
I-131) (see Section C.1.8). Potential changes must be reviewed and approved by the plant manager, station manager, or as described in plant-specific Technical Specifications, with submittal to the NRC as part of the next Annual Radioactive Effluent Release Report.


If the plant has a 10 CFR Part 72 ISFSI, the licensee must maintain compliance with the requirements in 10 CFR Part 72 regarding controls of effluent(s) and an environmental monitoring program.  These requirements include 10 CFR 72.44(d) for 10 CFR Part 72 specific license ISFSIs and, for 10 CFR Part 72 general license ISFSIs, any requirements specified in technical specifications of the certificate(s) of compliance for the storage systems in use at the ISFSI (to comply with
abnormal releases that result in a high effluent radiation alarm without an anticipated system trip occurring; and  
10 CFR 72.212(b)(3) and (b)(5)).


The radiological criteria for license termination are addressed in 10 CFR 20 Subpart E. The radiological criteria for unrestricted use (10 CFR 20.1402) encompass contributions from residual radioactivity in soils and remnant site components and in groundwater.  While some reductions in monitoring programs may be possible when operations cease, other aspects of monitoring such as groundwater monitoring may need to be increased to adequately characterize residual radioactivity and characterize dispersion pathways to support dose assessments and to estimate the decommissioning costs.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 39 e.


Lessons learned documented in RG 1.185 and NUREG-1757 indicate that the monitoring data from the period of operation tend to be insufficient to allow the staff to fully understand the types and the movement of radioactive material contamination in groundwater at the facility, as well as the extent of the residual radioactivity. Decommissioning reporting and recordkeeping requirements are addressed in
abnormal discharges to an unrestricted area.
10 CFR 50.75(g).  


Further general guidance to facilitate planning for decommissioning of power plants and facilities during operations can be found in RG 4.22, in RG 1.185 for post-shutdown decommissioning activities, in NUREG-1757 for consolidated decommissioning guidance, and in NUREG-1575, Rev. 1, Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation Manual.
3.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 45
Information on abnormal releases or abnormal discharges should include the following, as applicable: 
9.


Format and Content of the Annual Radioactive Effluent Release Report 
a.


In accordance with 10 CFR 50.4, Written communications, licensees should submit their annual report electronically or in a written communication.  The report should consist of a summary of the numerical data in a tabular format similar to Tables A-1 - A-6 in Appendix A to this RG.  Effluent data reported in Tables A-1, A-1A - A-1F, A-2, A-2A, A-2B, and A-4 should be summarized on a quarterly and annual basis.  Tables A-3 and A-5 should be summarized on an annual basis.  In addition to numerical data, the report should include additional supplemental information containing all the information in (but not necessarily in the format of Table A-6).  Additional detail for the information contained in each of these tables is listed below.  To comply with 10 CFR 50.36a, licensees must submit their ARERR by May 1 (unless a licensing basis exists for a different submittal date) to report on effluents and solid waste from the previous calendar year.
date and duration, b.


Radionuclides that are not detected do not need to be listed in the tables (Tables A-1A - A-1F,  
location, c.
A-2A, and A-2B).  Activity that is detected should be reported in the appropriate tables (i.e., Tables A-1, A-2, A-1A - A-1F, A-2A, and A-2B) in the ARERR, provided that the amount discharged is numerically significant with respect to the three-digit exponential format recommended for the ARERR.  This should not be confused with three significant figures.  Licensees may round numbers according to accepted practices (e.g., refer to ASTM E29, Standard Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications (Ref. 89)); however, after rounding has been completed, values should be reported in the ARERR in a three-digit exponential format.  Measurements should be reported for positive values.  Some radionuclides that are detected in a year may not be detected in all quarters.  If results are determined to be below detectable levels for an entire quarter, the table entry should include a suitable designation (e.g., N/D (not detected) and an accompanying footnote) to denote that measurements were performed but activity was not detected.


The format specified in this RG revision differs slightly from the format specified in Revision 1 and Revision 2.  The format and content specified in this Revision 3 of RG 1.21 is one acceptable method of reporting the data.  Other formats may be used (e.g., some tables may be combined) as long as the specified content is provided (e.g., quarterly totals and annual totals by each release category).  However, licensees are encouraged to use the format listed below to maximize consistency in data reporting.  This format is designed to be consistent with some commonly used electronic-data-reporting software packages.  Consistency in reporting format aids review by members of the public and allows easier industrywide comparisons of the data.
volume, d.


10 CFR 72 licensees may also, if they choose to do so, use the format specified in this RG for independent spent fuel storage installation (ISFSI) effluent reports required by 10 CFR 72.44(d) (for specific licenses) or the storage system(s) certificate(s) of compliance (for general licenses).  However, the ISFSI effluent reporting requirement is not normally satisfied by inclusion as part of the ARERR
estimated activity of each radionuclide, e.
since the reporting dates may conflict.  If the dates are coincident, or can be met with a single report, licensees may use the ARERR to fulfill the ISFSI reporting requirements, provided the licensee submits a copy as specified in those requirements (e.g., 10 CFR 72.44(d)(3) for specific licenses). 


9.1 Gaseous Effluents 
effluent monitoring results (if any), 
f.


The quarterly and annual sums of all radionuclides discharged in gaseous effluents (i.e., routine and abnormal discharges, continuous, and batch) should be reported in a format similar to that of Tables A-1A - A-1F in Appendix A to this RG.  The data should then be further summarized and reported in the format of Table A-1.
on-site monitoring results (if any),  
g.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 46 Table A-1, Gaseous EffluentsSummation of All Discharges, contains a summation of all gaseous effluent discharges from all release points and all modes of release.  The data are subdivided by quarter and year for each radionuclide category:  fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, gross alpha and carbon-14.
depth to the local water table, h.


Table A-1A, Gaseous EffluentsGround-Level ReleaseBatch Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from ground-level release points in the batch mode of release for six radionuclide categories:  fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, gross alpha and carbon-14. Licensees should report the following:
classification(s) of subsurface aquifer(s) (e.g., drinking water, unfit for drinking water, not used for drinking water),  
i.


1. curies of each radionuclide discharged by quarter and year, and
size and extent of any ground water plume, j.


2. total curies discharged in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.
expected movement/mobility of any ground water plume, k.


Some licensees may have surveillance requirements allowing the non-noble gas radionuclides (e.g., iodines and tritium) for some types of batch releases (e.g., containment purge) to be reported with continuous release results.  In these instances, the table entries for the affected radionuclides for batch releases should include an appropriate designation (e.g., *) and an accompanying footnote describing this situation.
land use characteristics (e.g., water used for irrigation),  
l.


Table A-1B, Gaseous EffluentsGround-Level ReleaseContinuous Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from ground-level release points in the continuous mode of release for six radionuclide categories:  fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, gross alpha and carbon-14. Licensees should report the following:
remedial actions considered or taken and results obtained, m.


1. curies of each radionuclide discharged by quarter and year, and 
calculated member of the public dose attributable to the release n.


2. total curies discharged in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.
calculated member of the public dose attributable to the discharge, o.


Table A-1C, Gaseous EffluentsElevated ReleaseBatch Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from elevated release points in the batch mode of release for six radionuclide categories:  fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, gross alpha, and carbon-14. Licensees should report the following:
actions taken to prevent recurrence, as applicable, and p.


1. curies of each radionuclide released by quarter and year, and
whether the NRC was notified, the date(s), and the contact organization.


2. total curies released in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.
8.5.2  Non-routine Planned Discharges


Some licensees may have surveillance requirements allowing the non-noble gas radionuclides (e.g., iodines and tritium) for some types of batch releases (e.g., containment purge) to be reported with continuous release resultsIn these instances, the table entries for the affected radionuclides for batch releases should include an appropriate designation (e.g., *) and an accompanying footnote describing this situation.
Discharges resulting from remediation efforts that are not identified in the ODCM should be reported.  For example, the remediation effort may include pumping of contaminated ground water in response to leaks and spills.


Table A-1D, Gaseous EffluentsElevated ReleaseContinuous Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from elevated release points in the continuous mode of release for six radionuclide categories:  fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, gross alpha and carbon-14Licensees should report the following:
8.5.3 Radioactive Waste Treatment System Changes 


1. curies of each radionuclide released by quarter and year, and 
Report any changes or modifications affecting any portion of the gaseous radioactive waste treatment system, the ventilation exhaust treatment system, or the liquid radioactive waste treatment.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 47
8.5.4  Annual Land Use Census Changes 
2. total curies released in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.


Table A-1E, Gaseous EffluentsMixed Mode ReleaseBatch Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from mixed-mode release points in the continuous mode of release for six radionuclide categories:  fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, gross alpha, and carbon-14. Licensees should report the following:
Report any changes or modifications affecting significant aspects of the environmental monitoring program such as receptors, receptor locations, sample media availability, new (or changed) routes of exposure, etc.


1. curies of each radionuclide released by quarter and year, and  
8.5.5 Effluent Monitoring System Inoperability


2. total curies released in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.
1.


Some licensees may have surveillance requirements allowing the non-noble gas radionuclides (e.g., iodines and tritium) for some types of batch releases (e.g., containment purge) to be reported with continuous release results.  In these instances, the table entries for the affected radionuclides for batch releases should include an appropriate designation (e.g., *) and an accompanying footnote describing this situation.
If an effluent radiation monitor is not operable for the consecutive time period listed in the licensees ODCM or technical specifications (typically 30 days), then the ARERR should include the radiation monitors equipment designation, the common name of the effluent radiation monitor, the time period of the inoperability, the reason why this inoperability was not corrected in a timely manner, and any other information required by the licensees ODCM or technical specifications.


Table A-1F, Gaseous EffluentsMixed Mode ReleaseContinuous Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from mixed-modes release points in the continuous mode of release for six radionuclide categories:  fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, gross alpha, and carbon-14. Licensees should report the following:
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 40
2.


1. curies of each radionuclide released by quarter and year, and
In accordance with NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302, Sections 3.3.3.10.b and 3.3.3.11.b the information above is required only when the minimum channels operability requirement is not achieved for the consecutive time period listed in the ODCM (typically
30 days). 


2. total curies released in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.
8.5.6  Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Changes 


9.2 Liquid Effluents
Report any changes or modifications affecting significant aspects of the ODCM.


The quarterly and annual sums of all radionuclides discharged in liquid effluents (i.e., routine and abnormal discharges, continuous, and batch) should be reported in a format similar to that of Tables A-2A
8.5.7 Process Control Program Changes
and A-2BThe data should then be further summarized and reported in the format of Appendix A,
Table A-2.


Table A-2, Liquid EffluentsSummation of All Releases, contains a summation of all liquid radioactive discharges from all release points and all modes of release.  The data are subdivided by quarter and year for each of the radionuclide categories:  fission and activation products, tritium, dissolved and entrained noble gases, and gross alpha.
Report any changes or modifications affecting significant aspects of the ODCM.


The table also includes the total volume of primary coolant waste (typically batch mode releases) before dilution. In this context, primary coolant waste means the higher activity waste that generally is not discharged directly but is instead typically processed through the liquid radioactive waste treatment system before dischargeVarious methods exist for calculating the dilution water flow rate.
8.5.8 Corrections to Previous Reports


HPPOS-099, Attention to Liquid Dilution Volumes in Semiannual Radioactive Effluent Release Reports, issued November 1984 (Ref. 90), indicates that licensees should use the total volume of dilution flow, not just that flow during periods of liquid effluent releases.  Licensees should include information describing how this value is calculated in either the ODCM or the ARERR.  Because the primary coolant waste typically accounts for the vast majority of the radioactivity in liquid waste discharges, the NRC
1.
recommends that the volume and dilution data be summarized separately from the low-activity waste described in the following paragraph.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 48 The total measured volume or average flow rate of waste from secondary or balance-of-plant systems (e.g., steam generator blowdown, low-activity waste sumps, and auxiliary boilers) should be reported.  In this context, secondary or balance-of-plant waste means the typically very low-activity waste that is generally not processed with the liquid radioactive waste treatment system and that collectively represents a very large volume of waste.  Various methods exist for calculating the dilution water flow rate.  HPPOS-099 states that licensees should use the total volume of dilution flow, not just that volume discharged during periods of liquid effluent releases.  Licensees should include information describing how this value is calculated in either the ODCM or the ARERR.  Because of the potentially high volume and extremely low activity of this type of waste, the NRC recommends the volume and dilution data be summarized separately from the higher activity waste described in the previous paragraph.
include a brief explanation of the error(s)  


Licensees should report dilution flow rates during periods of release (before effluent is discharged to the receiving water body), as described above.  If calculated differently than described above, the licensee should describe the method of calculation.  Licensees may choose to report near-field dilution if they account for dilution by the receiving water body.  Licensees may report the average, minimum, peak river, and stream flow rates, as applicable.
2.


Table A-2A, Liquid EffluentsBatch Mode, contains a summation of liquid effluent discharges in the batch mode of release.  The table is divided into four radionuclide categories:  fission and activation products, tritium, dissolved and entrained gases, and gross alpha.  Licensees should report the following:
include a statement that the affected pages, in their entirety, are included as attachments to this ARERR 


1. curies of each radionuclide and gross alpha discharged by quarter and year, and
3.


2. total curies in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.
ensure a copy of the affected page(s), in their entirety, are included as attachments to this ARERR. The attached pages should reference the affected calendar year and contain revision bars.


Table A-2B, Liquid EffluentsContinuous Mode, contains a summation of liquid effluent discharges in the continuous mode of release. The table is divided into four radionuclide categories: 
8.5.9 Other (Narrative Descriptions of Other Information Related to Radioactive Effluents)    
fission and activation products, tritium, dissolved and entrained gases, and gross alphaLicensees should report the following:    


1. curies of each radionuclide and gross alpha discharged by quarter and year, and  
==D. IMPLEMENTATION==
The purpose of this section is to provide information to applicants and licensees regarding the NRCs plans for using this regulatory guide.  The NRC does not intend or approve any imposition or backfit in connection with its issuance.


2. total curies in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.
Except in those cases in which an applicant or licensee proposes or has previously established an acceptable alternative method for complying with the specified portions of the NRCs regulations, the NRC staff will use the methods described in this guide in evaluating compliance with the applicable regulations.


9.3 Solid Waste Shipments Released from the Unit (per Standard Technical Specifications) 
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 41 GLOSSARY


Appendix A, Table A-3, provides an acceptable format for reporting the solid radioactive waste released (shipped) from the unit (plant site) during the reporting period.  The NRC intends that licensees report the waste shipped from the site, regardless of whether the shipment is sent for waste processing or direct disposal (i.e., with or without waste processing).  
a priori Before the fact limit representing the capability of a measurement system and not as an after the fact (a posteriori ) limit for a particular measurement.


Licensees should report the volume and curies of solid waste shipped (see exceptions noted in Section 6) for each of the following waste streams:
abnormal dischargeThe unplanned or uncontrolled emission of an effluent (i.e., containing plant- related, licensed radioactive material) into the unrestricted area.


1. wet radioactive waste (e.g., spent resins, filters, sludges, etc.),
abnormal releaseThe unplanned or uncontrolled emission of an effluent (i.e., containing plant-related, licensed radioactive material).  


2. dry radioactive waste (e.g., trash, paper, discarded protective clothing, etc.), 
accumulated radioactivityRadioactivity from prior-year effluent releases that may still be present in the media of concern.


3. activated or contaminated metal or equipment, etc., and
ALARAAs Low as Reasonably Achievable 


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 49
ARERRAnnual Radioactive Effluent Release Report
4. other radioactive waste (e.g., bulk waste, soil, rubble, etc., not excepted from reporting requirements in Section 6). 


9.4 Dose Assessments
AREORAnnual Radiological Environmental Operating Report


Licensees should calculate the annual evaluations of dose to members of the public using RG 1.21, Section 5 and report the data in the format of Tables A-4 and A-5. Dose assessments should demonstrate compliance with the following10: 
background (radiation)Means radiation from cosmic sources; naturally occurring radioactive material, including radon (except as a decay product of source or special nuclear material); and global fallout as it exists in the environment from the testing of nuclear explosive devices and from past nuclear accidents such as Chernobyl that contribute to background radiation and are not under the control of the licensee. Background radiation does not include radiation from source, byproduct, or special nuclear materials regulated by the Commission.


1. Licensees should demonstrate compliance with 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I (see Table A-4),
batch releaseThe release of liquid (radioactive) wastes of a discrete volume or the release of a tank or purge of radioactive gases into the site environs.
by doing the following11: 


a. Reporting the calculated dose from liquid effluents on a quarterly and annual basis to the total body and maximum organ and the percentage of the 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I,
channel checkThe qualitative assessment of channel behavior during operation by observationThis determination shall include, where possible, comparison of the channel indication and/or status with other indications and/or status derived from independent instrument channels measuring the same parameter.
design objectives for the maximum exposed individualIf a particular exposure pathway is not applicable (i.e., it does not exist at a site), do not calculate the dose for that exposure pathway.


b. Reporting the highest air dose from gaseous effluents on a quarterly and annual basis at any location that could be occupied by individuals in the unrestricted area and the percentage of the 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, design objectives.
channel operational testA channel operational test shall be the injection of a simulated signal into the channel as close to the sensor as practicable to verify operability of alarm, interlock and/or trip functions.  The channel operational test shall include adjustments, as necessary, of the alarm, interlock, and/or trip setpoints such that the setpoints are within the required range and accuracy.


c. Reporting the organ dose from iodine, tritium, and particulates with a half-life greater than 8 days to the maximum exposed individual in an unrestricted area from all pathways of exposure (e.g., submersion and ingestion).  
continuous releaseAn essentially uninterrupted release of gaseous or liquid effluent for extended periods during normal operation of the facility where the volume of radioactive waste is non- discrete and there is input flow during the release.


2. Licensees must demonstrate compliance with 10 CFR 20.1301(e) and 40 CFR Part 190 (see Table A-5) as follows:
controlled area (10 CFR 20)Means an area, outside of a restricted area but inside the site boundary, access to which is limited by the licensee for any reason.


a. Reporting the whole body, thyroid, and highest dose to any other organ from licensed and unlicensed radioactive material in the uranium fuel cycle, excluding background, to the individual member of the public likely to receive the highest dose.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 42 controlled area (10 CFR 72)Means that area immediately surrounding an Independent Spent Fuel Storage Installation (ISFSI) or a Monitored Retrievable Storage facility (MRS) for which the licensee exercises authority over its use and within which ISFSI or MRS operations are performed.


9.5 Supplemental Information
controlled dischargeA radioactive discharge is considered to be controlled if (1) the discharge was conducted in accordance with methods, and without exceeding any of the limits, outlined in the ODCM, or (2) if one or more of the following three items are true:


Licensees should provide supplemental information in a descriptive, narrative form (see Table A-6 or in a similar format).  Relevant information and a description of circumstances should be provided as appropriate for each the following categories, adding categories as appropriate.  The annotation N/A should be used if a category is not applicable.
1.  The radioactive discharge had an associated, pre-planned method of radioactivity monitoring that assured the discharge was properly accounted and was within the limits set by 10 CFR 20
and 10 CFR 50.


9.5.1  Abnormal Releases or Abnormal Discharges 
2. The radioactive discharge had an associated, pre-planned method of termination (and associated termination criteria) that assured the discharge was properly accounted and was within the limits set by 10 CFR 20 and 10 CFR 50.


The reporting of abnormal releases to onsite areas and abnormal discharges to unrestricted areas should include the following:
3.  The radioactive discharge had an associated, pre-planned method of adjusting, modulating, or altering the flow rate (or the rate of release of radioactive material) that assured the discharge was properly accounted and was within the limits set by 10 CFR 20 and 10 CFR 50.


10 
controlled releaseA radioactive release is considered to be controlled if (1) the release was conducted in accordance with methods, and without exceeding any of the limits, outlined in the ODCM, or
As noted in Section C.5, dose assessments for 10 CFR 72.104 should include the components necessary to appropriately demonstrate compliance with those limits.
(2) if one or more of the following three items are true:


11 The type of individual or dose receptor should be identified as a real individual or as a hypothetical individual if using bounding dose assessments; the individual/ receptor is in the unrestricted area.
1.  The radioactive release had an associated, pre-planned method of radioactivity monitoring that assured the release was properly accounted and was within the limits set by 10 CFR 20 and 10
CFR 50.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 50
2. The radioactive release has an associated, pre-planned method of termination (and associated termination criteria) that assured the release was properly accounted and was within the limits set by 10 CFR 20 and 10 CFR 50.
1. Specific information should be reported concerning abnormal (airborne, liquid) releases on site and abnormal discharges to the unrestricted area.  The report should describe each event in a way that would enable the NRC to adequately understand how the material was released and if there was a discharge to the unrestricted area.  The report should describe the potential impact on the ingestion exposure pathway involving surface water and groundwater, as applicable.  The report should also describe the impact (if any) on other affected exposure pathways (e.g., inhalation).  


2. The following are the thresholds for reporting abnormal releases and abnormal discharges in the supplemental information section:
3. The radioactive release had an associated, pre-planned method of adjusting, modulating, or altering the flow rate (or the rate of release of radioactive material) that assured the release was properly accounted and was within the limits set by10 CFR 20 and 10 CFR 50.


a. abnormal releases or abnormal discharges that are voluntarily reported to local authorities under Nuclear Energy Institute 07-07, Revision 1, Industry Groundwater Protection InitiativeFinal Guidance Document, dated February 26, 2019 (Ref. 91);    
conversion factorA factor (e.g., microcuries per cubic centimeter per counts per minute (Ci/cc/cpm))
used to estimate a radioactivity concentration in an effluent based on a gross radioactivity measurement (e.g., counts per minute).    


b. abnormal releases or abnormal discharges estimated to exceed 300 liters (100 gallons) of radioactive liquid where the presence of licensed radioactive material is positively identified (in either the onsite environs or in the source of the leak or spill) as greater than the minimum detectable activity12 for the laboratory instrumentation; 
D/QA dispersion parameter for estimating the dose to an individual at a specified (e.g., controlling)
location.  D/Q may be described as the downwind surface or ground concentration (D) (e.g., in units of microcuries per square meter (Ci/m2)) of radioactive material at a location, divided by the release activity (Q) (e.g., in units of microcuries, Ci).  D/Q is thus a normalized downwind surface concentration per unit release and can be used to determine the surface or ground radioactivity concentration during a measured effluent release.  The units of D/Q are reciprocal square meters.


c. abnormal releases to onsite areas that result in detectable residual radioactivity after remediation;    
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 43 determinationA quantitative evaluation of the release or presence of radioactive material under a specific set of conditions.  A determination may be made by direct or indirect measurements (e.g., with the use of scaling factors).   


d. abnormal releases that result in a high effluent radiation alarm without an anticipated system trip occurring; and 
dilution water (for liquid radioactive waste)For purposes of this regulatory guide, any water, other than the undiluted radioactive waste, that is mixed with undiluted liquid radioactive waste before its ultimate discharge to the unrestricted area.


e. abnormal discharges to an unrestricted area.
discharge pointA location at which radioactive material enters the unrestricted area. This would be the point beyond the vertical plane of the unrestricted area (surface or subsurface).


3. Information on abnormal releases or abnormal discharges should include the following, as applicable: 
DQOData Quality Objectives


a. date and duration, b. location, c. volume, d. estimated activity of each radionuclide, e. effluent monitoring results (if any), 
drinking waterWater that does not contain an objectionable pollutant, contamination, minerals, or infective agent and is considered satisfactory for domestic consumption. This is sometimes called potable water. Potable water is water that is safe and satisfactory for drinking and cooking.
f. onsite monitoring results (if any), 
g. depth to the local water table, h. classification(s) of subsurface aquifer(s) (e.g., drinking water, unfit for drinking water, not used for drinking water), 
i.


size and extent of any groundwater plume, j.
Although EPA regulations only apply to public drinking water sources supplying 25 or more people (refer to EPA for more information), for purposes of the effluent and environmental monitoring programs, the term drinking water includes water from single-use residential drinking water wells.


expected movement/mobility of any groundwater plume, k. land use characteristics (e.g., water used for irrigation)
effluentLiquid or gaseous waste containing plant-related, licensed radioactive material, emitted at the boundary of the facility (e.g., buildings, end-of-pipe, stack, or container) as described in the final safety analysis report (FSAR).  
l.


remedial actions considered or taken and results obtained, m. calculated member of the public dose attributable to the release, n. calculated member of the public dose attributable to the discharge, o. actions taken to prevent recurrence, as applicable, and p. whether the NRC was notified, the date(s), and the contact organization.
effluent dischargeThe portion of an effluent release that reaches an unrestricted area.


12 The minimum detectable activity is a post-analysis calculation of sensitivity level based on the actual sample measurement.
effluent releaseThe emission of an effluent. (Same as radioactive release.)


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 51
elevated releaseA gaseous effluent release made from a height that is more than twice the height of adjacent solid structures, or releases made from heights sufficiently above adjacent solid structures that building wake effects are minimal or absent.


9.5.2 Nonroutine Planned Discharges
exposure pathwayA mechanism by which radioactive material is transferred from the (local)
environment to humans. There are three commonly recognized exposure pathways; inhalation, ingestion, and direct radiation.  For example, ingestion is an exposure pathway, and it may include dose contributions from one or more routes of exposure.  For example, one route of exposure that may contribute to the ingestion exposure pathway is often referred to as grass-cow-milk-infant- thyroid route of exposure.


Discharges resulting from remediation efforts that are not identified in the ODCM should be reported.  For example, the remediation effort may include pumping of contaminated groundwater in response to leaks and spills.
ground-level releaseA gaseous effluent release made from a height that is ator less thanthe height of adjacent solid structures, or where the degree of plume rise is unknown or is otherwise insufficient to avoid building wake effects.


9.5.3 Radioactive Waste Treatment System Changes 
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 44 ground waterAll water in the surface soil, the subsurface soil, or any other subsurface water.  Ground water is simply water in the ground regardless of its quality, including saline, brackish, or fresh water. Ground water can be moisture in the ground that is above the regional water table in the unsaturated (or vadose) zone, or ground water can be at and below the water table in the saturated zone.


Licensees should report any changes or modifications affecting any portion of the gaseous radioactive waste treatment system, the ventilation exhaust treatment system, or the liquid radioactive waste treatment.
hypothetical exposure pathwayAn exposure pathway in which one or more of the components involved in the transfer of a radionuclide from the environment to the human does not actually exist at the specified location, or if a real human does not consume, inhale, or otherwise become exposed to the radioactive material.  For example, the grass-cow-milk-infant-thyroid route of exposure (associated with the ingestion exposure pathway) would be considered a hypothetical exposure pathway if the grass, the cow, or the milk did not actually exist at a specified location or if an infant did not actually consume the milk.


9.5.4 Annual Land Use Census Changes 
impacted areasMeans the areas with some reasonable potential for residual radioactivity in excess of natural background or fallout levels. [Note: See 10 CFR 50.2, Definitions, and NUREG-1757 for a discussion of impacted areas.  For example, impacted areas include locations where radiological leaks or spills have occurred within the onsite environs (i.e., outside of the facilitys systems, structures, and components).  (See also the definition of significant contamination.)]


Licensees should report any changes or modifications affecting significant aspects of the environmental monitoring program such as receptors, receptor locations, sample media availability, or new (or changed) routes of exposure.
ISFSIIndependent Spent Fuel Storage Installation


9.5.5 Effluent Monitoring System Inoperability
leachateWater containing contaminants that is percolating downward from a pond or lake into the subsurface.


Licensees should report information on inoperable effluent monitors as follow:
less-significant release pointAny location, from which radioactive material is released as a liquid or gaseous effluent, contributing less than or equal to 1 percent of the activity discharged from all the release points for a particular type of effluent considered.  Regulatory Guide 1.109 lists the three types of effluent as (1) liquid effluents, (2) noble gases discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste, and (3) all other nuclides discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste.


1. If an effluent radiation monitor is not operable for the consecutive time period listed in the licensees ODCM or technical specifications (typically 30 days), then the ARERR should include the radiation monitors equipment designation, the common name of the effluent radiation monitor, the time period of the inoperability, the reason why this inoperability was not corrected in a timely manner, and any other information required by the licensees ODCM or technical specifications.
Example: If 1000 Ci of tritium are released in all liquid effluents in a given period of time (e.g., a typical calendar year or fuel cycle) and 0.01 Ci of tritium are released in steam generator blow down, then the steam generator blow down would be a less-significant release point.  Similarly, for gaseous releases of radionuclides other than noble gases (i.e., iodine, particulates, and tritium) if the total effluents are 10 Ci (iodine, particulates, and tritium) and the Refueling Water Storage Tank released 0.009 Ci of iodine, particulates, and tritium, then the Refueling Water Storage Tank would be a less-significant release point. In both of these examples the sample frequency can be adjusted to a frequency that is appropriate for that less significant release point.  Samples collected from these systems for other programs (e.g., detection of primary to secondary leakage) must still be collected and analyzed at the frequencies specified by the other programs.


2. In accordance with NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302, Sections 3.3.3.10.b and 3.3.3.11.b, Generic Letter 89-01, and licensee ODCMs, the information above is required only when the minimum channels operability requirement is not achieved for the consecutive time period listed in the ODCM (typically 30 days).  
licensed materialMeans source material, special nuclear material, or byproduct material received, possessed, used, transferred, or disposed of under a general or specific license issued by the Commission.


9.5.6 Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Changes 
lower limit of detection (LLD)The a priori smallest concentration of radioactive material in a sample that will yield a net count, above system background, that will be detected with 95% probability


Licensees should report any changes or modifications affecting significant aspects of the ODCM.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 45 with only a 5% probability of falsely concluding that a blank observation represents a real signal (see NUREG-1301, NUREG-1302, and NUREG/CR-4007, Lower Limit of Detection: 
Definition and Elaboration of a Proposed Position for Radiological Effluent and Environmental Measurements, issued September 1984 (Ref.51).  


9.5.7 Process Control Program Changes
maximum individualIndividuals characterized as maximum with regard to food consumption, occupancy, and other usage of the region in the vicinity of the plant site. As such, they represent individuals with habits that are considered to be maximum reasonable deviations from the average for the population in general. Additionally, in physiological or metabolic respects, the maximum exposed individuals are assumed to have those characteristics that represent the averages for their corresponding age group in the general population.  (This term typically refers to members of the public).  See Regulatory Guide 1.109 for additional information.)


Licensees should report any changes or modifications affecting significant aspects of the ODCM.
member of the public (10 CFR 20)Means any individual except when that individual is receiving an occupational dose.


9.5.8 Corrections to Previous Reports
member of the public (40 CFR 190)Means any individual that can receive a radiation dose in the general environment, whether he may or may not also be exposed to radiation in an occupation associated with a nuclear fuel cycle. However, an individual is not considered a member of the public during any period in which the individual is engaged in carrying out any operation which is part of a nuclear fuel cycle.


When submitting corrections to previous reports, licensees should do the following:
minimum detectable concentrationThe smallest activity concentration measurement that is practically achievable with a given instrument and type of measurement procedure.  It depends on factors involved in the survey measurement process (surface type, geometry, backscatter, and self- absorption) and is typically calculated following an actual sample analysis (a posteriori).  (See NUREG-1507, Minimum Detectable Concentrations with Typical Radiation Survey Instruments for Various Contaminants and Field Conditions, issued June 1998 (Ref. 52)).


1. Include a brief explanation of the error(s).  
mixed mode releaseA gaseous effluent release made from a height higher than a ground-level release but less than an elevated release where, because of a lack of plume rise (e.g., buoyancy, momentum, and wind speed), a proper estimate of radionuclide transport and dispersion requires mathematically splitting the plume into (1) an elevated component and (2) a ground-level component to properly account for building wake effects. (See Regulatory Guide 1.111 for further guidance.)


2. State that the affected pages, in their entirety, are included as attachments to this ARERR.
monitoringRadiation monitoring, radiation protection monitoring means the measurement of radiation levels, concentrations, surface area concentrations or quantities of radioactive material and the use of results of these measurements to evaluate potential exposures and doses.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 52
nonroutine, planned dischargeAn effluent release from a release point that is not defined in the ODCM but that has been planned, monitored, and discharged in accordance with 10 CFR 20.2001 (e.g., the discharge of water recovered during a spill or leak from a temporary storage tank).  
3. Ensure that a copy of the affected page(s), in their entirety, is included as an attachment to the ARERR.  The attached pages should reference the affected calendar year and contain revision bars.


9.5.9 Other (Narrative Descriptions of Other Information Related to Radioactive Effluents) 
nuclear fuel cycleThe operations defined to be associated with the production of electrical power for public use by any fuel cycle through the use of nuclear energy (see 40 CFR 190.02).  


Licensees should report other supplemental information (as appropriate).
ODCMThe Offsite Dose Calculation Manual.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 53
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 46


==D. IMPLEMENTATION==
on-site environsLocation within the site boundary but outside of the systems, structures, or components described in the final safety analysis report or the ODCM.
The NRC staff may use this regulatory guide as a reference in its regulatory processes, such as licensing, inspection, or enforcement. However, the NRC staff does not intend to use the guidance in this regulatory guide to support NRC staff actions in a manner that would constitute backfitting as that term is defined in 10 CFR 50.109, Backfitting, or in 10 CFR 72.62, Backfitting, and as described in NRC
Management Directive 8.4, Management of Backfitting, Forward Fitting, Issue Finality, and


===
operability (operable)The ability of a system, subsystem, train, component, or device to perform its specified safety function(s) and the ability of all necessary attendant instrumentation, controls, normal or emergency electrical power, cooling and seal water, lubrication, and other auxiliary equipment (required for the system, subsystem, train, component, or device to perform its specified safety function(s)) to perform their related support function(s). 


===Information Requests===
principal radionuclideA principal radionuclide is one of the principal gamma emitters listed in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302, Tables 4.11-1 and Table 4.11-2, or alternatively, from a risk- informed perspective, a radionuclide is considered a principal radionuclide if it contributes either
===
(1) greater than 1 percent of the 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, design objective dose when all radionuclides in the type of effluent are considered, or (2) greater than 1 percent of the activity of all nuclides in the type of effluent being considered. Regulatory Guide 1.109 lists the three types of effluents as (1) liquid effluents, (2) noble gases discharged to the atmosphere, and (3) all other nuclides discharged to the atmosphere.  In this document, the terms principal radionuclide and principal nuclide are synonymous since this document is only concerned with measuring, evaluating, and reporting radioactive materials in effluents.
, (Ref. 92), nor does the NRC staff intend to use the guidance to affect the issue finality of an approval under 10 CFR Part 52, Licenses, Certifications, and Approvals for Nuclear Power Plants. The staff also does not intend to use the guidance to support NRC staff actions in a manner that constitutes forward fitting as that term is defined and described in Management Directive 8.4. If a licensee believes that the NRC is using this regulatory guide in a manner inconsistent with the discussion in this Implementation section, then the licensee may file a backfitting or forward fitting appeal with the NRC in accordance with the process in Management Directive 8.4.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 54 GLOSSARY
QAQuality Assurance


a prioriBefore-the-fact limit, representing the capability of a measurement system and not as an after-the-fact (a posteriori) limit for a particular measurement.
QCQuality Control


abnormal dischargeThe unplanned or uncontrolled emission of an effluent (i.e., containing plant-related, licensed radioactive material) into the unrestricted area.
radioactive dischargeThe emission of an effluent (i.e., containing plant-related, licensed radioactive material) into the unrestricted area. (Same as effluent discharge.)


abnormal releaseThe unplanned or uncontrolled emission of an effluent (i.e., containing plant-related, licensed radioactive material) into the onsite environs.
radioactive releaseThe emission of an effluent (i.e., containing plant-related, licensed radioactive material). (Same as effluent release.)


accumulated radioactivityRadioactivity from prior-year effluent releases that may still be present in the unrestricted area.
real exposure pathwayAn exposure pathway in which plant-related radionuclides in the environment at (or from) a specified location cause exposure to an actual individual.  For example, the grass-cow- milk-infant-thyroid exposure pathway would be considered a real exposure pathway if the grass, the cow, and the milk actually existed at a specified location and an infant actually consumed the milk.  For purposes of compliance with 10CFR50 Appendix I, the individual must be a member of the public.


background (radiation)Means radiation from cosmic sources; naturally occurring radioactive material, including radon (except as a decay product of source or special nuclear material); and global fallout as it exists in the environment from the testing of nuclear explosive devices and from past nuclear accidents, such as Chernobyl or Fukushima, that contribute to background radiation and are not under the control of the licensee.  Background radiation does not include radiation from source, byproduct, or special nuclear materials regulated by the Commission.
release sourceA system, structure, or component (containing radioactive material under the licensees control) where radioactive materials are contained prior to release.


batch releaseThe release of liquid (radioactive) wastes of a discrete volume or the release of a tank or purge of radioactive gases into the site environs.
release pointA location from which radioactive materials are released from a system, structure, or component (including evaporative releases and leaching from ponds and lakes in the controlled or restricted area before release under 10 CFR 20.2001).  For release points monitored by plant process radiation monitoring systems, the release point is associated with the piping immediately downstream of the radiation monitor.  (See also the definition for significant release point.) 
Several release sources may contribute to a common release point.


channel checkThe qualitative assessment of channel behavior during operation by observation.  This determination should include, where possible, comparison of the channel indication, status with other indications, and status derived from independent instrument channels measuring the same parameter.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 47 residual radioactivityResidual radioactivity means radioactivity in structures, materials, soils, ground water, and other media at a site resulting from activities under the licensees control.  This includes radioactivity from all licensed and unlicensed sources used by the licensee, but it excludes background radiation.  It also includes radioactive materials remaining at the site as a result of routine or accidental releases of radioactive material at the site and previous burials at the site, even if those burials were made in accordance with the provisions of 10 CFR Part 20.


channel operational testThe injection of a simulated signal into the channel as close to the sensor as practicable to verify operability of alarm, interlock, and trip functions, as applicable.  The channel operational test should include adjustments, as necessary, of the alarm, interlock, and trip setpoints, as applicable, such that the setpoints are within the required range and accuracy.
restricted areaRestricted area means an area, access to which is limited by the licensee for the purpose of protecting individuals against undue risks from exposure to radiation and radioactive materials.


continuous releaseAn essentially uninterrupted release of gaseous or liquid effluent for extended periods during normal operation of the facility where the volume of radioactive waste is non-discrete and there is input flow during the release.
Restricted area does not include areas used as residential quarters, but separate rooms in a residential building may be set apart as a restricted area.


controlled area (10 CFR Part 20)An area outside of a restricted area but inside the site boundary, access to which is limited by the licensee for any reason.
route of exposureA specific path (or delivery mechanism) by which radioactive material, originally in the environment at a specified location, can eventually cause a radiation dose to an individual.


controlled area (10 CFR Part 72)The area immediately surrounding an ISFSI or a monitored retrievable storage installation (MRS) for which the licensee exercises authority over its use and within which ISFSI or MRS operations are performed.
The path typically includes a type of environmental medium (e.g., air, grass, meat, or water) as the starting point and a recipients organ or body as the end point.  For example, the grass-cow-milk- infant-thyroid route of exposure may contribute to the ingestion exposure pathway.  Additionally, several routes of exposure may contribute to a single exposure pathway.


controlled dischargeA radioactive discharge is considered to be controlled if (1) the discharge was conducted in accordance with methods, and without exceeding any of the limits, outlined in the ODCM or (2) if one or more of the following three items are true:
scaling factorA factor used to estimate the unknown activity of a radionuclide based on its ratio to the activity of a readily measured radionuclide or other parameter (e.g., C-14 scaled to power generation).


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 55
significant contaminationAs used for 10 CFR 50.75(g) recordkeeping, a quantity and/or concentration of residual radioactivity that would require remediation during decommissioning in order to terminate the license by meeting the unrestricted use criteria stated in 10 CFR 20.1402 (see NUREG-1757).  
1. The radioactive discharge had an associated, preplanned method of radioactivity monitoring that assured the discharge was properly accounted and was within the limits set by
10 CFR Part 20 and 10 CFR Part 50.


2. The radioactive discharge had an associated, preplanned method of termination (and associated termination criteria) that assured the discharge was properly accounted and was within the limits set by 10 CFR Part 20 and 10 CFR Part 50.
significant release pointAny location, from which radioactive material is released, that contributes greater than 1 percent of the activity discharged from all the release points for a particular type of effluent considered.  Regulatory Guide 1.109 lists the three types of effluent as (1) liquid effluents,
(2) noble gases discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste, and (3) all other radionuclides discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste.


3. The radioactive discharge had an associated, preplanned method of adjusting, modulating, or altering the flow rate (or the rate of release of radioactive material) that assured the discharge was properly accounted and was within the limits set by 10 CFR Part 20 and 10 CFR Part 50.
significant residual radioactivitySynonymous with the term significant contamination.


controlled releaseA radioactive release is considered to be controlled if (1) the release was conducted in accordance with methods, and without exceeding any of the limits, outlined in the ODCM or (2) if one or more of the following three items are true:
site boundarySite boundary means that line beyond which the land or property is not owned, leased, or otherwise controlled by the licensee.


1. The radioactive release had an associated, preplanned method of radioactivity monitoring that assured the release was properly accounted and was within the limits set by 10 CFR Part 20
site environsLocations outside of the nuclear power plant systems, structures, or components as described in the final safety analysis report or the ODCM.
and 10 CFR 50.


2. The radioactive release has an associated, preplanned method of termination (and associated termination criteria) that assured the release was properly accounted and was within the limits set by 10 CFR Part 20 and 10 CFR 50.
source checkA source check is a qualitative assessment of the channel response when the channel sensor is exposed to a source of increased radioactivity.


3. The radioactive release had an associated, preplanned method of adjusting, modulating, or altering the flow rate (or the rate of release of radioactive material) that assured the release was properly accounted and was within the limits set by10 CFR Part 20 and 10 CFR Part 50.
surveySurvey means an evaluation of the radiological conditions and potential hazards incident to the production, use, transfer, release, disposal, or presence of radioactive material or other sources of radiation.  When appropriate, such an evaluation includes a physical survey of the location of


conversion factorA factor (e.g., microcuries per cubic centimeter per counts per minute (Ci/cc/cpm)
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 48 radioactive material and measurements or calculations of levels of radiation, or concentrations or quantities of radioactive material present.
used to estimate a radioactivity concentration in an effluent based on a gross radioactivity measurement (e.g., cpm).  


D/Q  A deposition parameter used for estimating the dose to an individual at a specified (e.g., controlling) location.  D/Q may be described as the downwind surface or ground deposition rate (D) (e.g., in units of microcuries per square meter [Ci/m2]/sec of radioactive material at a location, divided by the release rate (Q) (e.g., in Ci/sec).  D/Q is thus a normalized downwind surface deposition rate per unit release rate and can be used to determine the surface or ground radioactivity concentration during a measured effluent release over a specific period of time.  The units of D/Q are reciprocal square meters.
TEDETotal Effective Dose Equivalent


determinationA quantitative evaluation of the release or presence of radioactive material under a specific set of conditionsA determination may be made by direct measurement or indirect measurements (e.g., with the use of scaling factors).  
type of effluentA grouping of radioactive releases into one of the three categories listed in 10 CFR 50
Appendix I, paragraphs A through CThe three categories are classified in RG 1.109 as (1) liquid effluents, (2) noble gases discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste, and (3) all other nuclides discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste.


dilution water (for liquid radioactive waste)For purposes of this RG, any water other than the undiluted radioactive waste that is mixed with undiluted liquid radioactive waste before its ultimate discharge to the unrestricted area.
unlicensed materialRadioactive material including (1) previously licensed material discharged in effluents, (2) background radioactivity, or (3) global fallout.  Licensed radioactive material becomes unlicensed radioactive material upon discharge in effluents in accordance with 10 CFR
20.2001.


discharge pointA location at which radioactive material enters the unrestricted areaThis would be the point beyond the vertical plane of the unrestricted area (surface or subsurface).
uncontrolled dischargeAn effluent discharge that does not meet the definition of a controlled dischargeSee the definition of controlled discharge.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 56 drinking waterWater that does not contain an objectionable pollutant, contamination, minerals, or infective agent and is considered satisfactory for domestic consumptionThis is sometimes called potable water.  Potable water is water that is safe and satisfactory for drinking and cooking.
uncontrolled releaseAn effluent release that does not meet the definition of a controlled releaseSee the definition of controlled release.


Although EPA regulations only apply to public drinking water sources supplying 25 or more people (refer to the EPA for more information), for purposes of the effluent and environmental monitoring programs, the term drinking water includes water from single-use residential drinking water wells.
unplanned dischargeThe unintended or unexpected discharge of liquid or airborne radioactive material to the unrestricted area.  Examples of an unplanned discharge would include: 


effluentLiquid or gaseous waste containing plant-related, licensed radioactive material, emitted at the boundary of the facility (e.g., buildings, end-of-pipe, stack, or container) as described in the final safety analysis report.
1.


effluent dischargeThe portion of an effluent release that reaches an unrestricted area.  (See also the definition for radioactive discharge.)  
the unintentional discharge of a wrong waste gas decay tank (or bulk liquid radioactive waste tank), or 


effluent releaseThe emission of an effluent into the onsite environs. (See also the definition for radioactive release.)
2.


elevated releaseA gaseous effluent release made from a height that is more than twice the height of adjacent solid structures, or releases made from heights sufficiently above adjacent solid structures such that building wake effects are minimal or absent.
the failure of a radiation monitor to divert liquid to the radioactive waste system in the case where radioactivity is present and the automatic alarm/trip function fails to divert material to liquid radioactive waste and that material (or a portion of that material) is instead discharged to the environment.


exposure pathwayA mechanism by which radioactive material is transferred from the (local)
unplanned releaseThe unintended or unexpected release of liquid or airborne radioactive material to the on-site environment.  An example of an unplanned release would include a plant occurrence that results in a leak or spill of radioactive material to on-site areas requiring a report under 10
environment to humansThere are three commonly recognized exposure pathways:  inhalation, ingestion, and direct radiation.  For example, ingestion may include dose contributions from one or more routes of exposure.  One route of exposure that may contribute to the ingestion exposure pathway is often referred to as grass-cow-milk-infant-thyroid route of exposure.
CFR 50.72 or 10 CFR 50.73. (See NUREG/CR-5569, Health Physics Positions Data Base, February, 1994, HPPOS-254, Definition of Unplanned Release, (Ref. 53).) 


general environmentAn EPA 40 CFR 190.02 definition meaning the total terrestrial, atmospheric and aquatic environment outside sites upon which any (licensed) operation of a nuclear fuel cycle is conducted.
For example, if a licensee has prepared documents describing an intended release (e.g., a preliminary radioactive waste release permit) in advance of the evolution, and the intended release occurs as planned, then the release is a planned release.  If such documents (e.g., a preliminary release permit) are not prepared (or considered/evaluated) before the release, it is potentially an unplanned release (and additional information may be required to determine if it is an unplanned release).  


ground-level releaseA gaseous effluent release made from a height that is ator less thanthe height of adjacent solid structures, or where the degree of plume rise is unknown or is otherwise insufficient to avoid building wake effects.
unrestricted areaUnrestricted area means an area, access to which is neither limited nor controlled by the licensee.


groundwaterAll water in the surface soil, the subsurface soil, or any other subsurface water.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 49 uranium fuel cycleThe operations of milling of uranium ore, chemical conversion of uranium, isotopic enrichment of uranium, fabrication of uranium fuel, generation of electricity by a light-water- cooled nuclear power plant using uranium fuel, and reprocessing of spent uranium fuel, to the extent that these directly support the production of electrical power for public use utilizing nuclear energy, but excludes mining operations, operations at waste disposal sites, transportation of any radioactive material in support of these operations, and the reuse of recovered non-uranium special nuclear and byproduct materials from the cycle.


Groundwater is simply water in the ground regardless of its quality, including saline, brackish, or fresh water. Groundwater can be moisture in the ground that is above the regional water table in the unsaturated (or vadose) zone, or groundwater can be at and below the water table in the saturated zone.
/QReferred to as Xi over Q, /Q is the average atmospheric effluent concentration, , normalized by release rate, Q, at a distance (or location) in a given downwind direction. Expressed in another way, /Q is the concentration () of airborne radioactive material (e.g., in units of Ci/m3) divided by the release rate (Q) (e.g., in units of Ci/s) at a specified distance and direction downwind of the release point.


hypothetical exposure pathwayAn exposure pathway in which one or more of the components involved in the transfer of a radionuclide from the environment to the human does not actually exist at the specified location, or if a real human does not consume, inhale, or otherwise become exposed to the radioactive material. For example, the grass-cow-milk-infant-thyroid route of exposure (associated with the ingestion exposure pathway) would be considered a hypothetical exposure pathway if the grass, the cow, or the milk did not actually exist at a specified location or if an infant did not actually consume the milk.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 50


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 57 impacted areasThe areas with some reasonable potential for residual radioactivity in excess of natural background or fallout levels.  The NRC discusses impacted areas in 10 CFR 50.2 and NUREG-1757.  For example, impacted areas include locations where radiological leaks or spills have occurred within the onsite environs (i.e., outside of the facilitys systems, structures, and components).  (See also the definition for significant contamination.)
REFERENCES1


leachateWater containing contaminants that is percolating downward from a pond or lake into the subsurface.
1 Publicly available NRC published documents such as Regulations, Regulatory Guides, NUREGs, and Generic Letters listed herein are available electronically through the Electronic Reading room on the NRCs public Web site at: http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/.  Copies are also available for inspection or copying for a fee from the NRCs Public Document Room (PDR) at 11555 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD; the mailing address is USNRC PDR, Washington, DC 20555; telephone 301-415-4737 or  
(800) 397-4209; fax (301) 415-3548; and e-mail PDR.Resource@nrc.gov.


less-significant release pointAny location from which radioactive material is released as a liquid or gaseous effluent contributing less than or equal to 1 percent of the activity discharged from all the release points for a particular type of effluent considered.  RG 1.109 lists the three types of effluent as (1) liquid effluents, (2) noble gases discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste, and (3) all other nuclides discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste.
1.


Example:  If 1,000 curies (Ci) of tritium are released in all liquid effluents in a given period of time (e.g., a typical calendar year or fuel cycle) and 0.01 Ci of tritium is released in steam generator blowdown, then the steam generator blowdown would be a less-significant release point.  Similarly, for gaseous releases of radionuclides other than noble gases (i.e., iodine, particulates, and tritium), if the total effluents are 10 Ci (iodine, particulates, and tritium), and the refueling water storage tank released 0.009 Ci of iodine, particulates, and tritium, then the refueling water storage tank would be a less-significant release pointIn both examples, the sample frequency can be adjusted to an appropriate frequency for the less-significant release point.  Samples collected from these systems for other programs (e.g., detection of primary-to-secondary leakage) must still be collected and analyzed at the frequencies specified by the other programs.
Staff Requirements for SECY-98-144, White Paper on Risk Informed and Performance-Based Regulation, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, March 1, 1999.  (ADAMS
ML003753593)  
2.


licensed materialSource material, special nuclear material, or byproduct material received, possessed, used, transferred, or disposed under a general or specific license issued by the Commission.
10 CFR Part 20, Standards for Protection against Radiation, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.


lower limit of detection (LLD)The a priori smallest concentration of radioactive material in a sample that will yield a net count, above system background, that will be detected with
3.
95-percent probability with only a 5-percent probability of falsely concluding that a blank observation represents a real signal (see NUREG-1301, NUREG-1302, and NUREG/CR-4007, Lower Limit of Detection:  Definition and Elaboration of a Proposed Position for Radiological Effluent and Environmental Measurements, issued September 1984 (Ref. 93)).  


maximum exposed individualIndividuals characterized as maximum exposed with regard to food consumption, occupancy, and other usage in the vicinity of the plant site. As such, the maximum exposed individual represents individuals with habits that are considered to be maximum reasonable deviations from the average for the population in general. Additionally, in physiological or metabolic respects, the maximum exposed individual is assumed to have those characteristics that represent the averages for the corresponding age group in the general population.  (This term typically refers to members of the public.)  RG 1.109 contains additional information.
10 CFR Part 50, Domestic Licensing of Production and Utilization Facilities, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.


member of the public (10 CFR Part 20)Any individual except when that individual is receiving an occupational dose.
4.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 58 member of the public (40 CFR Part 190)Any individual that can receive a radiation dose in the general environment, whether the individual may or may not also be exposed to radiation in an occupation associated with a nuclear fuel cycle. However, an individual is not considered a member of the public during any period in which the individual is engaged in carrying out any operation that is part of a nuclear fuel cycle.
10 CFR Part 72, Licensing Requirements for the Independent Storage of Spent Nuclear Fuel, High Level Radioactive Waste, and Reactor-Related Greater Than Class C Waste, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.


minimum detectable concentrationThe smallest activity concentration measurement that is practically achievable with a given instrument and type of measurement procedure.  The minimum detectable concentration depends on factors involved in the survey measurement process (surface type, geometry, backscatter, and self-absorption) and is typically calculated following an actual sample analysis (a posteriori).  (See NUREG-1507, Minimum Detectable Concentrations with Typical Radiation Survey Instruments for Various Contaminants and Field Conditions, issued June 1998 (Ref. 94)).  
5.


mixed mode releaseA gaseous effluent release made from a height higher than a ground-level release but less than an elevated release where, sometimes, because of a lack of plume rise (e.g., buoyancy, momentum, wind speed), a proper estimate of radionuclide transport and diffusion requires mathematically splitting the plume into (1) an elevated component and (2) a ground-level component to properly account for building wake effects, release, or ambient conditions (or a combination of all three). (RG 1.111 contains further guidance.)
Regulatory Guide 1.109, Calculation of Annual Doses to Man from Routine Releases of Reactor Effluents for the Purpose of Demonstrating Compliance with 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I,  
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.


monitoringWith respect to radiation or radiation protection, the measurement of radiation levels, concentrations, surface area concentrations, or quantities of radioactive material and the use of results of these measurements to evaluate potential exposures and doses.
6.


nonroutine, planned dischargeAn effluent release from a release point not defined in the ODCM but that has been planned, monitored, and discharged in accordance with 10 CFR 20.2001 (e.g., the discharge of water recovered during a spill or leak from a temporary storage tank).  
SECY-03-0069, Results of the License Termination Rule Analysis, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, May 2, 2003.


nuclear fuel cycleThe operations defined to be associated with the production of electrical power for public use by any fuel cycle through the use of nuclear energy (see 40 CFR 190.02).  
7.


offsite environsLocations outside the site boundary in the unrestricted area.
Regulatory Guide 4.1, Programs for Monitoring Radioactivity in the Environs of Nuclear Power Plants, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.


onsite environsLocations within the site boundary but outside of the systems, structures, or components described in the final safety analysis report or the ODCM.
8.


operability (operable)The ability of a system, subsystem, train, component, or device to perform its specified safety function(s) and the ability of all necessary attendant instrumentation, controls, normal or emergency electrical power, cooling and seal water, lubrication, and other auxiliary equipment (required for the system, subsystem, train, component, or device to perform its specified safety function(s)) to perform their related support function(s).
Regulatory Guide 4.15, Quality Assurance for Radiological Monitoring Programs (Inception through Normal Operations to License Termination)Effluent Streams and the Environment, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.


principal radionuclideOne of the principal gamma emitters listed in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302, Tables 4.11-1 and 4.11-2, or, from a risk-informed perspective, a radionuclide that contributes either (1) greater than 1 percent of the 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, design objective dose when all radionuclides in the type of effluent are considered, or (2) greater than 1 percent of the activity of all nuclides in the type of effluent being considered.  RG 1.109 lists the three types of effluents as (1) liquid effluents, (2) noble gases discharged to the atmosphere, and (3) all other nuclides discharged to the atmosphere.  In this RG, the terms principal radionuclide and
9.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 59 principal nuclide are synonymous since this document is only concerned with measuring, evaluating, and reporting radioactive materials in effluents.
NUREG-1301, Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Guidance:  Standard Radiological Effluent Controls for Pressurized Water Reactors, April 1991. (ADAMS Accession No. ML091050061)
10.


radioactive dischargeThe emission of an effluent (i.e., containing plant-related, licensed radioactive material) into the unrestricted area. (See also the definition for effluent discharge.)  
NUREG-1302, Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Guidance:  Standard Radiological Effluent Controls for Boiling Water Reactors, April 1991. (ADAMS Accession No. ML091050059)  
11.


radioactive releaseThe emission of an effluent (i.e., containing plant-related, licensed radioactive material) into the onsite environs.  (See also the definition for effluent release.)
Generic Letter 89-01, Implementation of Programmatic and Procedural Controls for Radiological Effluent Technical Specifications, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC,
January 31, 1989.


real exposure pathwayAn exposure pathway in which plant-related radionuclides in the environment at (or from) a specified location cause exposure to an actual individual. For example, the grass-cow-milk-infant-thyroid exposure pathway would be considered a real exposure pathway if the grass, the cow, and the milk actually existed at a specified location and an infant actually consumed the milk. For purposes of compliance with 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, the individual must be a member of the public in the unrestricted area.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 51
12.


real individual (10 CFR 72) Any individual who lives, works, or engages in recreation or other activities close to the ISFSI/MRS for a significant portion of the year.
IE Bulletin No. 80-10, Contamination of Nonradioactive System and Resulting Potential for Unmonitored, Uncontrolled Release of Radioactivity to Environment, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, May 6, 1980.


release sourceA system, structure, or component (containing radioactive material under the licensees control) where radioactive materials are contained before release.
13.


release pointA location from which radioactive materials are released from a system, structure, or component (including evaporative releases and leaching from ponds and lakes in the controlled or restricted area before release under 10 CFR 20.2001).  For release points monitored by plant process radiation monitoring systems, the release point is associated with the piping immediately downstream of the radiation monitor.  (See also the definition for significant release point.) 
NUREG-1757, Consolidated Decommissioning Guidance, September 2006.
Several release sources may contribute to a common release point.


residual radioactivityRadioactivity in structures, materials, soils, groundwater, and other media at a site resulting from activities under the licensees control.  This includes radioactivity from all licensed and unlicensed sources used by the licensee, but it excludes background radiation.  It also includes radioactive materials remaining at the site as a result of routine or accidental releases of radioactive material at the site and previous burials at the site, even if those burials were made in accordance with 10 CFR Part 20.
14.


restricted areaAn area, access to which is limited by the licensee for the purpose of protecting individuals against undue risks from exposure to radiation and radioactive materials.  Restricted area does not include areas used as residential quarters, but separate rooms in a residential building may be set apart as a restricted area.
NUREG-1576, Multi-Agency Radiological Laboratory Analytical Protocols Manual, July 2004.


route of exposureA specific path (or delivery mechanism) by which radioactive material can eventually cause a radiation dose to an individual.  The path typically includes a type of environmental medium (e.g., air, grass, meat, or water) as the starting point and a recipients organ or body as the end point.  For example, the grass-cow-milk-infant-thyroid route of exposure may contribute to the ingestion exposure pathway.  Additionally, several routes of exposure may contribute to a single exposure pathway.
15.


scaling factorA factor used to estimate the unknown activity of a radionuclide based on its ratio to the activity of a readily measured radionuclide or other parameter (e.g., carbon-14 scaled to power generation).  
NUREG-1022, Event Reporting Guidelines 10 CFR 50.72 and 50.73, October 2000.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 60
16.


significant contaminationAs used for 10 CFR 50.75(g) recordkeeping, a quantity, concentration, or both, of residual radioactivity that would require remediation during decommissioning in order to terminate the license by meeting the unrestricted use criteria stated in 10 CFR 20.1402 (see NUREG-1757).  
NUREG/BR-0308, Effective Risk Communication, January 2004.


significant release pointAny location from which radioactive material is released that contributes greater than 1 percent of the activity discharged from all the release points for a particular type of effluent considered.  RG 1.109 lists the three types of effluent as (1) liquid effluents, (2) noble gases discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste, and (3) all other radionuclides discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste.
17.


significant residual radioactivitySee the definition for significant contamination.
NUREG/CR-6676, Probabilistic Dose Analysis Parameter Distributions Developed for RESRAD
and RESRAD-BUILD Codes, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, July,
2000, (ADAMS Accession No. ML003741920).
18.


site boundaryThe line beyond which the licensee owns, leases, or otherwise controls land or property.
NUREG/CR-6692, Probabilistic Modules for the RESRAD and RESRAD-BUILD Computer Codes, November, 2000, (ADAMS Accession No. ML003774030).
19.


solid radioactive waste (solid waste)solid material for which the licensee foresees no further use.
NUREG/CR-6697,  Development of Probabilistic RESRAD 6.0 and RESRAD-BUILD 3.0
Computer Codes, December 2000, (ADAMS Accession No. ML010090284).
20.


source checkA qualitative assessment of the channel response when the channel sensor is exposed to a source of increased radioactivity.
Regulatory Guide 4.15, Quality Assurance for Radiological Monitoring Programs (Inception through Normal Operations to License Termination)Effluent Streams and the Environment, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.


standard (instrument or source) (see ANSI N323C-2009 and ANSI N42.22-2006, Traceability of Radioactive Sources to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and Associated Instrument Quality Control (Ref. 95):
21.


*
IAEA Technical Report Series Number 421, Management of Waste Containing Tritium and Carbon-14, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, 2004.2
National standarda standard determined by a nationally recognized, competent authority to serve as the basis for assigning values to other standards of the quantity concerned. In the United States, this is an instrument, source, or other system or device maintained and promulgated by the NIST.
22.


*
NUREG-0017, Calculation of Releases of Radioactive Materials in Gaseous and Liquid Effluents from Pressurized Water Reactors PWR-GALE Code, Revision 1, April 1985
Primary standarda standard that is designated or widely acknowledged as having the highest metrological qualities and whose value is accepted without reference to other standards of the same quantity.
23.


*
NCRP Report No. 81, Carbon-14 in the Environment, National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements, Bethesda, MD, January 1985.
Secondary standarda standard whose value is assigned by comparison with a primary standard of the same quantity.


*
24.
Reference standarda standard, generally having the highest metrological quality available at a given location or in a given organization, from which measurements made there are derived.


*
ASTM D 3370-07, Standard Practices for Sampling Water from Closed Conduits, American Society for Testing and Materials, West Conshohocken, PA, 2007.
Transfer standardA standard used as an intermediary to compare standards.  (If the intermediary is not a standard, the term transfer device should be used.


*
25.
Working standarda standard that is used routinely to calibrate or check material measures, measuring instruments, or reference materials. A working standard is usually traceable to the NIST.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 61 surveyAn evaluation of the radiological conditions and potential hazards incident to the production, use, transfer, release, disposal, or presence of radioactive material or other sources of radiation.
ANSI N42.18-2004, Specification and Performance of On-Site Instrumentation for Continuously Monitoring Radioactivity in Effluents, American National Standards Institute, New York, NY,  
January 2004.


When appropriate, such an evaluation includes a physical survey of the location of radioactive material and measurements or calculations of levels of radiation, or concentrations or quantities of radioactive material present.
26.


type of effluentA grouping of radioactive releases into one of the three categories listed in
ANSI/HPS N13.1-1999, Sampling and Monitoring Releases of Airborne Radioactive Substances from the Stacks and Ducts of Nuclear Facilities, American National Standards Institute, New York, NY, January 1999.
10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, paragraphs A-C.  RG 1.109 classifies the three categories as
(1) liquid effluents, (2) noble gases discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste, and (3) all other nuclides discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste.


unlicensed materialRadioactive material discharged as licensed material in effluents and background radioactivity (including global fallout).  Licensed radioactive material becomes unlicensed radioactive material upon discharge in effluents, in accordance with 10 CFR 20.2001.
2 Copies of the non-NRC documents included in these references may be obtained directly from the publishing organization.


uncontrolled dischargeAn effluent discharge that does not meet the definition of a controlled discharge. (See also the definition of controlled discharge.)
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 52
27.


uncontrolled releaseAn effluent release that does not meet the definition of a controlled release. (See also the definition of controlled release).  
Regulatory Guide 1.23, Meteorological Monitoring Programs for Nuclear Power Plants, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.


unplanned dischargeThe unintended or unexpected discharge of liquid or airborne radioactive material to the unrestricted area. Examples of an unplanned discharge include the following: 
28.


*
Regulatory Guide 1.111, Methods for Estimating Atmospheric Transport and Dispersion of Gaseous Effluents in Routine Releases from Light-Water-Cooled Reactors, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.
the unintentional discharge of a wrong waste gas decay tank (or bulk liquid radioactive waste tank), or 


*
29.
the failure of a radiation monitor to divert liquid to the radioactive waste system in the case where radioactivity is present and the automatic alarm/trip function fails to divert material to liquid radioactive waste and that material (or a portion of that material) instead discharges to the environment.


unplanned releaseThe unintended or unexpected release of liquid or airborne radioactive material to the onsite environment.  An example of an unplanned release would include a plant occurrence that results in a leak or spill of radioactive material to onsite areas, requiring a report under
NUREG-0133, Preparation of Radiological Effluent Technical Specifications for Nuclear Power Plants, October 1978. (ADAMS Accession No. ML091050057)  
10 CFR 50.72, Immediate notification requirements for operating nuclear power reactors, or
30.
10 CFR 50.73, License event report system.  (See HPPOS-254, Definition of Unplanned Release, issued February 1994 (Ref. 96)).  


For example, if a licensee has prepared documents describing an intended release (e.g., a preliminary radioactive waste release permit) in advance of the evolution, and the intended release occurs as planned, then the release is a planned release.  If such documents (e.g., a preliminary release permit) are not prepared (or considered/evaluated) before the release, it is potentially an unplanned release (and additional information may be required to determine if it is an unplanned release).  
Regulatory Guide 1.113, Estimating Aquatic Dispersion of Effluents from Accidental and Routine Reactor Releases for the Purpose of Implementing Appendix I, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 62 unrestricted areaAn area for which the licensee neither limits nor controls access.
31.


uranium fuel cycleThe operations of milling of uranium ore, chemical conversion of uranium, isotopic enrichment of uranium, fabrication of uranium fuel, generation of electricity by a light-water-cooled nuclear power plant using uranium fuel, and reprocessing of spent uranium fuel, to the extent that these directly support the production of electrical power for public use using nuclear energy, but excludes mining operations, operations at waste disposal sites, transportation of any radioactive material in support of these operations, and the reuse of recovered nonuranium special nuclear and byproduct materials from the cycle.
ANSI/ANS 2.17-2009, Evaluation of Subsurface Radionuclide Transport at Commercial Nuclear Power Production Facilities, American National Standards Institute, New York, NY (draft 2009).
32.


/Q  Referred to as Chi over Q, the average atmospheric effluent concentration, , normalized by release rate, Q, at a distance (or location) in a given downwind direction.  Expressed in another way, /Q is the concentration () of airborne radioactive material (e.g., in units of Ci/m3) divided by the release rate (Q) (e.g., in units of Ci/s) at a specified distance and direction downwind of the release point.
NUREG/CR-6948, Integrated Ground-Water Monitoring Strategy for NRC-Licensed Facilities and Sites: Logic, Strategic Approach and Discussion, November 2007.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 63 REFERENCES13
33.


1.
EPRI Report No. 1011730, Ground Water Monitoring Guidance for Nuclear Power Plants, Electric Power Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA, September 2005.


U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Standards for Protection Against Radiation, Part 20,
34.
Chapter 1, Title 10, Energy.


2.
EPRI Report No. 1015118, Ground Water Protection Guidelines for Nuclear Power Plants, Electric Power Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA, November 2007.


CFR, Environmental Radiation Protection Standards for Nuclear Power Operations, Part 190,
35.
Chapter 1, Title 40, Protection of Environment.


3.
40 CFR Part 190, Environmental Radiation Protection Standards for Nuclear Power Operations, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC.


U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), Staff RequirementsSECY-98-144White Paper on Risk Informed and Performance-Based Regulation, SRM-SECY-98-144, February 24, 1999 ADAMS Accession No. ML003753593.
36.


4.
ICRP Publication 2, Report of Committee II on Permissible Dose for Internal Radiation, International Commission on Radiation Protection, Pergamon Press, Oxford, 1959
37.


CFR, Domestic Licensing of Production and Utilization Facilities, Part 50, Chapter 1, Title 10,  
Federal Register, 10 CFR 20, Final Rule, Standards for Protection Against Radiation, Volume
Energy.
56, Number 98, page 23374, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, May 21,  
1991. (ADAMS Accession No. ML091050050)
38.


5.
Federal Register, 40 CFR 190, Environmental Radiation Protection Standards for Nuclear Power Operations, Volume 42, Number 9, page 2859, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, January 13, 1977.


CFR, Licenses, Certifications, and Approvals for Nuclear Power Plants, Part 52, Chapter 1, Title 10, Energy.
39.


6.
NUREG-0543, Methods for Demonstrating Compliance with the EPA Uranium Fuel Cycle Standard (40 CFR Part 190), February, 1980, (ADAMS Accession No. ML081360410)
40.


CFR, Licensing Requirements for the Independent Storage of Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Radioactive Waste, and Reactor-Related Greater Than Class C Waste, Part 72, Chapter 1, Title 10, Energy.
M. Maiello, The Variations in Long Term TLD Measurements of Environmental Background Radiation at Locations in Southeastern New York State and Southern New Jersey, Health Physics, Volume 72, Number 6, June 1997, pp. 915-922.


7.
41.


CFR, Environmental Radiation Protection Standards for Management and Disposal of Spent Nuclear Fuel and Transuranic Radioactive Wastes, Part 191, Chapter 1, Title 40, Standards.
ANSI N545-1975, Performance Testing and Procedural Specifications for Thermoluminescence Dosimetry (Environmental Applications), American National Standards Institute, 1975.


8.
Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 53
42.


NRC, Regulatory Guide (RG) 1.23, Meteorological Monitoring Programs for Nuclear Power Plants, Revision 1, March 2007.
ANSI/HPS N13.11-2009, American National Standard for Dosimetry Personnel Dosimetry Performance Criteria for Testing, American National Standard, January 13, 2009.


9.
43.


NRC, RG 1.97, Instrumentation for Light-Water-Cooled Nuclear Power Plants to Assess Plant and Environs Conditions During and Following an Accident, Revision 0, December 1975;
Regulatory Guides 1.111, Calculation of Releases of Radioactive Materials in Gaseous and Liquid Effluents from Light-Water-Cooled Power Reactors, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, April, 1976.
Revision 1, August 1977; Revision 2, December 1980; and Revision 3, May 1983.


10.
44.


NRC, RG 1.97, Criteria for Accident Monitoring Instrumentation for Nuclear Power Plants, Regulatory Guide 1.97, Revision 4, June 2006.
WASH-1258, Final Environmental Statement Concerning Proposed Rule Making Action: 
Numerical Guides for Design Objectives and Limiting Conditions for Operation To Meet the Criterion As Low As Practical for Radioactive Material in Light-Water-Cooled Power Reactor Effluents, July, 1973.


11.
45.


IEEE, Standard Criteria for Accident Monitoring Instrumentation for Nuclear Power Generating Stations, Std. 497-2002, New York, NY.
BNWL-1754, Models and Computer Codes for Evaluating Environmental Radiation Doses, February, 1974.


12.
46.


NRC, RG 1.97, Criteria for Accident Monitoring Instrumentation for Nuclear Power Plants, Regulatory Guide 1.97, Revision 5, April 2019.
ICRP Publication 60, ICRP Publication 60: 1990 Recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection, 60, Annals of the ICRP Volume 21/1-3, International Commission on Radiation Protection, October, 1991.


13.
47.


IEEE, Standard Criteria for Accident Monitoring Instrumentation for Nuclear Power Generating Stations, Std. 497-2016, New York, NY.
Federal Guidance Report Number 11, Limiting Values of Radionuclide Intake and Air Concentration and Dose Conversion factors for Inhalation, Submersion, and Ingestion, Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Environmental Protection Agency, 1988.


13 Publicly available NRC published documents are available electronically through the NRC Library on the NRCs public Web site at http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/index.html and through the NRCs ADAMS at http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/adams.html.  The documents can also be viewed online or printed for a fee in the NRCs Public Document Room (PDR) at 11555 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD.  For problems with ADAMS, contact the PDR staff at 301-415-4737 or (800) 397-4209; fax (301) 415-3548; or e-mail pdr.resource@nrc.gov.
48.


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 64
ASTM E-29, Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications, American Society for Testing and Materials International, DOI: 10.1520/E0029-
14.
08.


NRC, RG 1.109, Calculation of Annual Doses to Man from Routine Releases of Reactor Effluents for the Purpose of Evaluating Compliance with 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I,
49.
Revision 1, October 1977.


15.
NUREG/CR-5569, Health Physics Positions Data Base, HPPOS-099, Attention to Liquid Dilution Volumes in Semiannual Radioactive Effluent Release Reports, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, November 1984.


NRC, RG 1.111, Methods for Estimating Atmospheric Transport and Dispersion of Gaseous Effluents in Routine Releases from Light-Water-Cooled Reactors, Revision 1, July 1977.
50.


16.
NEI 07-07, Industry Ground Water Protection InitiativeFinal Guidance Document, Nuclear Energy Institute, Washington, DC, August 2007. (ADAMS Accession No. ML072610036)
51.


NRC, RG 1.112, Calculation of Releases of Radioactive Materials in Gaseous and Liquid Effluents from Light-Water-Cooled Power Reactors, Revision 1, March 2007.
NUREG/CR-4007, Lower Limit of Detection:  Definition and Elaboration of a Proposed Position for Radiological Effluent and Environmental Measurements, September 1984.


17.
52.


NRC, RG 1.113, Estimating Aquatic Dispersion of Effluents from Accidental and Routine Reactor Releases for the Purpose of Implementing Appendix I, Revision 1, April 1977.
NUREG-1507, Minimum Detectable Concentrations with Typical Radiation Survey Instruments for Various Contaminants and Field Conditions, June 1998.


18.
53.


NRC, RG 1.184, Decommissioning of Nuclear Power Reactors," Revision 1, October 2013.
NUREG/CR-5569, Health Physics Positions Data Base, HPPOS-254, Definition of Unplanned Release, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, February, 1994.


19.
54.


NRC, RG 1.185, Standard Format and Content for Post-Shutdown Decommissioning Activities Report, Revision 1, June 2013.
NUREG/CR-6805, A Comprehensive Strategy of Hydrogeology Modeling and Uncertainty Analysis For Nuclear Facilities and Sites, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, July, 2003.


20.
Rev. 2 of RG-1.21, Page 54


NRC, RG 4.1, Radiological Environmental Monitoring for Nuclear Power Plants, Revision 2, June 2009.
BIBLIOGRAPHY


21.
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Documents 


NRC, RG 4.13, Environmental DosimetryPerformance Specifications, Testing, and Data Analysis, Revision 2, June 2019.
NUREG-Series Reports NUREG-0800, Standard Review Plan for the Review of Safety Analysis Reports for Nuclear Power Plants, March 2007 (Section 2.3.5). 


22.
NUREG-0324, XOQDOQ, Program for the Meteorological Evaluation of Routine Effluent Releases at Nuclear Power Stations, September 1977.


NRC, RG 4.15, Quality Assurance for Radiological Monitoring Programs (Inception Through Normal Operations to License Termination)Effluent Streams and the Environment, Revision 2, July 2007.
NUREG/CR-2919, XOQDOQ Computer Program for the Meteorological Evaluation of Routine Effluent Releases at Nuclear Power Stations, September, 1982 


23.
Regulatory Guides Regulatory Guide 1.143, Design Guidance for Radioactive Waste Management Systems, Structures, and Components Installed in Light-Water-Cooled Nuclear Power Plants, Revision 2, November 2001.


NRC, RG 4.20, Constraint on Releases of Airborne Radioactive Materials to the Environment for Licensees other than Power Reactors, Revision 1, April 2012.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Documents
40 CFR Part 141, National Primary Drinking Water Regulations, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC.


24.
National Standards ANSI N13.30-1996, Performance Criteria for Radiobioassay, American National Standards Institute, New York, NY, May, 1996.


NRC, RG 4.25, Assessment of Abnormal Radionuclide Discharges in Groundwater to the Unrestricted Area at Nuclear Power Plant Sites, Revision 0, March 2017.
ANSI/ANS 3.11-2005, Determining Meteorological Information at Nuclear Facilities, American National Standards Institute, New York, NY, January 2005.


25.
ANSI N42.14-1999, Calibration and Use of Germanium Spectrometers for the Measurement of Gamma- Ray Emission Rates of Radionuclides, American National Standards Institute, New York, NY, May 1999.


NRC, Generic Letter 89-01, Implementation of Programmatic and Procedural Controls for Radiological Effluent Technical Specifications, January 31, 1989, ADAMS Accession No. ML031140051.
ANSI/NCSL Z540-2-1997 (reapproved 2002), American National Standard for Expressing Uncertainty--
U.S. Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement, American National Standards Institute, New York, NY, January 1997.


26.
NIST Technical Note 1297, Guidelines for Evaluating and Expressing the Uncertainty of NIST
Measurement Results, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, September
1994.


NUREG-0133, "Preparation of Radiological Effluent Technical Specifications for Nuclear Power Plants" issued October 1978, ADAMS Accession No. ML091050057.
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-1 APPENDIX A - TABLES


27.
Table A-1. Gaseous EffluentsSummation of All Releases Summation of All Releases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Uncertainty Fission and Activation Gases Ci


NRC, NUREG-0016, Calculation of Releases of Radioactive Materials in Gaseous and Liquid Effluents from Boiling-Water Reactors:  GALE-BWR 3.2 Code, Revision 1, January 1979, ADAMS Accession No. ML091910213, and Revision 2, July 2020, ADAMS Accession No. ML20213C728.
Average Release Rate Ci/s


28.
% of Limit
%


NRC, NUREG-0017, Calculation of Releases of Radioactive Materials in Gaseous and Liquid Effluents from Pressurized Water Reactors:  GALE-PWR 3.2 Code, Revision 1, April 1985, ADAMS Accession No. ML112720A411, and Revision 2, July 2020, ADAMS Accession No. ML20213C729.
Iodines (Halogens)
Ci


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 65
Average Release Rate Ci/s


29.
% of Limit
%


NRC, NUREG-0543, Methods for Demonstrating LWR Compliance with the EPA Uranium Fuel Cycle Standard (CFR Part 190), issued January 1980, ADAMS Accession No. ML081360410.
Particulates Ci


30.
Average Release Rate Ci/s


NRC, NUREG-0737, Clarification of TMI Action Plan Requirements, November 1980,
% of Limit
ADAMS Accession No. ML051400209.
%


31.
Tritium Ci


NRC, NUREG-1301, Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Guidance:  Standard Radiological Effluent Controls for Pressurized Water Reactors, April 1991, ADAMS Accession No. ML091050061.
Average Release Rate Ci/s


32.
% of Limit
%


NRC, NUREG-1302, Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Guidance:  Standard Radiological Effluent Controls for Boiling Water Reactors, April 1991, ADAMS Accession No. ML091050059.
Gross Alpha Ci


33.
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-2 Table A-1A.  Gaseous EffluentsGround-Level ReleaseBatch Mode Fission and Activation Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Ar-41 Ci


NRC, NUREG-1575, Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation Manual (MARSSIM), Revision 1, August 2000, ADAMS Accession No. ML082470583.
Kr-85 Ci


34.
Kr-85m Ci


NRC, NUREG-1576, Multi-Agency Radiological Laboratory Analytical Protocols Manual, July 2004, ADAMS Accession No. ML042310547, ML042310738, and ML042320083.
Kr-87 Ci


35.
Kr-88 Ci


NRC, NUREG-1757, Consolidated Decommissioning Guidance: Characterization, Survey, and Determination of Radiological Criteria, Volume 2, Revision 1, September 2006, ADAMS
Xe-131m Ci
Accession No. ML063000243.


36.
Xe-133 Ci


NRC, NUREG-1940, RASCAL 4: Description of Models and Methods, December 2012, ADAMS Accession No. ML13031A448.
Xe-133m Ci


37.
Xe-135 Ci


NRC, NUREG-1940, RASCAL 4.3:  Description of Models and Methods, Supplement 1, May 2015, ADAMS Accession No. ML15132A119.
Xe-135m Ci


38.
Xe-138 Ci


NRC, NUREG/CR-6948, Integrated Ground-Water Monitoring Strategy for NRC-Licensed Facilities and Sites:  Logic, Strategic Approach and Discussion, Volume 1, November 2007, ADAMS Accession No. ML073310297.
(List Others)
Ci


39.
Total Ci


NRC, NUREG/CR-6805, A Comprehensive Strategy of Hydrogeology Modeling and Uncertainty Analysis for Nuclear Facilities and Sites, July 2003, ADAMS Accession No. ML032470827.
Iodines/Halogens Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total I-131 Ci


40.
I-132 Ci


NRC, Regulatory Issue Summary (RIS) 2008-03, Return/Reuse of Previously Discharged Radioactive Effluents February 2008, ADAMS Accession No. ML072120368.
I-133 Ci


41.
I-134 Ci


NRC International Policy Statement, ADAMS Accession No. ML14132A317.
I-135 Ci


42.
Total Ci


NRC Management Directive and Handbook 6.6, Regulatory Guides ADAMS Accession No.
Particulates Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Co-58 Ci


ML16083A122.
Co-60
Ci


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 66
Sr-89 Ci
43.


IAEA, Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment, GSG-8, Vienna, Austria,
Sr-90
2018.14 
Ci


44.
Cs-134 Ci


IAEA, Dispersion of Radioactive Material in Air and Water and Consideration of Population Distribution in Site Evaluation for Nuclear Power Plants, Specific Safety Guide No. NS-G-3.2, Vienna, Austria, 2002.
(List Others)
Ci


45.
Total Ci


IAEA, Regulatory Control of Radioactive Discharges to the Environment, GSG-9, Vienna, Austria, 2018.
Tritium Ci


46.
Gross Alpha Ci


IAEA, Environmental and Source Monitoring for Purposes of Radiation Protection, GSG RS-G-1.8, Vienna, Austria, 2005.
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-3 Table A-1B.  Gaseous EffluentsGround-Level ReleaseContinuous Mode Fission and Activation Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Ar-41 Ci


47.
Kr-85 Ci


IAEA, Accident Monitoring Systems for Nuclear Power Plants, Nuclear Energy Series NP-T-3.16, Vienna, Austria, 2015.
Kr-85m Ci


48.
Kr-87 Ci


IAEA, Prevention and Mitigation of Groundwater Contamination from Radioactive Releases, TECDOC-482, Vienna, Austria, 1988.
Kr-88 Ci


49.
Xe-131m Ci


IAEA, Remediation Process for Areas Affected by Past Activities and Accidents, IAEA Safety Guide No. WS-G-3.1, Vienna, Austria, 2007.
Xe-133 Ci


50.
Xe-133m Ci


IAEA, Management of Waste Containing Tritium and Carbon-14, Technical Report Series Number 421, Vienna, Austria, 2004.
Xe-135 Ci


51.
Xe-135m Ci


NRC, RG 1.21, Measuring, Evaluating, and Reporting Radioactive Material in Liquid and Gaseous Effluents and Solid Waste, Revision 1, June 1974.
Xe-138 Ci


52.
(List Others)


NRC, RG 1.21, Measuring, Evaluating, and Reporting Radioactive Material in Liquid and Gaseous Effluents and Solid Waste, Revision 2, June 2009.
Total Ci


53.
Iodines/Halogens Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total I-131 Ci


NRC, Contamination of Nonradioactive System and Resulting Potential for Unmonitored, Uncontrolled Release of Radioactivity to Environment, Inspection and Enforcement Bulletin No. 80-10, May 1980.
I-132 Ci


54.
I-133 Ci


NRC, Results of the License Termination Rule Analysis, Commission Paper SECY-03-0069, May 23, 2003, ADAMS Accession No. ML030800158.
I-134 Ci


55.
I-135 Ci


NRC, NUREG-1022, Event Reporting Guidelines 10 CFR 50.72 and 50.73: Final Report, January 2013, ADAMS Accession No. ML13032A220.
Total Ci


56.
Particulates Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Co-58 Ci


NRC, NUREG/BR-0308, Effective Risk Communication, January 2004, ADAMS Accession No. ML040690412.
Co-60
Ci


57.
Sr-89 Ci


NRC, SRM-SECY-13-108, Staff RequirementsSECY-13-108Staff Recommendations for Addressing Remediation of Residual Radioactivity During Operations, December 20, 2013, ADAMS Accession No. ML13354B759.
Sr-90
Ci


14 Copies of IAEA documents may be obtained through their Web site: https://www.iaea.org/ or by writing the International Atomic Energy Agency, P.O. Box 100 Wagramer Strasse 5, A-1400 Vienna, Austria.
Cs-134 Ci


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 67
(List Others)
58.
Ci


EPRI15 Report 1021104 Groundwater and Soil Remediation Guidelines for Nuclear Power Plants, (Proprietary report), December 2010.
Total Ci


59.
Tritium Ci


EPRI Report 1023464, Groundwater and Soil Remediation Guidelines for Nuclear Power Plants (Public Edition), July 2011.
Gross Alpha Ci


60.
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-4 Table A-1C.  Gaseous EffluentsElevated ReleaseBatch Mode Fission and Activation Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Ar-41 Ci


NRC, NUREG/CR-6676, Probabilistic Dose Analysis Using Parameter Distributions Developed for RESRAD and RESRAD-BUILD Codes, July 2000, ADAMS Accession No. ML003741920.
Kr-85 Ci


61.
Kr-85m Ci


NRC, NUREG/CR-6692, Probabilistic Modules for the RESRAD and RESRAD-BUILD
Kr-87 Ci
Computer Codes, November 2000, ADAMS Accession No. ML003774030.


62.
Kr-88 Ci


NRC, NUREG/CR-6697, Development of Probabilistic RESRAD 6.0 and RESRAD-BUILD
Xe-131m Ci
3.0 Computer Codes, December 2000, ADAMS Accession No. ML010090284.


63.
Xe-133 Ci


NRC, NUREG/CR-7267, Default Parameter Values and Distributions in RESRAD-ONSITE
Xe-133m Ci
V7.2, RESRAD-BUILD V3.5 and RESRAD-OFFSITE V4.0 Computer Codes, February 2020,
ADAMS Accession No. ML20279A652.


64.
Xe-135 Ci


National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements, Carbon-14 in the Environment, Report No. 81, Bethesda, MD, January 1985.
Xe-135m Ci


65.
Xe-138 Ci


EPRI, Estimation of Carbon-14 in Nuclear Power Plant Gaseous Effluents, Technical Report 1021106, Palo Alto, CA, December 2010.
(List Others)
Ci


66.
Total Ci


EPRI, "Carbon-14 Dose Calculation Methods at Nuclear Power Plants," Technical Report 1024827, Palo Alto, CA, April 2012.
Iodines/Halogens Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total I-131 Ci


67.
I-132 Ci


ASTM D3370 - 18, Standard Practices for Sampling Water from Flowing Process Streams ASTM D3370 - 18, West Conshohocken, PA, 2007.16
I-133 Ci


68.
I-134 Ci


American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Specification and Performance of On-Site Instrumentation for Continuously Monitoring Radioactivity in Effluents, ANSI N42.18-2004, New York, NY.
I-135 Ci


69.
Total Ci


ANSI Instrumentation and Systems for Monitoring Radioactivity, ANSI N42.54-2018, New York, NY
Particulates Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Co-58 Ci


70.
Co-60
Ci


ANSI /Health Physics Society, Sampling and Monitoring Releases of Airborne Radioactive Substances from the Stacks and Ducts of Nuclear Facilities, ANSI/HPS N13.1-2011, New York, NY.
Sr-89 Ci


71.
Sr-90
Ci


NRC, Onsite Meteorological Programs, Safety Guide 23, February 17, 1972, ADAMS
Cs-134 Ci
Accession No. ML020360030.


15 Copies of EPRI standards and reports may be obtained from EPRI, 3420 Hillview Ave., Palo Alto, CA 94304;
(List Others)
telephone (800) 313-3774; https://www.epri.com
Ci


16 Copies of ASTM standards may be purchased from ASTM, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania 19428-2959; telephone (610) 832-9585.  Purchase information is available through the ASTM Web site at http://www.astm.org.
Total Ci


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 68
Tritium Ci


72.
Gross Alpha Ci


ANSI /ANS, Evaluation of Subsurface Radionuclide Transport at Commercial Nuclear Power Production Facilities, ANSI/ANS 2.17-2009, New York, NY.
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-5 Table A-1D.  Gaseous EffluentsElevated ReleaseContinuous Mode Fission and Activation Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Ar-41 Ci


73.
Kr-85 Ci


EPRI Groundwater Monitoring Guidance for Nuclear Power Plants, Report No. 1011730,
Kr-85m Ci
Electric Power Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA., October 2013.


74.
Kr-87 Ci


EPRI, Groundwater Protection Guidelines for Nuclear Power Plants Revision 1, Report No. 3002000546, Electric Power Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA., October 2013.
Kr-88 Ci


75.
Xe-131m Ci


ANSI, Radiation Protection Instrumentation Test and CalibrationAir Monitoring Instruments, ANSI N323C-2009, New York, NY.
Xe-133 Ci


76.
Xe-133m Ci


D.G. Eisenhut, NRC, memorandum for Regional Administrators, Proposed Guidance for Calibration and Surveillance Requirements for Equipment Provided to Meet Item II.F.1, Attachments 1, 2, and 3, NUREG-0737, August 16, 1982, ADAMS Accession No. ML103420044.
Xe-135 Ci


77.
Xe-135m Ci


NRC, NUREG/CR-5569, Proposed Guidance for Calibration and Surveillance Requirements to Meet Item II.F.1 of NUREG-0737, HPPOS-001 in Health Physics Positions Data Base, Revision 1, February 1994, ADAMS Accession No. ML093220108.
Xe-138 Ci


78.
(List Others)
Ci


ANSI, Performance Specifications for Reactor Emergency Radiological Monitoring Instrumentation, ANSI N320-1978, New York, NY.
Total Ci


79.
Iodines/Halogens Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total I-131 Ci


ICRP Publication 2, Report of Committee II on Permissible Dose for Internal Radiation, International Commission on Radiation Protection, Pergamon Press, Oxford, 1959.
I-132 Ci


80.
I-133 Ci


Maiello, M., The Variations in Long Term TLD Measurements of Environmental Background Radiation at Locations in Southeastern New York State and Southern New Jersey, Health Physics, 72:915-922, June 1997.
I-134 Ci


81.
I-135 Ci


ANSI /HPS, American National Standard for Dosimetry Personnel Dosimetry Performance Criteria for Testing, ANSI/HPS N13.11-2009, New York NY, January 13, 2009.
Total Ci


82.
Particulates Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Co-58 Ci


ANSI/HPS, Environmental DosimetryCriteria for System Design and Implementation, ANSI/HPS N13.37-2014, New York NY, April 8, 2014.
Co-60
Ci


83.
Sr-89 Ci


NRC, NUREG-1430, Standard Technical Specifications, Babcock and Wilcox Plants, April
Sr-90
2012, ADAMS Accession No. ML12100A177 and ML12100A178.
Ci


84.
Cs-134 Ci


NRC, NUREG-1431, Standard Technical Specifications, Westinghouse Plants, April 2012, ADAMS Accession No. ML12100A222 and ML12100AA288.
(List Others)
Ci


85.
Total Ci


NRC, NUREG-1432, Standard Technical Specifications, Combustion Engineering Plants, April 2012, ADAMS Accession No. ML12102A165 and ML12102A169.
Tritium Ci


86.
Gross Alpha Ci


NRC, NUREG-1433, Standard Technical Specifications, General Electric BWR/4 Plants, April 2012, ADAMS Accession No. ML12024A192 and ML12104A193.
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-6 Table A-1E. Gaseous EffluentsMixed Mode ReleaseBatch Mode Fission and Activation Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Ar-41 Ci


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 69
Kr-85 Ci


87.
Kr-85m Ci


NRC, NUREG-1434, Standard Technical Specifications, General Electric BWR/6, April 2012, ADAMS Accession No. ML12104A195 and ML12104A196.
Kr-87 Ci


88.
Kr-88 Ci


NRC, RG 4.22, Decommissioning Planning During Operations, Revision 0, December 2012.
Xe-131m Ci


89.
Xe-133 Ci


ASTM, Standard Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications, ASTM E29, West Conshohocken, PA.
Xe-133m Ci


90.
Xe-135 Ci


NRC, NUREG/CR-5569, Attention to Liquid Dilution Volumes in Semiannual Radioactive Effluent Release Reports, HPPOS-099, in Health Physics Positions Data Base, November 1984, ADAMS Accession No. ML093220108.
Xe-135m Ci


91.
Xe-138 Ci


NEI, Industry Groundwater Protection InitiativeFinal Guidance Document, NEI 07-07, Revision 1, Washington, DC, February 26, 2019, ADAMS Accession No. ML20199M271.
(List Others)
Ci


92.
Total Ci


NRC, Management of Backfitting, Forward Fitting, Issue Finality, and
Iodines/Halogens Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total I-131 Ci


===
I-132 Ci


===Information Requests===
I-133 Ci
===
, Management Directive 8.4, September 2019, ADAMS Accession No. ML18093B087.


93.
I-134 Ci


NRC, NUREG/CR-4007, Lower Limit of Detection:  Definition and Elaboration of a Proposed Position for Radiological Effluent and Environmental Measurements, September 1984, ADAMS
I-135 Ci
Accession No. ML16152A647.


94.
Total Ci


NRC, NUREG-1507, Minimum Detectable Concentrations with Typical Radiation Survey Instruments for Various Contaminants and Field Conditions, June 1998, ADAMS Accession No. ML20233A507.
Particulates Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Co-58 Ci


95.
Co-60
Ci


ANSI, Traceability of Radioactive Sources to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and Associated Instrument Quality Control, ANSI N42.22-2006, New York, NY.
Sr-89 Ci


96.
Sr-90
Ci


NRC, NUREG/CR-5569, Definition of Unplanned Release, HPPOS-254, in Health Physics Positions Data Base, February 1994, ADAMS Accession No. ML093220108.
Cs-134 Ci


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Page 70
(List Others)
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Ci


U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Documents 
Total Ci


NUREG-Series Reports
Tritium Ci


U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Standard Review Plan for the Review of Safety Analysis Reports for Nuclear Power Plants, NUREG-0800, Section 2.3.5, Long-Term Atmosphere Dispersion Estimates for Routine Releases, Revision 3, Washington, DC, March 2007.
Gross Alpha Ci


XOQDOQ:  Program for the Meteorological Evaluation of Routine Effluent Releases at Nuclear Power Stations, NUREG-0324, September 1977, ADAMS Accession No. ML081360411.
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-7 Table A-1F. Gaseous EffluentsMixed Mode ReleaseContinuous Mode Fission and Activation Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Ar-41 Ci


XOQDOQ:  Computer Program for the Meteorological Evaluation of Routine Effluent Releases at Nuclear Power Stations, NUREG/CR-2919, September 1982, ADAMS Accession No. ML081360412.
Kr-85 Ci


Regulatory Guides 
Kr-85m Ci


U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Design Guidance for Radioactive Waste Management Systems, Structures, and Components Installed in Light-Water-Cooled Nuclear Power Plants, Regulatory Guide 1.143, Revision 2, November 2001.
Kr-87 Ci


U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Documents
Kr-88 Ci


U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, National Primary Drinking Water Regulations, Part 141, Chapter 1, Title 40, Protection of Environment.
Xe-131m Ci


National Standards and Industry Reports 
Xe-133 Ci


ANSI, Performance Criteria for Radiobioassay, ANSI N13.30-1996, New York, NY.
Xe-133m Ci


ANSI/ANS, Determining Meteorological Information at Nuclear Facilities, ANSI/ANS 3.11-2005, New York, NY.
Xe-135 Ci


ANSI, Calibration and Use of Germanium Spectrometers for the Measurement of Gamma-Ray Emission Rates of Radionuclides, ANSI N42.14-1999, New York, NY.
Xe-135m Ci


ANSI/National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), American National Standard for Expressing UncertaintyU.S. Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement, ANSI/NCSL Z540-2-1997 (reapproved 2002), New York, NY.
Xe-138 Ci


NIST, Guidelines for Evaluating and Expressing the Uncertainty of NIST Measurement Results, Technical Note 1297, Gaithersburg, MD, September 1994.
(List Others)
Ci


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-1
Total Ci


APPENDIX ATABLES
Iodines/Halogens Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total I-131 Ci


Table A-1 - Gaseous EffluentsSummation of All Releases SUMMATION OF
I-132 Ci
ALL RELEASES
UNITS


QUARTER
I-133 Ci
1 QUARTER
2 QUARTER
3 QUARTER
4 TOTAL


UNCERTAINTY
I-134 Ci
Fission and Activation Gases


Ci  
I-135 Ci
 
Total Ci  


Iodines (Halogens)
Particulates Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Co-58 Ci


Co-60
Ci  
Ci  


Particulates
Sr-89 Ci


Sr-90
Ci  
Ci  


Tritium
Cs-134 Ci


(List Others)
Ci  
Ci  


Gross Alpha
Total Ci


Ci  
Tritium Ci  


C-14
Gross Alpha Ci


Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-8 Table A-2.  Liquid EffluentsSummation of All Releases Summation of All Liquid Releases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Uncertainty
(%)
Fission and Activation Products (excluding tritium, gases, and gross alpha)
Ci  
Ci  


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-2
Average Concentration Ci/ml


Table A-1A - Gaseous EffluentsGround-Level ReleaseBatch Mode Fission and Activation Gases UNITS
% of Limit
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
%
Ar-41 Ci


Kr-85 Ci  
Tritium Ci  


Kr-85m Ci  
Average Concentration Ci/ml


Kr-87 Ci
% of Limit
%


Kr-88 Ci  
Dissolved and Entrained Gases Ci  


Xe-131m Ci  
Average Concentration Ci/ml


Xe-133 Ci
% of Limit
%


Xe-133m Ci  
Gross Alpha Ci  


Xe-135 Ci  
Average Concentration Ci/ml


Xe-135m Ci
Volume of Primary System Liquid Effluent (Before Dilution)
Liters


Xe-138 Ci
Dilution Water Used for Above Liters


(List Others)  
Volume of Secondary or Balance-of-Plant Liquid Effluent (e.g., low-activity or unprocessed)  
Ci
(Before Dilution)
Liters


Total Ci
Dilution Water Used for Above Liters


Iodines/  
Average Stream Flow m3/s
Halogens UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
I-131 Ci


I-132 Ci  
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-9 Table A-2A.  Liquid EffluentsBatch Mode Fission and Activation Products Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Cr-51 Ci  


I-133 Ci  
Mn-54 Ci  


I-134 Ci  
Fe-55 Ci  


I-135 Ci  
Fe-59 Ci  


Total Ci  
Co-57 Ci  


Particulates UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Co-58 Ci  
Co-58 Ci  


Line 2,218: Line 2,159:
Ci  
Ci  


Cs-134 Ci  
Nb-95 Ci  


(List Others)
Ag-110m Ci
Ci  
 
Sn-113 Ci
 
Sb-124 Ci
 
Sb-125 Ci
 
I-131 Ci  


Total Ci  
I-133 Ci  


Tritium Ci  
I-135 Ci  


Gross Alpha Ci  
Cs-134 Ci  


C-14 Ci  
Cs-137 Ci  


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-3
(List Others)
Ci


Table A-1B - Gaseous EffluentsGround-Level ReleaseContinuous Mode Fission and Activation Gases UNITS
Totals Ci  
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Ar-41 Ci  


Kr-85 Ci  
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-10
Table A-2A.  Liquid EffluentsBatch Mode (continued)
Dissolved and Entrained Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Kr-85 Ci  


Kr-85m Ci  
Kr-85m Ci  
Kr-87 Ci


Kr-88 Ci  
Kr-88 Ci  
Line 2,255: Line 2,202:
Xe-135m Ci  
Xe-135m Ci  


Xe-138 Ci
(List Others)
 
(List Others)  
Ci  
Ci  


Total Ci  
Totals Ci  


Iodines/
Tritium Ci
Halogens UNITS
 
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Gross Alpha Ci  
I-131 Ci  


I-132 Ci  
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-11 Table A-2B.  Liquid EffluentsContinuous Mode Fission and Activation Products Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Cr-51 Ci  


I-133 Ci  
Mn-54 Ci  


I-134 Ci  
Fe-55 Ci  


I-135 Ci  
Fe-59 Ci  


Total Ci  
Co-57 Ci  


Particulates UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Co-58 Ci  
Co-58 Ci  


Line 2,289: Line 2,231:
Ci  
Ci  


Cs-134 Ci  
Nb-95 Ci  


(List Others)
Ag-110m Ci  
Ci  


Total Ci  
Sn-113 Ci  


Tritium Ci  
Sb-124 Ci  


Gross Alpha Ci  
Sb-125 Ci  


C-14 Ci  
I-131 Ci  


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-4
I-133 Ci


Table A-1C - Gaseous EffluentsElevated ReleaseBatch Mode Fission and Activation Gases UNITS
I-135 Ci  
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Ar-41 Ci  


Kr-85 Ci  
Cs-134 Ci
 
Cs-137 Ci
 
(List Others)
Ci
 
Totals Ci
 
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-12 Table A-2B.  Liquid EffluentsContinuous Mode (continued)
Dissolved and Entrained Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Kr-85 Ci  


Kr-85m Ci  
Kr-85m Ci  
Kr-87 Ci


Kr-88 Ci  
Kr-88 Ci  
Line 2,325: Line 2,272:


Xe-135m Ci  
Xe-135m Ci  
Xe-138 Ci


(List Others)  
(List Others)  
Ci  
Ci  


Total Ci  
Totals Ci  


Iodines/
Tritium Ci  
Halogens UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
I-131 Ci  


I-132 Ci
Gross Alpha Ci  
 
I-133 Ci
 
I-134 Ci
 
I-135 Ci
 
Total Ci
 
Particulates UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Co-58 Ci
 
Co-60
Ci
 
Sr-89 Ci
 
Sr-90
Ci
 
Cs-134 Ci
 
(List Others) 
Ci
 
Total Ci
 
Tritium Ci
 
Gross Alpha Ci
 
C-14 Ci
 
RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-5
 
Table A-1D - Gaseous EffluentsElevated ReleaseContinuous Mode Fission and Activation Gases UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Ar-41 Ci
 
Kr-85 Ci
 
Kr-85m Ci
 
Kr-87 Ci
 
Kr-88 Ci
 
Xe-131m Ci
 
Xe-133 Ci
 
Xe-133m Ci
 
Xe-135 Ci
 
Xe-135m Ci
 
Xe-138 Ci
 
(List Others)
Ci
 
Total Ci
 
Iodines/
Halogens UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
I-131 Ci
 
I-132 Ci
 
I-133 Ci
 
I-134 Ci
 
I-135 Ci
 
Total Ci
 
Particulates UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Co-58 Ci
 
Co-60
Ci
 
Sr-89 Ci
 
Sr-90
Ci
 
Cs-134 Ci
 
(List Others)
Ci
 
Total Ci
 
Tritium Ci
 
Gross Alpha Ci
 
C-14 Ci
 
RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-6
 
Table A-1E - Gaseous EffluentsMixed Mode ReleaseBatch Mode Fission and Activation Gases UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Ar-41 Ci
 
Kr-85 Ci
 
Kr-85m Ci
 
Kr-87 Ci
 
Kr-88 Ci
 
Xe-131m Ci
 
Xe-133 Ci
 
Xe-133m Ci
 
Xe-135 Ci
 
Xe-135m Ci
 
Xe-138 Ci
 
(List Others)
Ci
 
Total Ci
 
Iodines/
Halogens UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
I-131 Ci
 
I-132 Ci
 
I-133 Ci
 
I-134 Ci
 
I-135 Ci
 
Total Ci
 
Particulates UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Co-58 Ci
 
Co-60
Ci
 
Sr-89 Ci
 
Sr-90
Ci
 
Cs-134 Ci
 
(List Others)
Ci
 
Total Ci
 
Tritium Ci
 
Gross Alpha Ci
 
C-14 Ci
 
RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-7
 
Table A-1F - Gaseous EffluentsMixed Mode ReleaseContinuous Mode Fission and Activation Gases UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Ar-41 Ci
 
Kr-85 Ci
 
Kr-85m Ci
 
Kr-87 Ci
 
Kr-88 Ci
 
Xe-131m Ci
 
Xe-133 Ci
 
Xe-133m Ci
 
Xe-135 Ci
 
Xe-135m Ci
 
Xe-138 Ci
 
(List Others)
Ci
 
Total Ci
 
Iodines/
Halogens UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
I-131 Ci
 
I-132 Ci
 
I-133 Ci
 
I-134 Ci
 
I-135 Ci
 
Total Ci
 
Particulates UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Co-58 Ci
 
Co-60
Ci
 
Sr-89 Ci
 
Sr-90
Ci
 
Cs-134 Ci
 
(List Others)
Ci
 
Total Ci
 
Tritium Ci
 
Gross Alpha Ci
 
C-14 Ci
 
RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-8
 
Table A-2 - Liquid EffluentsSummation of All Releases
 
SUMMATION OF
ALL LIQUID
RELEASES 
UNITS
 
QUARTER
1 QUARTER
2 QUARTER
3 QUARTER
4 TOTAL
 
UNCERTAINTY
(%)
Fission and Activation Products (excluding tritium, noble gases and gross alpha)
Ci
 
Tritium Ci
 
Dissolved and Entrained Gases Ci
 
Gross Alpha Ci
 
Volume of Primary System Liquid Effluent (before dilution)
Liters
 
Dilution Water Used for Above Liters
 
Volume of Secondary or Balance-of-Plant Liquid Effluent (e.g., low-activity or unprocessed)
(before dilution)
Liters
 
Quarterly Dilution Water Used for Above Liters
 
Average Stream Flow m3/s
 
RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-9
 
Table A-2A - Liquid EffluentsBatch Mode Fission and Activation Products UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Cr-51 Ci
 
Mn-54 Ci
 
Fe-55 Ci
 
Fe-59 Ci
 
Co-57 Ci
 
Co-58 Ci
 
Co-60
Ci
 
Sr-89 Ci
 
Sr-90
Ci
 
Nb-95 Ci
 
Ag-110m Ci
 
Sn-113 Ci
 
Sb-124 Ci
 
Sb-125 Ci
 
I-131 Ci
 
I-133 Ci
 
I-135 Ci
 
Cs-134 Ci
 
Cs-137 Ci
 
(List Others)
Ci
 
Total Ci
 
RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-10
 
Table A-2A - Liquid EffluentsBatch Mode (continued)
Dissolved and Entrained Gases UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Kr-85 Ci
 
Kr-85m Ci
 
Kr-88 Ci
 
Xe-131m Ci
 
Xe-133 Ci
 
Xe-133m Ci
 
Xe-135 Ci
 
Xe-135m Ci
 
(List Others) 
Ci
 
Total Ci
 
Tritium Ci
 
Gross Alpha Ci
 
RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-11
 
Table A-2B - Liquid EffluentsContinuous Mode Fission and Activation Products UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Cr-51 Ci
 
Mn-54 Ci
 
Fe-55 Ci
 
Fe-59 Ci
 
Co-57 Ci
 
Co-58 Ci
 
Co-60
Ci
 
Sr-89 Ci
 
Sr-90
Ci
 
Nb-95 Ci
 
Ag-110m Ci
 
Sn-113 Ci
 
Sb-124 Ci
 
Sb-125 Ci
 
I-131 Ci  


I-133 Ci
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-13 Table A-3.  Low-Level Waste Resins, Filters, and Evaporator Bottoms Volume Curies Shipped Waste Class ft3 m3 Curies A 


I-135 Ci


Cs-134 Ci


Cs-137 Ci
ALL


(List Others)
Major Nuclides for the Above Table:
Ci


Total Ci
Dry Active Waste Volume Curies Shipped Waste Class ft3 m3


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-12
A


Table A-2B - Liquid EffluentsContinuous Mode (continued)
Dissolved and Entrained Gases UNITS
QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 TOTAL
Kr-85 Ci


Kr-85m Ci


Kr-88 Ci
ALL


Xe-131m Ci
Major Nuclides for the Above Table:


Xe-133 Ci
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-14 Table A-3.  Low-Level Waste (continued)
Irradiated Components Volume Curies Shipped Waste Class ft3 m3


Xe-133m Ci


Xe-135 Ci


Xe-135m Ci


(List Others)
ALL
Ci


Total Ci
Major Nuclides for the Above Table:


Tritium Ci
Other Waste Volume Curies Shipped WASTE
CLASS
ft3 m3


Gross Alpha Ci


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-13


Table A-3 - Solid Waste and Irradiated Fuel Shipments


A.  SOLID RADIOACTIVE WASTE SHIPPED FROM THE UNIT (not irradiated fuel)
ALL


TYPE OF WASTE
Major Nuclides for the Above Table:
NUMBER OF
SHIPMENTS
VOLUME
(m3)
ACTIVITY OF
MAJOR NUCLIDES
(Ci)
Wet radioactive waste (e.g., spent resins, filters, sludges, etc.)


Dry radioactive waste (e.g., trash, paper, discarded protective clothing, etc.)  
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-15 Table A-3. Low-Level Waste (continued)  
Sum of All Low-Level Waste Shipped from Site Volume Curies Shipped Waste Class ft3 m3


Activated or contaminated metal or equipment, etc.)


Other radioactive waste (e.g., bulk waste, soil, rubble, etc., not excepted per Section 6 of this RG.)


B. IRRADIATED FUEL SHIPMENTS (Disposition)
C  


Number of Shipments              Mode of Transportation              Destination
ALL


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-14
Major Nuclides for the Above Table:


Table A-4 - Dose Limits17, per Technical Specifications (based on fractions of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I)
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-16


17 Doses based on quarterly and annual limits, on a per reactor basis.
Table A-4.  Dose Assessments, 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I


QUARTER 1 QUARTER 2 QUARTER 3 QUARTER 4 YEARLY
Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Yearly Liquid Effluent Dose Limit, Total Body  
Liquid Effluent Dose Limit, Total Body  
1.5 mrem  
1.5 mrem  
1.5 mrem  
1.5 mrem  
1.5 mrem  
1.5 mrem  
Line 2,824: Line 2,355:
3 mrem Total Body Dose  
3 mrem Total Body Dose  


% of Dose Limit  
% of Limit  


Liquid Effluent Dose Limit, Any Organ  
Liquid Effluent Dose Limit, Any Organ  
Line 2,833: Line 2,364:
10 mrem Organ Dose  
10 mrem Organ Dose  


% of Dose Limit  
% of Limit  


Gaseous Effluent Dose Limit, Gamma Air  
Gaseous Effluent Dose Limit, Gamma Air  
Line 2,842: Line 2,373:
10 mrad Gamma Air Dose  
10 mrad Gamma Air Dose  


% of Dose Limit  
% of Limit  


Gaseous Effluent Dose Limit, Beta Air  
Gaseous Effluent Dose Limit, Beta Air  
Line 2,851: Line 2,382:
20 mrad Beta Air Dose  
20 mrad Beta Air Dose  


% of Dose Limit  
% of Limit  


Gaseous Effluent Organ Dose Limit (iodine, tritium, particulates with >8-day half-life)  
Gaseous Effluent Dose Limit, Any Organ (Iodine, Tritium, Particulates with >8-day half-life)  
7.5 mrem  
7.5 mrem  
7.5 mrem  
7.5 mrem  
7.5 mrem  
7.5 mrem  
7.5 mrem  
7.5 mrem  
15 mrem Gaseous Effluent Organ Dose (iodine, tritium, particulates with > 8-day half-life)  
15 mrem Gaseous Effluent Organ Dose (Iodine, Tritium, Particulates with > 8-Day half-life)  


% of Dose Limit  
% of Limit  


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-15
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-17 Table A-5.  EPA 40 CFR Part 190 Individual in the Unrestricted Area


Table A-5 - EPA 40 CFR Part 190 Dose Limits18 to an Individual in the Unrestricted Area
Whole Body Thyroid Any other organ Dose Limit  
 
WHOLE BODY
THYROID
ANY OTHER ORGAN
Dose Limit  
25 mrem  
25 mrem  
75 mrem  
75 mrem  
25 mrem Dose19
25 mrem Dose  
 
% of Dose Limit
 
18 On a uranium fuel cycle basis (e.g., all reactors).
 
19 Dose from current year effluent discharges, current year direct radiation, and prior year effluents (if environmental
 
reporting levels are exceeded).


RG 1.21, Rev. 3, Appendix A, Page A-16
% of Limit


Table A-6.  Supplemental Information  
Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-18 Table A-6.  Supplemental Information  


1.
1.
Line 2,892: Line 2,410:
2.
2.


Nonroutine, Planned Discharges (e.g., pumping of leaks and spills for remediation, results of groundwater monitoring to quantify effluent releases to the offsite environment)  
Non routine, Planned Discharges (e.g., pumping of leaks and spills for remediation, results of ground water monitoring to quantify effluent releases to the offsite environment)  


3.
3.
Line 2,900: Line 2,418:
4.
4.


Annual Land Use Census Changes  
Annual Land-Use Census Changes  


5.
5.
Line 2,908: Line 2,426:
6.
6.


ODCM Changes   
Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Changes   


7.
7.
Line 2,920: Line 2,438:
9.
9.


Other (narrative description of other information that is provided to the NRC, such as in the ARERR or ISFSI reports)}}
Other (narrative description of other information that is provided to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, e.g., the ARERR for ISFSIs)}}


{{RG-Nav}}
{{RG-Nav}}

Revision as of 12:14, 14 January 2025

Measuring, Evaluating, and Reporting Radioactive Materials in Liquid and Gaseous Effluents and Solid Waste
ML091170109
Person / Time
Issue date: 06/30/2009
From:
Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research
To:
O'Donnell, Edward, RES/RGB
Shared Package
ML091170100 List:
References
DG-1186 RG-1.021, Rev. 2
Download: ML091170109 (72)


U.S. NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION

June 2009

Revision 2

REGULATORY GUIDE

OFFICE OF NUCLEAR REGULATORY RESEARCH

The NRC issues regulatory guides to describe and make available to the public methods that the NRC staff considers acceptable for use in implementing specific parts of the agencys regulations, techniques that the staff uses in evaluating specific problems or postulated accidents, and data that the staff needs in reviewing applications for permits and licenses. Regulatory guides are not substitutes for regulations, and compliance with them is not required. Methods and solutions that differ from those set forth in regulatory guides will be deemed acceptable if they provide a basis for the findings required for the issuance or continuance of a permit or license by the Commission.

This guide was issued after consideration of comments received from the public.

Regulatory guides are issued in 10 broad divisions: 1, Power Reactors; 2, Research and Test Reactors; 3, Fuels and Materials Facilities; 4, Environmental and Siting; 5, Materials and Plant Protection; 6, Products; 7, Transportation; 8, Occupational Health;

9, Antitrust and Financial Review; and 10, General.

Electronic copies of this guide and other recently issued guides are available through the NRCs public Web site under the Regulatory Guides document collection of the NRCs Electronic Reading Room at http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc- collections/reg-guides/ and through the NRCs Agencywide Documents Access and Management System (ADAMS) at http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/adams.html, under Accession No. ML091170109

REGULATORY GUIDE 1.21 (Draft was issued as DG-1186, dated October 2008)

MEASURING, EVALUATING, AND REPORTING RADIOACTIVE

MATERIAL IN LIQUID AND GASEOUS EFFLUENTS AND

SOLID WASTE

A. INTRODUCTION

This guide describes methods the staff of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)

considers acceptable for use: (1) in measuring, evaluating, and reporting plant-related radioactivity (excluding background radiation) in effluents and solid radioactive waste shipments from NRC licensed facilities, (2) in assessing and reporting the public dose from facility operations, and (3) on complying with

40 CFR 190 in accordance with the requirements of 10 CFR 20.1301(e).

This guide incorporates the risk-informed principles of the Reactor Oversight Process. A risk- informed, performance-based approach to regulatory decision-making combines the risk-informed and performance-based elements discussed in the staff requirements memorandum on SECY-98-144, White Paper on Risk-Informed and Performance-Based Regulation, dated March 1, 1999 (Ref. 1).

The following regulations and design criteria establish the regulatory basis for the radiological effluent control program:

1.

Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR) Section 20.1501, Surveys (Ref. 2),

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 2

2.

10 CFR 50.36a, Technical Specifications on Effluents from Nuclear Power Reactors (Ref. 3),

3.

10 CFR 20.1302, Compliance with Dose Limits for Individual Members of the Public,

4.

10 CFR 72.44(d), License Conditions (Ref. 4),

5.

Section IV.B of Appendix I, Numerical Guides for Design Objectives and Limiting Conditions for Operation to Meet the Criterion As Low As Is Reasonably Achievable for Radioactive Material in Light-Water-Cooled Nuclear Power Reactor Effluents, to

10 CFR Part 50, Domestic Licensing of Production and Utilization Facilities.

6.

General Design Criterion 60, Control of releases of radioactive materials to the environment, of Appendix A, General Design Criteria for Nuclear Power Plants, to Title 10, Part 50, of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR Part 50), Domestic Licensing of Production and Utilization Facilities.

7.

General Design Criterion 64, Monitoring radioactivity releases, of Appendix A,

General Design Criteria for Nuclear Power Plants, to Title 10, Part 50, of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR Part 50), Domestic Licensing of Production and Utilization Facilities.

10 CFR 20.1501 requires surveys that may be necessary and are reasonable to evaluate the magnitude and extent of potential radiological hazards. In 10 CFR Part 20, Standards for Protection against Radiation, survey is defined as an evaluation of the radiological conditions and potential hazards related to radioactive material or other sources of radiation, including (1) a physical survey of the location of radioactive material and (2) measurements or calculations of levels of radiation or concentrations or quantities of radioactive material present. The design objectives set out in

10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, provide numerical guidance on limiting conditions for operation for light- water cooled nuclear power reactors to meet the requirement that radioactive materials in effluents discharged to unrestricted areas be kept as low as is reasonably achievable (ALARA).

10 CFR 50.36a requires establishing technical specifications with procedures and controls over effluents, including reporting (1) the quantity of each of the principal radionuclides discharged to unrestricted areas in liquid and gaseous effluents and (2) other information used to estimate the maximum potential annual radiation doses to the public from radioactive effluents.

In 10 CFR 20.1302, the NRC establishes requirements for surveys in the unrestricted and controlled areas and for radioactive materials in effluents discharged to unrestricted and controlled areas.

The purpose of these surveys is to demonstrate compliance with the dose limits of 10 CFR 20.1301, Dose Limits for Individual Members of the Public. Although 10 CFR 20.1302(b)(2) provides a second method of demonstrating compliance with dose limits for individual members of the public, nuclear power plant technical specifications essentially require use of 10 CFR 20.1302(b)(1) to determine the total effective dose equivalent to the individual likely to receive the highest dose. This requirement is based on actual, realistic exposure pathways to a real individual. (See also Regulatory Guide 1.109, Calculation of Annual Doses to Man from Routine Releases of Reactor Effluents for the Purpose of Demonstrating Compliance with 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I (Ref. 5) and Attachment 6 to SECY-03-0069, Results of the License Termination Rule Analysis, dated May 2, 2003 (Ref. 6)).

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 3 In 10 CFR 72.44(d), the NRC establishes environmental monitoring requirements for each facility holding a specific license under Part 72 authorizing receipt, handling, and storage of spent fuel, high-level radioactive waste, and/or reactor-related greater than class C waste. This regulatory guide describes a method for reporting these results.

The general design criteria, Criterion 60, specifies nuclear power units shall control liquid and gaseous effluents and handle solid waste for both normal and anticipated operational occurrences.

The general design criteria, Criterion 64, specifies that a means shall be provided for monitoring effluent discharge paths and the plant environs for radioactivity that may be released during both normal and anticipated operational occurrences.

The reports required under (1) Subpart M, Reports, of 10 CFR Part 20 (related to reports of exposures, radiation levels, and concentrations or radioactive material), (2) 10 CFR 50.72, Immediate Notification Requirements for Operating Power Reactors, and (3) 10 CFR 50.73, Licensee Event Report System, or other licensee requirements must be made in accordance with these applicable regulations. In addition, effluent discharges and radioactive material losses reported under those regulatory provisions should also be reported in the Annual Radioactive Effluent Release Report (ARERR) described in this regulatory guide.

This regulatory guide contains information collection requirements covered by 10 CFR Part 50

that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved under OMB control number 3150-0011. The NRC may neither conduct nor sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, an information collection request or requirement unless the requesting document displays a currently valid OMB control number.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 4 TABLE OF CONTENTS

A. INTRODUCTION

..................................................................................................................... 1

B. DISCUSSION

............................................................................................................................ 6

1. Regulatory Guidance .............................................................................................................. 6

2. Objectives of the Radiological Effluent Control Program ..................................................... 7

C. REGULATORY POSITION

..................................................................................................... 9

1. Effluent Monitoring ................................................................................................................ 9

1.1 Guidance for Effluent Monitoring .................................................................................... 9

1.2 Release Points for Effluent Monitoring ............................................................................ 9

1.3 Monitoring a Significant Release Point .......................................................................... 10

1.4 Monitoring a Less-Significant Release Point ................................................................. 10

1.5 Monitoring Leaks and Spills ........................................................................................... 11

1.6 Monitoring Continuous Releases .................................................................................... 13

1.7 Monitoring Batch Releases ............................................................................................. 14

1.8 Principal Radionuclides for Effluent Monitoring ........................................................... 14

1.9 Carbon-14 ....................................................................................................................... 15

1.10 Abnormal Releases ....................................................................................................... 16

2. Effluent Sampling ................................................................................................................. 17

2.1 Representative Sampling ................................................................................................ 17

2.2 Sampling Liquid Radioactive Waste .............................................................................. 18

2.3 Sampling Gaseous Radioactive Waste ........................................................................... 18

2.4 Sampling Bias ................................................................................................................. 18

2.5 Composite Sampling....................................................................................................... 19

2.6 Sample Preparation and Preservation ............................................................................. 19

2.7 Short-Lived Nuclides and Decay Corrections ................................................................ 19

3 Effluent Dispersion (Meteorology and Hydrology) ............................................................... 19

3.1 Meteorological Data ....................................................................................................... 19

3.2 Atmospheric Transport and Diffusion ............................................................................ 20

3.3 Release Height ................................................................................................................ 20

3.4 Aquatic Dispersion (Surface Waters) ............................................................................. 20

3.5 Spills and Leaks to the Ground Surface ......................................................................... 21

3.6 Spills and Leaks to Ground Water .................................................................................. 21

4. Quality Assurance ................................................................................................................. 23

4.1 Regulatory Guidance ...................................................................................................... 23

4.2 Quality Control Checks .................................................................................................. 24

4.3 Functional Checks .......................................................................................................... 24

4.4 Procedures ...................................................................................................................... 24

4.5 Calibration of Laboratory Equipment and Radiation Monitors ...................................... 24

4.6 Calibration of Measuring and Test Equipment ............................................................... 25

4.7 Calibration Frequency..................................................................................................... 25

4.8 Measurement Uncertainty ............................................................................................... 25

5. Dose Assessments for Members of the Public ..................................................................... 25

5.1 Bounding Dose Assessments .......................................................................................... 26

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 5

5.2 Members of the Public .................................................................................................... 27

5.3 Occupancy Factors .......................................................................................................... 27

5.4 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I ........................................................................................... 27

5.5 10 CFR 20.1301(a) through (c) ...................................................................................... 28

5.6 10 CFR 20.1301(e) ......................................................................................................... 28

5.7 Dose Assessments for 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I ....................................................... 29

5.8 Dose Assessments for 10 CFR 20.1301(e) ..................................................................... 30

5.9 Dose Calculations ........................................................................................................... 31

6. Solid Radioactive Waste Shipped for Processing or Disposal ............................................. 31

7. Reporting Errata in Effluent Release Reports ...................................................................... 32

7.1 Examples of Small Errors ............................................................................................... 32

7.2 Reporting Small Errors ................................................................................................... 32

7.3 Examples of Large Errors ............................................................................................... 33

7.4 Reporting Large Errors ................................................................................................... 33

8. Format and Content of the Annual Radioactive Effluent Release Report ............................ 33

8.1 Gaseous Effluent ............................................................................................................. 34

8.2 Liquid Effluents .............................................................................................................. 36

8.3 Solid Waste Storage and Shipments ............................................................................... 37

8.4 Dose Assessments ........................................................................................................... 37

8.5 Supplemental Information .............................................................................................. 38

D. IMPLEMENTATION

.............................................................................................................. 40

GLOSSARY .................................................................................................................................. 41 REFERENCES .............................................................................................................................. 50

BIBLIOGRAPHY .......................................................................................................................... 54 APPENDIX A - TABLES .......................................................................................................... A-1

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 6

B. DISCUSSION

1. Regulatory Guidance

Six basic documents contain the regulatory guidance for implementing the 10 CFR Part 20 and

10 CFR Part 50 regulatory requirements and plant technical specifications related to monitoring and reporting of radioactive material in effluents and environmental media, solid radioactive waste disposal, and the public dose that results from licensed operation of a nuclear power plant:

1.

Regulatory Guide 1.21, Measuring, Evaluating, and Reporting Radioactive Material in Liquid and Gaseous Effluents and Solid Waste,

2.

Regulatory Guide 4.1, Programs for Monitoring Radioactivity in the Environs of Nuclear Power Plants (Ref. 7),

3.

Regulatory Guide 4.15, Quality Assurance for Radiological Monitoring Programs (Inception Through Normal Operations to License Termination)Effluent Streams and the Environment (Ref. 8),

4.

NUREG-1301, Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Guidance: Standard Radiological Effluent Controls for Pressurized Water Reactors (Ref. 9),

5.

NUREG-1302, Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Guidance: Standard Radiological Effluent Controls for Boiling Water Reactors (Ref. 10), and

6.

Regulatory Guide 1.109, Calculation of Annual Doses to Man from Routine Releases of Reactor Effluents for the Purpose of Demonstrating Compliance with 10 CFR Part 50,

Appendix I.

These six documents, when used in an integrated manner, provide the basic guidance and implementation details for developing and maintaining effluent and environmental monitoring programs at nuclear power plants. The four regulatory guides specify the guidance for radiological monitoring and the assessment of dose, and the two NUREGs provide the specific implementation details for effluent and environmental monitoring programs.

Regulatory Guide 1.21 addresses the measuring, evaluating, and reporting of effluent releases, solid radioactive waste, and public dose from nuclear power plants. The guide describes the important concepts in planning and implementing an effluent and solid radioactive waste program. Concepts covered include meteorology, release points, monitoring methods, identification of principal radionuclides, unrestricted area boundaries, continuous and batch release methods, representative sampling, composite sampling, radioactivity measurements, decay corrections, quality assurance (QA), solid radioactive waste shipments, and public dose assessments.

Regulatory Guide 4.1 addresses the environmental monitoring program. The guide discusses principles and concepts important to environmental monitoring at nuclear power plants. The regulatory guide addresses the need for preoperational and background characterization of radioactivity. It also addresses environmental monitoring (both on-site and offsite), including the exposure pathways. The guide defines the exposure pathways, the program scope of sampling media and sampling frequency, and

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 7 the methods of comparing environmental measurements to effluent releases in the Annual Radiological Environmental Operating Report.

Regulatory Guide 4.15 provides the basic principles of QA in all types of radiological monitoring programs for effluent streams and the environment. The guide addresses all types of licenses including nuclear power plants. The guide provides the principles for structuring organizational lines of communication and responsibility, using qualified personnel, implementing standard operating procedures, defining data quality objectives (DQOs), performing quality control (QC) checking for sampling and analysis, auditing the process, and taking corrective actions.

NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 provide the detailed implementation guidance by describing effluent and environmental monitoring programs. The NUREGs specify effluent monitoring and environmental sampling requirements, surveillance requirements for effluent monitors, types of monitors and samplers, sampling and analysis frequencies, types of analysis and radionuclides analyzed, lower limits of detection (LLDs), specific environmental media to be sampled, and reporting and program evaluation and revision.

Regulatory Guide 1.109 provides the detailed implementation guidance for demonstrating that radioactive effluents conform to the As Low as is Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) design objectives of

10 CFR 50, Appendix I. The regulatory guide describes calculational models and parameters for estimating dose from effluent releases, including the dispersion of the effluent in the atmosphere and different water bodies.

Note: The dose to occupational workers, including contributions from activities associated with effluent programs (such as low-level waste processing, storage and shipping, as well as dose from handling resins and filters for gaseous and liquid radioactive waste) is occupational dose associated with the licensed operation and is not included in RG 1.21.

The NRC issues regulatory guides to describe to the public methods that the staff considers acceptable for use in implementing specific parts of the agencys regulations, to explain techniques that the staff uses in evaluating specific problems or postulated accidents, and to provide guidance to applicants.

Regulatory guides are not substitutes for regulations, and compliance with them is not required. The methods and practices outlined in regulatory guides are one acceptable method for implementing the regulations. Nuclear power reactor licensees may continue to use Revision 1 of Regulatory Guide 1.21, Measuring, Evaluating, and Reporting Radioactivity in Solid Waste and Releases of Radioactive Materials in Liquid and Gaseous Effluents from Light-water Cooled Nuclear Power Plants, issued June 1974, or may adopt other procedures or practices that provide for the measuring, evaluating, and reporting of radioactive material in liquid and gaseous effluents and solid waste.

2. Objectives of the Radiological Effluent Control Program

The requirements for the radiological effluent control program appear in 10 CFR Part 20 and the technical specifications which are part of a license, including limitations on dose conforming to

10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I. In addition, a facilitys technical specifications describe specific requirements. These regulatory requirements, in conjunction with the regulatory positions provided in this guide, can be used as a basis for establishing the radiological effluent control program. The radiological effluent control program for a nuclear power plant has the following six basic objectives:

1.

ensure that effluent instrumentation has the functional capability to measure and analyze

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 8 effluent discharges,

2.

ensure that effluent treatment systems are used to reduce effluent discharges to ALARA

levels,

3.

establish instantaneous release rate limitations on the concentrations of radioactive material,

4.

limit the annual and quarterly doses or dose commitment to members of the public in liquid and gaseous effluents to unrestricted areas,

5.

measure, evaluate, and report the quantities of radioactivity in gaseous effluents, liquid effluents, and solid radioactive waste, and

6.

evaluate the dose to members of the public.

The Annual Radioactive Effluent Release Report (ARERR), submitted before May 1 (unless a licensing basis exists for a different submittal date), and the Annual Radiological Environmental Operating Report (AREOR) submitted annually by May 15 (unless a licensing basis exists for a different submittal date), are used to demonstrate compliance with the facilitys technical specifications for the radioactive effluent control program. The reports demonstrate the following:

1.

effectiveness of effluent controls and measurement of the environmental impact of radioactive materials,

2.

compliance with the design objectives and limiting conditions for operation required to meet the ALARA criteria in Appendix I to 10 CFR Part 50,

3.

relationship between quantities of radioactive material discharged in effluents and resultant radiation dose to individuals,

4.

compliance with the radiation dose limits to members of the public established by the NRC and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and

5.

compliance with the effluent reporting requirements of 10 CFR 50.36a.

Licensees may also, if they choose to do so, use the format specified in this regulatory guide for

10 CFR 72.44(d) ISFSI effluent reports. However, the ISFSI effluent reporting requirement of

10 CFR 72.44(d) is not normally satisfied by inclusion as part of the Annual Radioactive Effluent Release Report (ARERR) since the reporting dates may conflict. If the dates are coincident, or can be met with a single report, licensees may use the ARERR to fulfill the 10 CFR 72.44(d) reporting requirements provided a copy is submitted as specified in 10 CFR 72.44(d)(3).

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 9

C. REGULATORY POSITION

1. Effluent Monitoring

1.1 Guidance for Effluent Monitoring

Monitoring programs should be established to identify and quantify principal radionuclides in effluents. NUREG-1301 (for pressurized-water reactors (PWRs)) and NUREG-1302 (for boiling-water reactors (BWRs)) specify the generic controls and surveillance requirements, including the frequency, duration, and methods of measurement. These NUREGs provide specifications for LLDs, requirements for batch releases and continuous releases, sampling frequencies, analysis frequencies and timelines, and composite sample requirements. Site-specific radiological effluent control programs may differ from the generic NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 guidance provided there is either a documented evaluation or justification for such deviations as part of an offsite dose calculation manual (ODCM) authorized change, or if submitted as part of the original ODCM in accordance with Generic Letter 89-01, Implementation of Programmatic and Procedural Controls for Radiological Effluent Technical Specifications, (Ref. 11)

dated January 31, 1989, and approved by the NRC.

1.2 Release Points for Effluent Monitoring

The ODCM should identify the facilitys significant release points (see glossary) used to quantify liquid and gaseous effluents discharged to the unrestricted area. For those release points containing contributions from two or more inputs (or systems), it is preferable to monitor each major input (or system)

individually to avoid dilution effects, which may impede or prevent radionuclide identification. NUREG-

1301 and NUREG-1302 contain detailed guidance for the content and format of a licensees ODCM. For purposes of effluent and direct radiation monitoring, the ODCM should list and/or describe the following:

1.

Significant release points include stacks, vents, and liquid radioactive waste discharge points, among others.

2.

Other release points should be listed in the ODCM if they are not normally classified as one of the significant release points but could become a significant release point based on expected operational occurrences (e.g., primary to secondary leakage for PWRs or failed fuel). This list does not need to be exhaustive or all-inclusive but instead should demonstrate that the licensee has reasonably anticipated expected operational occurrences and their effects on radioactive discharges. Examples may include main steam line safety valves, steam-driven feedwater pumps, turbine building sumps, containment ice condensers, leachate seepage from unlined ponds, or evaporative releases from ponds in the restricted or controlled areas.

3.

The site environs map should show the following:

a.

significant release points, b.

boundaries of the restricted area and the controlled area (per 10 CFR Part 20

definitions),

c.

boundary of the unrestricted area for liquid effluents (e.g., at the end of the pipe or entrance to a public waterway), and d.

boundary of the unrestricted area for gaseous effluents (e.g., the site boundary).

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 10

4.

Dose calculation methodologies should be described for exposure pathways and routes of exposure that are identified in Regulatory Guide 1.109, if applicable.

5.

Dose calculation methodologies for direct radiation should be described if necessary (e.g.,

when assessing direct radiation from the facility). The methodology should include background subtraction, or if appropriate, extrapolation of radiation measurements to points of interest (e.g., to the individual members of the public likely to receive the highest dose).

The unrestricted area may be defined separately for each of the following: (1) liquid effluents,

(2) gaseous effluents, and (3) if appropriate, for other radiological controls such as direct radiation.

1.3 Monitoring a Significant Release Point

A significant release point is any location, from which radioactive material is released, that contributes greater than 1 percent of the activity discharged from all the release points for a particular type of effluent considered. Regulatory Guide 1.109 lists the three types of effluent as (1) liquid effluents, (2)

noble gases discharged to the atmosphere, and (3) all other radionuclides discharged to the atmosphere.

The ODCM should list significant release points. Significant release points should be monitored in accordance with the ODCM. If a new significant release point is identified and is not listed in the ODCM, licensees should (1) establish an appropriate sampling interval (e.g., in site-specific procedures)

and (2) update the ODCM within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., yearly). Releases from a significant release point should be assessed based on an appropriate combination of actual sample analysis results, radiation monitor responses, flow rate indications, tank level indications, and system pressure indications as necessary to ensure that the amount of radioactive material released, and the corresponding doses, are not substantially underestimated (see 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, Section III, Implementation). If activity is detected when monitoring a significant release point, the radionuclides detected should be reported in the effluent totals (including those with half-lives less than 8 days) in the ARERR (i.e., in Table A-1 or Table A-2), provided that the amount discharged is significant to the three-digit exponential format required for the ARERR.

1.4 Monitoring a Less-Significant Release Point

NUREG-1301/1302 provides tables designating sampling and analysis frequencies for release points. Historically these tables together with the guidance from Revision 1 of RG 1.21 provided the sampling and analysis frequencies. Licensees may continue to use this guidance from NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 and Revision 1 of RG 1.21. This method of assigning sample frequencies is simple to implement, but in certain cases, it may entail an inappropriately large number of samples for less- significant release points which have no - or extremely low - impact on the parameters reported in the ARERR. As a result, for less-significant release points, licensees may evaluate and assign more appropriate sample frequencies. If a licensee wishes to deviate from the sample frequencies listed in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302, the licensees evaluation, showing that the effectiveness of the radioactive effluent control program is not reduced, should be maintained in site documentation.

Regardless of the surveillance frequencies, if activity is detected when monitoring a less-significant release point, the licensee must (per 10 CFR Part 50.36a and 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, Section III.A.1) report the cumulative activity in the effluent totals (i.e., in Table A-1 or Table A-2) in the ARERR (provided that the amount discharged is significant to the three-digit exponential format required for the ARERR).

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 11

Site documentation should identify less-significant release points, to the extent reasonable, but it is not necessary to list all possible release points in site documentation. Releases from a less-significant release point may be assessed (see section 5.1, Bounding Assessments) to the extent reasonable using assumptions and bounding calculations (in lieu of, or in addition to, sampling and analysis). When plant conditions change, and such changes may reasonably affect the status of a less-significant release point (e.g., significant change in primary-to-secondary leakage in PWRs or substantial cross-contamination between systems), sampling and analysis of the affected less-significant release points should be conducted. These sample results should be evaluated to (1) confirm the continued validity of the bounding calculations (if used) regarding effluent accountability and (2) determine the impact (if any) on effluent accountability. The guidance in this regulatory guide regarding monitoring less-significant release points for purposes of accountability (via the ARERR) does not replace, supersede, or otherwise modify any responsibility for monitoring systems normally not contaminated, as outlined in NRC Inspection and Enforcement (IE)Bulletin 80-10, Contamination of Nonradioactive System and Resulting Potential for Unmonitored, Uncontrolled Release of Radioactivity to Environment, dated May 6, 1980 (Ref. 12).

1.5 Monitoring Leaks and Spills

An area where an unplanned release occurred into the on-site environs (e.g., a leak or spill) should be identified as an impacted area for decommissioning purposes in accordance with NUREG-1757, Consolidated Decommissioning Guidance, issued September 2006 (Ref. 13). A leak or spill should be assessed to obtain the necessary information for the ARERR as specified in Regulatory Position 8.5.1, Abnormal Releases or Abnormal Discharges (see glossary). Leaks or spills to the ground will be diluted on contact with soil and water in the environment. Samples of the undiluted liquid (from the source of the leak or spill) and samples of the affected soil (or surface water or ground water) should be analyzed as soon as practical. In some instances, sampling, particularly soil sampling, may not be practical if the leak occurred in inaccessible areas, or if there are extenuating considerations. In this respect, ground water monitoring may be used as a surrogate for soil sampling. If sampling is not practical, the 10 CFR 50.75(g)

records should describe why sampling was not conducted (e.g., the area was inaccessible or there were safety considerations). The location and estimated volume of the leak or spill should be recorded to identify the extent of the impacted area and predicted size or extent of the contaminant plume. If a spill is promptly remediated (e.g., within 48 hours5.555556e-4 days <br />0.0133 hours <br />7.936508e-5 weeks <br />1.8264e-5 months <br />) and if subsequent surveys of the remediated area indicate no detectable residual radioactivity remaining in the soil or ground water (see paragraph below), then, for purposes of reporting discharges in the ARERR, there was no liquid discharge to the unrestricted area, and the spill need not be reported in the ARERR. However, the decommissioning file should be updated to include a description of the event as specified by 10 CFR 50.75(g). Licensees should review the decommissioning files before generating the ARERR to ensure that the ARERR includes the necessary information regarding leaks and spills.

When evaluating areas that have been remediated, the licensee should survey for residual radioactivity. There may be times when the licensee wants to verify that an area contains no residual radioactivity. There is existing regulatory guidance and information on analytical detection capabilities.

Licensees should ensure that surveys are appropriate and reasonable (as defined in 10 CFR 20.1501).

Licensees should generally ensure that surveys are conducted using the appropriate sensitivity levels (e.g., refer to the environmental LLDs in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302, Table 4.12-1, Detection Capabilities for Environmental Sample Analysis, or LLDs determined by using the methodology outlined in NUREG-1576, Multi-Agency Radiological Laboratory Analytical Protocols Manual, (MARLAP)

issued July 2004 (Ref. 14)). Additionally, licensees should apply plant-process-system knowledge when evaluating leaks and spills. For example, consider a hypothetical case of a leak in a condensate storage

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 12 tank. Assume that the tanks contents were analyzed 30 days before the leak and determined to contain

1.2x10-6 microcuries per milliliter (uCi/mL) of tritium (1,200 picocuries/liter (pCi/L)). Additionally, assume that historical records indicate that the tank contained detectable levels of tritium about 50 percent of the time, and that tritium concentrations never exceeded 2,000 pCi/L of tritium. In this example, the licensee discovers a leak in the tank and is able to fix the leak after 400 gallons (1,500 liters) of water leaked to the ground surface. The licensee confirms the presence of tritium by sampling the tank contents and/or the wetted soil. Based on those results, the licensee chooses to remediate the affected soil and excavates the affected soil and places the removed soil into suitable containers. The licensee then samples undisturbed soil from several locations within the excavated area and analyzes the soil for tritium. The licensee adjusts the analytical method and the analytical sensitivity to allow detection of (the equivalent of)

1,000 pCi/L of tritium in the water fraction. The licensee analyzes the soil (for gamma activity) and the water fraction of soil (for tritium activity) from the excavated area and detects no radionuclides. The licensee also confirms radioactive material did not reach the water table by verifying the excavated area is above the water table. The NRC would find this to be an acceptable method for the licensee to use in concluding that there is no detectable residual radioactivity from the spill listed in this example.

This regulatory guide provides guidance regarding information the licensees should provide in the ARERR. In that context, when leaks and spills of radioactive material are identified, prompt response and timely actions should be taken to the extent reasonable to (1) evaluate radiological conditions and

(2) ensure proper reporting of materials discharged off site. To realize these two goals, it may be necessary to isolate the leak or spill at the source, prevent the spread of the leak or spill, and remediate the affected area (if the licensee deems remediation to be reasonable and necessary). For leaks and spills involving the discharge of radioactive material to the unrestricted area, the dose to members of the public from the leak or spill should be evaluated using realistic or bounding exposure scenarios. (See Attachment 6 to SECY-

03-0069 for more information on use of realistic scenarios.) However, for leaks or spills that occur on site, a realistic dose assessment to an offsite member of the public may become complicated especially if (1) no radioactive material has entered the unrestricted area and (2) there are no members of the public on site.

For leaks and spills, licensees should perform surveys that are reasonable to evaluate the potential radiological hazard (as described in 10 CFR 20.1501). As a result, for leaks and spills, licensees may choose to use bounding assessments to estimate the potential hazard. For example, if a leak occurs on site and radioactive material is released at or below the ground surface, the licensee may choose to assess the potential hazard by assuming that a conservatively large (e.g., bounding) volume of water is part of an assumed exposure pathway (e.g., drinking water). Such assumptions would allow the licensee to assess the potential hazard to a hypothetical individual member of the public. A hazard assessment of this sort would be appropriate for inclusion in the supplemental information section of the ARERR. In such cases where there is no real exposure pathway to a member of the public, the licensee should indicate that the hazard assessment is a bounding estimate of the dose to a hypothetical individual member of the public and no actual exposure was received by a real individual member of the public.

If licensees choose to notify local authorities of spills or leaks (e.g., because of local ordinances or local and State government agreements), the licensee should review the reporting requirements of

10 CFR 50.72(b)(xi) and information in NUREG-1022, Event Reporting Guidelines 10 CFR 50.72 and

50.73, (Ref. 15), for applicability. In such situations, licensees should ensure effective communication using the guidance provided in NUREG/BR-0308, Effective Risk Communication, (Ref. 16), especially with respect to ensuring that the risk is described in the appropriate context. In general, licensees should notify the NRC when significant public concern is raised, in accordance with 10 CFR 50.72(b)(xi).

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 13 Although the licensee may choose to use its problem identification and resolution program (corrective action program) to document the evaluation of the spill or leak, appropriate documentation should be placed in, or cross-referenced to, the decommissioning files as required by 10 CFR 50.75(g).

Remediation should be evaluated and implemented as appropriate based on licensee evaluations and decision-making. Evaluation factors should include (1) the location and accessibility, (2) the concentrations of radionuclides and extent of the residual radioactivity, (3) the efficacy of monitored natural attenuation, (4) the volume of the release, (5) the mobility of the radionuclides, (6) the depth of the water table and (7) whether significant residual radioactivity (see glossary) is expected at the time of decommissioning. Since the contaminants, concentrations, and extent of contamination are expected to vary over time or plant life (either increase based on anticipated future leaks and spills or decrease based on remediation or monitored natural attenuation), no one set of numerical values defines significant residual radioactivity. However, licensees may make remediation decisions based on their expectations of being able to meet the decommissioning criteria of 10 CFR 20.1402, Radiological Criteria for Unrestricted Use, at the anticipated time of decommissioning.

Information that may be useful in this decision-making includes (1) NUREG-1757, Volume 1, Appendix H, Memorandum of Understanding between the Environmental Protection Agency and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, (2) NUREG-1757, Volume 2, Derived Concentration Guideline Levels in Table H.1, and (3) the derived concentration guideline levels that have been authorized for decommissioned nuclear power plants. For a more detailed analysis, licensees may use the RESRAD

computer codes available from Argonne National Laboratory (Refs. 17, 18, and 19) or equivalent.

1.6 Monitoring Continuous Releases

For continuous releases, gross radioactivity measurements are often the only practical means of continuous monitoring. These gross radioactivity measurements are typically used to actuate alarms and terminate (trip) effluent releases, but by themselves, are generally not acceptable for demonstrating compliance with effluent discharge limits.

The use of continuously indicating radiation monitoring system results may be combined with sample analyses to more fully characterize and quantify a discharge. This technique may have particular applicability when (1) a short-term, rapid upscale indication of a process radiation monitor occurs during a release or (2) when there is a desire to verify whether a preliminary grab sample is representative. In these instances the radiation monitor responses (i.e., the radiation monitor efficiencies) for various radionuclides should be well characterized.

Grab samples should be collected at scheduled frequencies (see NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 or as approved in Generic Letter 89-01 submittals) to quantify specific radionuclide concentrations and release rates. The frequency of sample collection and radionuclide analyses should be based on the degree of variance in (1) the magnitude of the discharge and (2) the relative radionuclide composition from an established norm. Where the magnitude of the discharge and the relative nuclide composition of a continuous release vary significantly over the course of the discharge period, a combination of grab samples and continuous monitor readings can assist in accurately estimating the discharge. Continuous monitoring data (e.g., chart recorder data), as well as grab sample data, should be reviewed periodically and used to identify this variance from the established norm. Periodic evaluations should be made between gross radioactivity measurements and grab sample analyses of specific radionuclides. These evaluations should be used to verify (or modify) the conversion factors that correlate radiation monitor readings and concentrations of radionuclides in effluents.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 14

1.7 Monitoring Batch Releases

For batch releases, measurements should be performed to identify principal radionuclides before a release. In those cases in which an analysis of specific hard-to-detect radionuclides (such as strontium-

89/90 and iron-55 in liquid releases) cannot be done before release (see NUREG-1301 and NUREG-

1302), representative samples should be collected for the purpose of subsequent composite analysis. The composite samples should be analyzed at the scheduled frequencies specified in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 or, for less-significant release points, at the frequencies specified by the licensee. (See Regulatory Position 1.4.)

The use of continuously indicating radiation monitoring system results may be combined with sample analyses to more fully characterize and quantify a discharge. This technique may have particular applicability when (1) a short-term, rapid upscale indication of a process radiation monitor occurs during a discharge or (2) when there is a desire to verify whether a preliminary grab sample is representative. In these instances the radiation monitor responses (i.e., the radiation monitor efficiencies) for various radionuclides should be well characterized.

1.8 Principal Radionuclides for Effluent Monitoring

During analysis of samples, licensees should apply the appropriate analytical sensitivities to ensure adequate surveys are conducted. NUREG-1301/1302 provides a list of principal gamma emitters for which an LLD control applies. Historically, this list together with the guidance from Revision 1 of RG

1.21 provided the appropriate sensitivity levels for an analysis. Licensees may continue to use this guidance, which essentially classifies all radionuclides as principal radionuclides, and apply the analytical sensitivity levels (e.g., LLDs) directly from NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 and Revision 1 of RG 1.21.

This method is simple to implement, but in certain cases, it may entail inappropriately long count times or it may involve alternate (or unnecessary) methods of analysis for low-activity radionuclides with no - or extremely low - dose significance.

Although the LLD list from NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 may be used for determination of principal radionuclides, in reality, the principal radionuclides at a site will be dependent on site-specific factors such as (1) the amount of failed fuel, (2) the extent of system leakage, (3) the sophistication of radioactive waste processing equipment, and (4) the level of expertise in operating radioactive waste processing system.

Since the principal radionuclides will vary from site to site, licensees who wish to deviate from the historical method of determining principal radionuclides (as described above) may adopt a risk-informed approach to identify principal radionuclides (and the associated sensitivity levels) at a site.

This regulatory guide introduces the term principal radionuclide in a risk-informed context. A

licensee may evaluate the list of principal radionuclides for use at a particular site. The principal radionuclides may be determined based on their relative contribution to (1) the public dose compared to the 10 CFR 50 Appendix design objectives or (2) the amount of activity discharged compared to other site radionuclides. Under this concept, radionuclides that have either a significant activity or a significant dose contribution should be monitored in accordance with a predetermined and appropriate analytical sensitivity level (LLD) outlined in a licensees ODCM. This implementation of primary radionuclides ensures both

(1) radionuclides that are present in relatively large amounts but that contribute very little to dose, and (2)

radionuclides that are present in very small amounts but that have a relatively high contribution to dose are appropriately included in the ARERR.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 15 NOTE: With respect to principal radionuclides, dose is the measure of risk whereas activity is not. For example, a relatively large amount of tritium released into a large body of water has little dose significance.

If adopting a risk-informed perspective, a radionuclide is considered a principal radionuclide if it contributes either (1) greater than 1 percent of the 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, design objective dose for all radionuclides in the type of effluent being considered, or (2) greater than 1 percent of the activity of all radionuclides in the type of effluent being considered. Regulatory Guide 1.109 lists the three types of effluent as (1) liquid effluents, (2) noble gases released to the atmosphere, and (3) all other radionuclides released to the atmosphere. In this context, the term principal radionuclide has special significance with respect to the required sensitivity levels (e.g., LLDs) for an analysis. The LLDs specified in NUREG-

1301/1302 may be used, or LLDs may be determined based on the other methodologies (e.g., as outlined in MARLAP). Once principal radionuclides are identified, they should be monitored in accordance with the sensitivity levels (e.g., LLDs) listed in the ODCM.

For radionuclides that are not identified as principal radionuclides, licensee discretion may be applied to the sensitivity of analysis provided that there is no reduction in the effectiveness of the radioactive effluent control program. If analytical sensitivities are chosen that are different from those in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302, the basis for the deviations should be documented. For example, data quality objectives (DQOs) and other concepts from Regulatory Guide 4.15, Quality Assurance for Radiological Monitoring Programs (Inception through Normal Operations to License Terminations)

Effluent Streams and the Environment, Revision 2, issued July 2007 (Ref. 20), may be useful for determining risk-informed sensitivity levels for an analytical method.

If a risk-informed approach is used, principal radionuclides should be determined based on an evaluation over a time period that includes a refueling outage (e.g., one fuel cycle). A periodic reevaluation should be performed to determine whether the radionuclide mix has changed and/or to identify new principal radionuclides. If a risk-informed approach is applied to the determination of principal radionuclides, the ODCM becomes the controlling document and specifies the list of principal radionuclides. If adopting this method, the ODCM should be updated with the list of principal radionuclides within 1 year of their identification. Licensees are allowed to revise the ODCM in accordance with the ODCM change process as described in the plants technical specifications (which includes documented evaluations of such changes).

The concept of principal radionuclides does not reduce the requirement for reporting radionuclides detected in effluents. In addition to principal radionuclides, other radionuclides detected during routine monitoring of release points should be reported in the radioactive effluent release report and included in dose assessments to members of the public.

1.9 Carbon-14

Carbon-14 (C-14) is a naturally occurring isotope of carbon. Nuclear weapons testing in the 1950s and 1960s significantly increased the amount of C-14 in the atmosphere. C-14 is also produced in commercial nuclear reactors, but the amounts produced are much less than those produced naturally or from weapons testing. Since the NRC published Regulatory Guide 1.21, Revision 1, in 1974, the analytical methods for determining C-14 have improved. Coincidentally the radioactive effluents from commercial nuclear power plants over the same period have decreased to the point that C-14 is likely to be a principal radionuclide (as defined in this document) in gaseous effluents.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 16 C-14 releases in PWRs occur primarily as a mix of organic carbon and carbon dioxide released from the waste gas system. In BWRs, C-14 releases occur mainly as carbon dioxide in gaseous waste (Ref. 21). Because the dose contribution of C-14 from liquid radioactive waste is much less than that contributed by gaseous radioactive waste, evaluation of C-14 in liquid radioactive waste is not required.

Many documents provide information about the magnitude of C-14 in typical effluents from commercial nuclear power plants (e.g., Refs. 21, 22). Those documents suggest nominal annual releases of C-14 in gaseous effluents are approximately 5 to 7.3 curies from PWRs and between 8 to 9.5 curies from BWRs.

Licensees should evaluate whether C-14 is a principal radionuclide for gaseous releases from their facility.

10 CFR 50.36a requires that operating procedures be developed for the control of effluents and that quantities of principal radionuclides be reported. The quantity of C-14 discharged can be estimated by sample measurements or by use of a normalized C-14 source term and scaling factors based on power generation (see National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements Report No. 81, Carbon-14 in the Environment, issued January 1985 (Ref. 23)) or estimated by use of the GALE code from NUREG-

0017, Calculation of Releases of Radioactive Materials in Gaseous and Liquid Effluents from Pressurized Water Reactors PWR-GALE Code, April 1985 (Ref. 22). Because the production of C-14 is expected to be relatively constant at a particular site, if sampling is performed for C-14 (instead of estimating C-14 discharges based on calculations from a normalized source term), the sampling frequency may be adjusted to that interval that allows adequate measurement and reporting of effluents. If estimating C-14 based on scaling factors and fission rates, a precise and detailed evaluation of C-14 is not necessary. It is not necessary to calculate uncertainties for C-14 or to include C-14 uncertainty in any subsequent calculation of overall uncertainty.

1.10 Abnormal Releases and Abnormal Discharges

In the previous revision of the Regulatory Guide 1.21, the terms release and discharge were synonymous. This regulatory guide uses the term release to describe an effluent from the plant (regardless of where the effluent is deposited), whereas the term discharge is used only to describe an effluent that enters the unrestricted area. Although the term release includes effluents to either (1) the on-site environs or (2) the unrestricted area, for purposes of this regulatory guide, the use of the term release will generally be reserved for those instances when an effluent is released from the power plant into the on-site environs. The on-site environs in this context encompass locations outside of nuclear power plant systems, structures, and components as described in the final safety analysis report or ODCM.

This is a change in terminology with respect to the definition of abnormal release in Regulatory Guide 1.21, Revision 1, which defined abnormal releases to be from the site boundary.

An abnormal release (see glossary) is an unplanned or uncontrolled release of licensed radioactive material from the plant. Abnormal releases may be categorized as either batch or continuous depending on the circumstances. By contrast, an abnormal discharge (see glossary) is an unplanned or uncontrolled release of licensed radioactive material to the unrestricted area. Abnormal discharges may also be categorized as either batch or continuous depending on the circumstances. The distinction between the terms abnormal release and abnormal discharge is important for describing the staff position for measuring, evaluating, and reporting releases and discharges, especially where leaks and spills are involved.

That portion of an abnormal release that is discharged to the unrestricted area is reported as a abnormal discharge in the year in which the discharge occurred. The portion of an abnormal release that remains on site is considered residual radioactivity (see 10 CFR 20) and is documented in accordance with

10 CFR 50.75(g).

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 17

Low-level radioactive system leakage resulting from minor equipment failures and component aging (wear and tear) may be expected to occur as an anticipated part of the plant operation. If such leakage is captured by, or directed to, a system designed to accept and handle radioactive material including the subsequent planned and controlled discharge of the radioactive material (e.g., as described in the FSAR or ODCM), that evolution is not considered an abnormal release. Normal system leakage captured by effluent ventilation control systems or sumps is not an abnormal release (provided that, before discharge of the radioactive material, the discharge is planned and controlled). (See also the definitions of unplanned release and uncontrolled release in the glossary.)

In certain circumstances, some subjectivity may be associated with the definitions of unplanned release and uncontrolled release. In these situations, additional circumstances should be considered to determine if an abnormal release occurred. A well-designed and documented evaluation of a release point can include an evaluation of the potential for an unplanned or uncontrolled release. The evaluation can establish bounding criteria that establish a threshold for an abnormal release based on planning and control. Generally, releases that may reasonably be categorized as both unplanned and uncontrolled should be considered abnormal releases.

For example, consider an underground pipe that carries radioactive liquid to an outside storage tank. If this pipe develops a leak, and licensed radioactive material escapes into the surrounding soil, it is considered an abnormal release if some portion or all of the radioactive material remains on site. This type of leak should be reported as an abnormal release in the next ARERR. If the licensee predicts (e.g., based on site conceptual model and subsequent ground water monitoring results) that the radioactive material will enter the unrestricted area in 2 years, the resulting radioactive discharge (that would occur 2 years hence) will be considered an abnormal discharge. Therefore, the resulting radioactive discharge should be reported along with other data for the affected calendar year in a future ARERR (i.e., in this example,

3 years later). Both releases and discharges (either routine or abnormal) should be reported on a calendar- year basis for the year in which the release or discharge occurred.

Consider another example involving a volume of radioactive gas from the containment atmosphere that escapes the equipment hatch during a refueling outage (especially during the time interval when the containment purge exhaust fans are off). This would generally not be considered an abnormal discharge if

(1) the duration was preplanned (e.g., for a short duration such as 12 hours1.388889e-4 days <br />0.00333 hours <br />1.984127e-5 weeks <br />4.566e-6 months <br />), (2) the containment activity (gas, particulate, tritium, and iodine) was preplanned, known, and very low (e.g., such that a bounding estimate of the radioactive material discharged indicated there would be no measurable impact relative to typical discharges), (3) the containment activity was monitored (e.g., by sampling or radiation monitoring equipment), and (4) an evaluation was completed to identify a preplanned limiting (or trigger) level of activity that would initiate remedial or mitigating action (e.g., close the equipment hatch to control gases escaping containment). In this example, the actions taken (i.e., preplanning and monitoring) before and during the evolution are sufficient to establish control of this discharge. As a result, this type of evolution should not be categorized as an abnormal discharge.

2. Effluent Sampling

2.1 Representative Sampling

A typical schedule for radioactive effluent sample collection and analyses appears in NUREG-

1301 and NUREG-1302. Some licensees may have modified these sampling schedules (typically contained in the ODCM) as part of implementing Generic Letter 89-01 as approved by the NRC.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 18 Additional samples should be obtained as needed to characterize abnormal releases, abnormal discharges, or other significant operational evolutions. Samples should be representative of the overall effluent in the bulk stream, collection tank, or container. Representative samples should be obtained from well-mixed streams or volumes of effluent at sampling points by using proper equipment and sampling procedures.

2.2 Sampling Liquid Radioactive Waste

Before sampling, large volumes of liquid waste should be mixed to ensure that sediments or particulate solids are distributed uniformly in the waste mixture. For example, a large tank may be mixed using a sparger system or recirculated three or more volumes to ensure that a representative sample can be obtained, as recommended by American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D 3370-07, Standard Practices for Sampling Water from Closed Conduits (Ref. 24). If tank-mixing practices deviate from industry standards (i.e., those for recirculation or other), a technical evaluation or other justification should be provided. Sample points should be located where there is a minimum of disturbance of flow caused by fittings and other physical characteristics of the equipment and components. Sample nozzles should be inserted into the flow or liquid volume to ensure sampling of the bulk volume of pipes and tanks. Sample lines should be flushed for a sufficient period of time before sample extraction to remove sediment deposits and air and gas pockets. Generally, three line volumes should be purged (see ASTM D 3370-07)

before withdrawing a sample, unless a technical evaluation or other justification is provided. Periodically, a series of samples should be taken during the interval of discharge to determine whether any differences exist as a function of time and to ensure that individual samples are indeed representative of the effluent mixture. In some instances, this may be accomplished by collecting one or more samples (either by grab or composite sampler) during the discharge and comparing with one or more samples taken before the discharge. If a series of samples are collected, these samples can be used to assess the amount of measurement uncertainty in obtaining representative samples.

2.3 Sampling Gaseous Radioactive Waste

Although all licensees may not be committed to Regulatory Guide 4.15, American National Standards Institute (ANSI) N42.18-2004, Specification and Performance of On-Site Instrumentation for Continuously Monitoring Radioactivity in Effluents (Ref. 25), and ANSI/Health Physics Society (HPS) N13.1-1999, Sampling and Monitoring Releases of Airborne Radioactive Substances from the Stacks and Ducts of Nuclear Facilities (Ref. 26), the documents contain the general principles for designing and conducting monitoring programs for airborne effluents. The cited references also contain recommendations for obtaining valid samples of airborne radioactive material in effluents and the guidelines for sampling from ducts and stacks. Licensees should use the appropriate licensing documents to evaluate the validity of representative samples (e.g., evaluate the potential for inaccurate sampling of gaseous effluents that may bypass a particulate filter and collect on an iodine collection cartridge) and to identify any inaccurate sample analyses configurations or counting geometries.

2.4 Sampling Bias

Sampling and storage techniques that could bias quantitative results for effluent measurements should be evaluated and corrections applied as necessary. These biases include inaccurate measurement of sample volumes resulting from pressure drops in long sample lines and loss of particulates or iodine in sample lines resulting from deposition or plate-out. Samplers for gaseous waste should be evaluated for particulate deposition using ANSI N13.1-1999 (Ref. 26) or equivalent.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 19

2.5 Composite Sampling

Composite samples should be representative of the average quantities and concentrations of radioactive materials discharged in liquid and gaseous effluents. Composite samples should be collected in proportion to the effluent flow rate or in proportion to the volume of each batch of effluent discharges.

2.6 Sample Preparation and Preservation

Methods of sample preparation and/or sample storage should minimize the potential for loss of radioactive material (i.e., deposition of analyte on walls of the sample container or volatilization of analyte). Composite sample storage time should be as short as practical to preclude deposition on the storage container, or sample stabilization should be considered. Before quantitative radionuclide analyses for liquid effluent composites, samples should be mixed thoroughly so that the sample is representative of the material discharged.

Procedures should be instituted for handling, packaging, and storing samples to ensure that losses of radioactive materials or other factors causing sample deterioration do not invalidate the analysis. For example, filters should be stored carefully so as to prevent loss of radioactive material from the filter paper.

2.7 Short-Lived Radionuclides and Decay Corrections

In the analysis of short-lived radionuclides (e.g., short-lived noble gases), measurements should generally be made as soon as practical after collection to minimize loss by radioactive decay. In other cases, when needed to improve the detection of the longer-lived radionuclides, time should be allowed for the decay of short-lived, interfering radionuclides.

Some special considerations may be applicable in those instances where short-lived radionuclides are being measured. In general, sample collection (or analysis frequencies) should take into account the half-lives of the radionuclides being measured. This may have special applicability for continuous samples or composite samples. It is generally best to select a compositing interval (and analysis frequency)

appropriate for the effluent (radionuclide) being analyzed. In cases where the compositing interval is selected appropriately, analytical bias is minimized. One way to avoid analytical bias is to decrease the composite sampling interval (and analysis frequency).

To minimize bias in measurements, it may be necessary to decay correct analysis results for short-lived radionuclides. Licensees should be cognizant of those situations in which analytical bias may be introduced when analyzing short-lived radionuclides and should select appropriate methods to minimize such bias.

3 Effluent Dispersion (Meteorology and Hydrology)

3.1 Meteorological Data

Gaseous effluents discharged into the atmosphere are transported and diluted as a function of

(1) the atmospheric conditions in the local environment, (2) the topography of the region, and (3) the characteristics of the effluents. Licensees should consider the guidance in Regulatory Guide 1.23, Meteorological Monitoring Programs for Nuclear Power Plants (Ref. 27), in the development and implementation of site programs designed to collect site-specific meteorological data. The meteorological data do not need to be reported in the ARERR, but the data should be summarized and maintained as

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 20

documentation (records). An annual meteorological summary report that provides the joint frequency distributions of wind direction and wind speed by atmospheric stability class (see Regulatory Guide 1.23)

should be prepared and maintained on site for the life of the plant. In addition, hourly meteorological data should be recorded and available if needed for assessing abnormal gaseous releases.

3.2 Atmospheric Transport and Diffusion

Site-specific meteorological data collected should be analyzed and used to generate gaseous effluent dispersion factors (/Q) and deposition factors (D/Q) in accordance with Regulatory Guide 1.111, Methods for Estimating Atmospheric Transport and Dispersion of Gaseous Effluents in Routine Releases from Light-Water-Cooled Reactors (Ref. 28). The use of annual average meteorological conditions to determine /Q and D/Q is appropriate for continuous releases and for establishing instantaneous release set points (see NUREG-0133, Preparation of Radiological Effluent Technical Specifications for Nuclear Power Plants, issued October 1978 (Ref. 29)). This practice may also be acceptable for calculating doses from intermittent releases if the releases occur randomly and with sufficient frequency to justify the use of annual average meteorological conditions (see Regulatory Guide 1.111). When calculating long-term, annual average frequency distributions, 5 (or more) years of data should be used. If long-term, annual average /Q and D/Q values are used in determining dose to individual members of the public, the values should be revalidated or updated periodically (e.g., every 3 to 5 years). If the evaluation indicates the long- term, annual average /Q and D/Q are nonconservative by 10 percent or more, either revise the affected values or document the reason why such changes are not deemed necessary.

3.3 Release Height

The release height affects the transport and dispersion of radioactive materials especially with respect to downwash and building wake effects. For facilities with both ground-level and elevated releases, an evaluation should be made to determine the proper location of the maximum exposed individual member of the public. From a dispersion perspective, when determining the maximum exposure location (submersion and/or deposition), the evaluation should consider the magnitude of release originating as an elevated release and the magnitude of release originating as a ground-level release. For example, a close-in, downwind location in one sector may have a higher /Q (i.e., less dispersion) for a ground-level release; however, the majority of the source term may be originating as an elevated release, causing a higher concentration () at a more distant location, possibly in a different sector. See Regulatory Guide 1.111 for a more complete discussion of release height.

3.4 Aquatic Dispersion (Surface Waters)

Liquid radioactive effluents may be disposed in accordance with 10 CFR 20.2001, General Requirements, into a variety of receiving surface water bodies, including non-tidal rivers, lakes, reservoirs, settling ponds, cooling ponds, estuaries, and open coastal waters. This effluent is dispersed by various mechanisms (i.e., turbulent mixing, stream flow in the water bodies, and internal circulation or flow-through in lakes, reservoirs, and cooling ponds). Parameters influencing the dispersion patterns and concentrations near a site include the direction and speed of flow of currents, both natural and plant- induced, in the receiving water; the intensity of turbulent mixing; the size, geometry, and bottom topography of the receiving water; the location of effluent discharge in relation to the receiving water surface and shoreline; the amount of recirculation of previously discharged effluent; the characteristics of suspended and bottom sediments; and sediment sorption properties. Regulatory Guide 1.113, Estimating Aquatic Dispersion of Effluents from Accidental and Routine Releases for the Purpose of Implementing Appendix I (Ref. 30), describes calculational models for estimating aquatic dispersion to surface water

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 21 bodies. However, the dispersion characteristics may be highly site dependent and local characteristics should be considered when performing dispersion modeling and dose assessments.

3.5 Spills and Leaks to the Ground Surface

Liquid releases onto the land surface are transported and diluted as a function of site-specific hydrologic features, events, and processes and properties of the effluent. The releases may temporarily accumulate, pool, or runoff to natural and/or engineered drainage systems. During this process, water may also be absorbed into the soil (addressed in the next paragraph). Regulatory Guide 1.113 discusses the use of simple models to estimate transport through surface water bodies and considers water usage effects.

Spills or leaks of radioactive material to the ground surface should initiate characterization of the runoff.

The characterization activities should, at a minimum, satisfy (1) the requirements of 10 CFR 50.75(g), as well as (2) the effluent reporting requirements of NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302 typically associated with planned effluents (e.g., sampling before discharge to unrestricted areas). Refer to Regulatory Positions 8.5.1, 8.5.2, and 8.5.9 in this guide for recommendations on the general format for reporting abnormal releases to on-site areas and abnormal discharges to unrestricted areas.

3.6 Spills and Leaks to Ground Water

Liquid radioactive leaks and spills are sometimes released to on-site ground water or discharged to offsite ground water. Leaks and spills onto the ground surface can be absorbed into the soil. Once in the soil, some of the material in the leak or spill may, depending on the local soil properties and associated liquid flux of the release, eventually reach the local water table. The dispersion of this material depends on the local subsurface geology and hydrogeologic characteristics. Liquid releases into the subsurface will be transported as a function of ground water flow processes and conditions (e.g., hydraulic gradients, permeability, porosity, and geochemical processes) and will eventually be released to the unrestricted area.

A ground water site conceptual model should be developed to predict the subsurface water flow parameters to include direction and rate and to be used as the basis for estimating the dispersion of abnormal releases of liquid effluents into ground water (see Regulatory Guide 4.1). References that can be used in developing an adequate ground water site conceptual model include the following:

1.

ANSI/American Nuclear Society (ANS) 2.17, Evaluation of Subsurface Radionuclide Transport at Commercial Nuclear Power Production Facilities (Ref. 31);

2.

NUREG/CR-6948, Integrated Ground-Water Monitoring Strategy for NRC-Licensed Facilities and Sites, issued November 2007 (Ref. 32); and

3.

Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) Report No. 1011730, Ground Water Monitoring Guidance for Nuclear Power Plants, issued September 2005 (Ref. 33).

4.

NUREG/CR-6805, A Comprehensive Strategy of Hydrogeology Modeling and Uncertainty Analysis for Nuclear Facilities and Sites, July, 2003 (Ref 54).

5.

EPRI Report No. 1015118, Ground Water Protection Guidelines for Nuclear Power Plants, Electric Power Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA, November 2007 (Ref 34).

Simple analytical models or more rigorous numerical codes (i.e., simulations) may be used to evaluate subsurface transport following a release. These models and codes will depend on the release rate,

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 22 depth of the release, depth to the local water table, ground water flow directions, ground water flow rates, geochemical conditions, and other geochemical processes (e.g., geochemical retardation). Additionally, water usage such as ground water pumping from wells may create local ground water depression(s) that can alter the natural ground water flow.

Sites should perform a basic site hydrogeological characterization, in advance of leaks or spills, to be prepared to evaluate potential leaks and spills. Sites with significant residual radioactivity that are likely to exceed the radiological criteria for unrestricted use at the time of decommissioning (e.g., as described in

10 CFR 20.1402) should perform more extensive evaluation. Initial assessments should be conducted with relatively simple site conceptual models using scoping surveys and/or bounding assumptions. The complexity of the models should increase as (1) more knowledge is obtained about the system under evaluation (e.g., source of leak, plume size, concentrations, radionuclides, site characteristics, presence of preferential flow pathways, etc) and as (2) the dose estimates rise above significant residual radioactivity levels (see definition in the glossary). Industry documents (Refs. 31, 33, and 34) that contain details of various industry practices can be used as part of a ground-water monitoring program. Sites with low-level spills or leaks generally do not require extensive site characterization and monitoring.

Some basic steps in monitoring ground water contamination are summarized below:

1. Use the site conceptual model (as necessary) to assist in monitoring, evaluating, and reporting radioactive releases and radioactive discharges.

2. Collect empirical data by one or more of the following (as necessary):

a. sample and analyze ground water from existing monitoring wells, and b. conduct additional hydrogeologic testing using existing wells (or new wells) if required.

3. Test the site conceptual model and radionuclide transport predictions using groundwater sample results and data collected during hydrogeologic testing.

4. Modify site conceptual model and radionuclide transport parameters as necessary to predict discharges and assess doses to members of the public.

5. Return to step 1.

The ground water monitoring results should be used in the development and testing of a site conceptual model to predict radionuclide transport in ground water. A more thorough discussion is contained in the references listed in section C.3.6. The site conceptual model is generally considered adequate when it predicts the results of monitoring (sometimes called a calibrated model). Ground water monitoring results are used to evaluate the validity of the site conceptual model. Following a leak or spill of contaminated material, the site conceptual model may be used in conjunction with radionuclide transport modeling and ground water monitoring to comprise a basis for predicting future effluents from the site. Account should be taken of dispersion and dilution that occurs over time and in three dimensions.

The site conceptual model together with a strategic and carefully planned monitoring program can ensure that necessary and reasonable surveys are performed (i.e., limited scoping surveys or more extensive surveys). Limited scoping surveys should be performed to determine if significant residual radioactivity exists and to determine if there is adequate protection of public health and safety. If the limited scoping surveys identify significant residual radioactivity, then the extent of the contamination

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 23 should be further evaluated by more extensive surveys (e.g., monitoring wells or other evaluations as appropriate). These survey activities may be direct (i.e., occurring at, or very near, the source of the leak)

or indirect (i.e., occurring at some distance from the source of the leak) depending on the accessibility of the source of the spill or leak and the mobility of the radionuclides. For spills or leaks occurring below the soil surface in inaccessible locations, direct scoping and characterization may not be feasible. In these cases, indirect monitoring techniques (e.g., ground water monitoring wells in a down gradient direction)

should be used to satisfy existing regulatory requirements. These survey activities should, at a minimum, satisfy (1) the requirements of 10 CFR 50.75(g) and (2) the effluent reporting requirements of

10 CFR 50.36a for ground water discharges to the unrestricted area. In general, leaks and spills of radioactive material should be described (reported) in the ARERR for the calendar year the spill or leak occurred. Additionally, ground water monitoring data should be reported in the ARERR for the calendar year in which the data were collected. Refer to Regulatory Positions 8.5.1, 8.5.2, and 8.5.9 of this document for guidance on the general format for reporting abnormal releases to on-site areas and abnormal discharges to unrestricted areas.

Although licensees may conduct a ground water monitoring effort for different reasons, for purposes of this regulatory guide, the surveys, characterization activities, site conceptual models, and other components of any ground water monitoring effort should be sufficient to do the following:

1.

appropriately report, for purposes of accountability, effluents discharged to unrestricted areas,

2.

document information in a format consistent with Table A-6 and Regulatory Position 8.5,

3.

provide advance indication of potential future discharges to unrestricted areas (to ensure releases are planned and monitored before discharge),

4.

demonstrate that significant residual radioactivity has not migrated off site to an unrestricted area in the annual reporting interval, and

5.

communicate pertinent information to the NRC.

4. Quality Assurance

4.1 Regulatory Guidance

A range of QC checks and tests should be applied to the analytical process. Regulatory Guide 4.15, Revisions 1 and 2, describe the QA program activities for ensuring that radioactive effluent monitoring systems and operational programs meet their intended purpose. Each licensees licensing basis determines the applicability of Revision 1 or Revision 2. Licensees with programs in operation before the issuance of Regulatory Guide 4.15, Revision 2, may rely exclusively on Revision

1. Regulatory Guide

4.15, Revision 2, contains guidance on determining appropriate sensitivity levels for analytical instrumentation based on data quality objectives (DQOs). The use of DQOs may provide a better technical basis for determining sensitivity levels (LLDs) than the use of the default values supplied in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302. A combination approach (using both Revision 1 and Revision 2 of Regulatory Guide 4.15) can be used to determine appropriate sensitivity levels (LLDs) different (i.e., higher or numerically larger) than those listed in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 24

4.2 Quality Control Checks

QC checks of laboratory instrumentation should be conducted daily or before use, and background variations should be monitored at regular intervals to demonstrate that a given instrument is in working condition and functioning properly. QC records should include results of routine tests and checks, background data, calibrations, and all routine maintenance and service.

4.3 Functional Checks

Routine qualitative tests and checks (e.g., channel operational tests, channel checks, or source checks to demonstrate that a given instrument is in working condition and functioning properly) may be performed using radioactive sources that are not traceable by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The schedule for source checks, channel checks, channel calibrations, and channel operational tests should be in accordance with NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302.

4.4 Procedures

Individual written procedures should be used to establish specific methods of calibrating installed radiological monitoring systems and grab sampling equipment. Written procedures should document calibration practices used for ancillary equipment and systems (e.g., meteorological equipment, airflow measuring equipment, in-stack monitoring pitot tubes). Calibration procedures may be compilations of published standard practices or manufacturers instructions that accompany purchased equipment, or they may be specially written in house to include special methods or items of equipment not covered elsewhere.

Calibration procedures should identify the specific equipment or group of instruments to which the procedures apply.

Written procedures should be used for maintaining counting room instrument accuracy, including maintenance, storage, and use of radioactive reference standards; instrumentation calibration methods; and QC activities such as collection, reduction, evaluation, and reporting of QC data.

4.5 Calibration of Laboratory Equipment and Radiation Monitors

Calibrations (e.g., of laboratory equipment and continuous radiation monitoring systems used to quantify radioactive effluents) should be performed using reference standards certified by NIST or standards that have been calibrated against NIST-certified standards. Calibration standards should have the necessary accuracy, stability, and range required for their intended use. Continuous radioactivity monitoring systems should be calibrated against appropriate NIST standards. The relationship between concentrations and monitor readings should be determined over the full range of the readout device.

Adequacy of the system should be judged on the basis of reproducibility, time stability, and sensitivity.

Periodic inservice correlations that relate monitor readings to the concentrations and/or release rates of radioactive material in the monitored release path should be performed to validate the adequacy of the system. These correlations should be based on the results of analyses for specific radionuclides in grab samples from the release path.

The use of NIST-traceable sources combined with mathematical efficiency calibrations may be applied to instrumentation used for radiochemical analysis (e.g., gamma spectroscopy systems) if employing a method provided by the instrument manufacturer.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 25

4.6 Calibration of Measuring and Test Equipment

Measuring and test equipment should be calibrated using reference standards certified by NIST or standards that have been calibrated against standards certified by NIST. The calibration standards should be representative of the sample types analyzed and have the necessary accuracy, stability, and range required for their intended use.

4.7 Calibration Frequency

Calibrations should generally be performed at regular intervals in accordance with the frequencies established in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302. A change in calibration frequency (an increase or decrease) should be based on the reproducibility and time stability characteristics of the system. For example, an instrument system that gives a relatively wide range of readings when calibrated against a given standard should be recalibrated at more frequent intervals than one that gives measurements within a more narrow range. Any monitoring system or individual measuring equipment should be recalibrated or replaced whenever it is suspected of being out of adjustment, excessively worn, or otherwise damaged and not operating properly.

4.8 Measurement Uncertainty

The measurement uncertainty (formerly called measurement error) associated with the measurement of radioactive materials in effluents should be estimated. Counting statistics can provide an estimate of the statistical counting uncertainty involved in radioactivity analyses. Because it may be difficult to assign error terms for each parameter affecting the final measurement, detailed statistical evaluations of error are not required. Normally, the statistical counting uncertainty decreases as the amount (concentration) of radioactivity increases. Thus, for the radioactive effluent release report, the statistical counting uncertainty is typically a small component of the total uncertainty. The sampling uncertainty is likely the largest component and includes uncertainties such as the uncertainty in volumetric and flow rate measurements and laboratory processing uncertainties.

The total or expanded measurement uncertainty associated with the effluent measurement should ideally include the cumulative uncertainties resulting from the total operation of sampling and measurement. Expanded uncertainty should be reported with measurement results. The objective should be to evaluate only the important contributors and obtain a reasonable measure of the uncertainty associated with reported results. Detailed statistical and experimental evaluations are not required. The overall objective should be to obtain an overall estimate of measurement uncertainty. The formula for calculating the total or expanded uncertainty classically includes the square root of the sum of squares of each important contributor to the measurement uncertainty. Licensees may obtain additional information from NUREG-1576 and ANSI/HPS N13.1-1999 if there is a need to improve the estimate of uncertainty.

5. Dose Assessments for Individual Members of the Public

The regulation in 10 CFR 20.1301 establishes dose limits for individual members of the public.

The regulations referenced in Regulatory Positions 5.4 through 5.6 contain both dose limits and design objectives that the licensee demonstrates compliance with through calculations. Table 1 summarizes the fundamental parameters associated with the dose calculations. Regulatory Positions 5.7 and 5.8 present important concepts for these calculations. Because of differences between NRC and EPA regulations, only demonstrating compliance with radiological effluent technical specifications (based on Appendix I to

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 26

10 CFR Part 50) does not necessarily ensure compliance with EPAs 40 CFR Part 190, Environmental Radiation Protection Standards for Nuclear Power Operations (Ref. 35), particularly if there is a direct radiation component (e.g., from BWR shine, ISFSI, or radioactive materials storage).

Table 1. Parameters Associated with Dose Calculations

10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I

10 CFR 20.1301(e)

(EPA 40 CFR Part 190)

Dose Whole Body, Max of Any Organ, Gamma Air, and Beta Air Whole Body, Thyroid, and Max of Any Organ Basis ICRP-2 EPA 40 CFR Part 190

Where Unrestricted Area Unrestricted Area Individual Receptor Real Person/Exposure Pathway (nearest real residence, real garden, real dairy/meat animal)

Real Person/Exposure Pathway (nearest real residence, real garden, real dairy/meat animal)

Origin Liquid and Gas Radioactive Waste Liquid and Gas Radioactive Waste Direct Radiation (e.g., shine, nitrogen-16, ISFSI, radioactive materials storage, outside tanks)

Accumulated Radioactive Material (e.g.,

tritium in lake water) Not Already Included in Dose Estimates Radioactive Material Licensed Only Licensed and Unlicensed When Current year Current and Prior Years Operation

5.1 Bounding Assessments

Bounding assessments may be useful in those circumstances where compliance can be readily demonstrated using conservative assumptions. For purposes of this document, the term bounding assessment means that the reported value is unlikely to be substantially underestimated (see 10 CFR 50

Appendix I,Section III). Bounding assessments for the current year do not imply the absolute bounds for future conditions.

For example, licensees may use conservative bounding dose assessments in lieu of site-specific dose assessments of the maximum dose to individual members of the public. Instead of assessing dose from ground level effluent releases to a real individual member of the public located 2 miles from the site boundary, a conservative bounding dose assessment can be performed for a hypothetical individual located at the site boundary.

If bounding assumptions are made, the radioactive effluent release report should state such and should annotate the assumptions. Hypothetical exposure pathways and locations are sometimes used for bounding dose assessments (or hazard evaluations done in accordance with 10 CFR 20.1501). See the definition of hypothetical exposure pathway in the glossary.

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5.2 Individual Members of the Public

Individual members of the public reside in the unrestricted area but at times may enter the controlled area of a commercial nuclear power plant. Each licensee is responsible for classifying individuals (by location) as either members of the public or as occupational workers. (See definition of members of the public in 10 CFR Part 20.) The annual dose limits for members of the public in the unrestricted area are 25 millirem (mrem) whole body and 75 mrem to the thyroid and 25 mrem to any other organ in accordance with the EPA regulations in 40 CFR Part 190; the limits are 100 mrem in accordance with 10 CFR 20.1301. In effect, annual dose limits to members of the public while in the unrestricted area are the EPA limits of 25 mrem whole body and 75 mrem to the thyroid and 25 mrem to any other organ;

whereas the annual dose limit for a member of the public in the licensees controlled area is the NRCs total effective dose equivalent limit of 100 mrem.

If bounding assessments are not used, licensees should perform evaluations to determine the dose to a real, maximum exposed member of the public, regardless of whether the individual is in an unrestricted area or a controlled area. If no member of the public is allowed in the controlled area, the evaluation need consider only members of the public in the unrestricted area. A member of the public is typically a real individual in a designated location where there is a real exposure pathway (e.g., a real garden, real cow, real goat, or actual drinking water supply) and is typically not a fictitious fencepost resident or an exposure pathway that includes a virtual goat or cow. Licensees are encouraged (but not required) to use real individual members of the public when performing dose assessments for radioactive discharges. Table 1 in Regulatory Guide 1.109 allows a dose evaluation to be performed at a location where an exposure pathway and dose receptor actually existed at the time of licensing.

5.3 Occupancy Factors

For members of the public in the unrestricted area, occupancy factors should be assumed to be

100 percent at locations identified in the land use census, unless site-specific information indicates otherwise. Occupancy factors may be applied inside the controlled area based on estimated hours spent in the controlled area.

5.4 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I

Appendix I to 10 CFR Part 50 contains numerical guidance for design objectives and limiting conditions of operation for radioactive waste systems to ensure discharges of radioactive liquid and gaseous effluents to unrestricted areas are ALARA. This numerical guidance is listed in terms of annual air doses (gamma and beta), annual total body doses, and annual organ doses (see below). License technical specifications require that exposure to liquid and gaseous effluents conform to the numerical guidance in 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I. Per 10 CFR 50.34a, Design Objectives for Equipment to Control Releases of Radioactive Material in EffluentsNuclear Power Reactors, these numerical guides for design objectives and limiting conditions of operation are not to be construed as radiation protection standards. For these dose calculations, the following terms are generally used:

1.

air doses (gamma and beta), total body doses, and organ doses (based on International Commission on Radiation Protection (ICRP)-2, Report of Committee II on Permissible Dose for Internal Radiation, issued 1959 (Ref. 36));

2.

effluent discharges only (excludes direct radiation from the facility and ISFSIs);

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 28

3.

current annual period (excludes accumulated radioactivity from prior-year effluents); and

4.

unrestricted area (excludes individuals in the restricted areas and controlled areas).

When calculating air doses licensees should assure that for any location outside the site boundary doses do not exceed the 10 CFR 50 Appendix I design objectives. Calculation of air dose at the site boundary would assure the most conservative calculation of air doses for ground-level releases. This may not be true for elevated releases. Licensees should select a location that assures the most conservative calculation of air dose.

5.5 10 CFR 20.1301(a) through (c)

This regulation specifies dose limits for members of the public from licensed operation of the facility. These limits apply to doses resulting from licensed and unlicensed radioactive material and from radiation sources other than background radiation (see 10 CFR 20.1001, Purpose). Demonstration of compliance with the limits of 40 CFR Part 190 will be considered to also demonstrate compliance with the

0.1 rem total effective dose equivalent limit of 10 CFR 20.1301(a) (Ref. 37).

5.6 10 CFR 20.1301(e)

For those facilities subject to EPAs generally applicable environmental radiation standards promulgated in 40 CFR Part 190, licensees must assess the highest cumulative (whole body and organ)

doses from the uranium fuel cycle to a real individual outside the site boundary. The limits include (1)

contributions from current-year effluents, (2) current-year direct radiation from the facility, and

(3) accumulated radioactivity from prior-year effluents that are not already included in items 1 and 2.

These requirements include the following considerations:

1.

Whole body and organ doses (ICRP-2 concepts).

2.

Any member of the public means any individual except when that individual is receiving an occupational dose.

3.

The unrestricted area means in the general environment outside the (boundaries of)

locations under the control of persons possessing or using radioactive material. This is the area outside the site boundary, excluding the controlled area and the restricted area. (See the definition of generally applicable environmental radiation standards in

10 CFR 20.1003, Definitions.)

4.

Current-year effluents includes both normal and abnormal discharges to the unrestricted area.

5.

Current-year direct radiation includes all direct radiation from the facility (e.g., radioactive waste storage and ISFSIs) but excludes doses from radioactive waste shipments.

6.

Cumulative dose means the sum of (1) current-year effluent dose, (2) current-year direct radiation dose, and (3) dose from accumulated radioactivity if not already included in the first two categories.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 29

7.

Accumulated radioactivity includes radioactive material in the unrestricted area from prior-year discharges that remains in the environment (e.g., tritium in lake water or radionuclides).

8.

The uranium fuel cycle excludes uranium mining, radioactive waste shipping (in the unrestricted area), operations at waste disposal sites, and reuse of non-uranium special nuclear materials (see definition of uranium fuel cycle in 40 CFR Part 190, also in Glossary of this document).

5.7 Dose Assessments for 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I

Dose assessments to show compliance with technical specification requirements for meeting the numerical values of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, design objectives should include quarterly and annual doses using the considerations of Regulatory Position 5.4. They should be reported in a format similar to that shown in Table A-4 in the appendix to this regulatory guide and include the items listed below:

1.

doses from liquid effluents a.

total body dose, quarterly and annual, b.

organ dose, quarterly and annual (maximum, any organ), and c.

percent of limits for each of the above.

2.

doses from gaseous effluents a.

beta and gamma air doses, quarterly and annual, b.

organ dose commitment from iodine, tritium, and particulate releases with half-lives greater than 8 days, quarterly and annual, and c.

percent of limit for each of the above.

An evaluation of the local exposure pathways to determine the maximum exposed member of the public should be performed. However, maximum doses from various exposure pathways are not additive from different locations. For example, dose from a downstream drinking water exposure pathway should not be added to the dose to an upstream resident whose exposure is from gaseous effluents and direct radiation unless that individuals drinking water is obtained from the down stream location.

Maximum doses to real individuals are assessed as described in Regulatory Guide 1.109. The locations and exposure pathways are those where real individuals are present and exposed. Maximum exposed individuals are characterized as maximum with regard to food consumption, occupancy, and other usage of the region in the vicinity of the plant site. For example, licensees should make maximum assumptions for food consumption and occupancy factors at actual locations when assessing dose to the maximum exposed individual, unless they have determined and applied site-specific (actual) data. In lieu of assessing dose to real individuals, bounding dose assessments may also be used for compliance with

10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I (see the section titled Bounding Assessments).

The objective of Appendix I is to provide numerical guides for design objectives and limiting conditions for operation to ensure that radioactive effluent control equipment is effective in reducing emissions to ALARA levels. The numerical guidance pertains to quarterly and annual dose criteria at or beyond the unrestricted area from current-year effluent discharges. The Appendix I related calculations do not include dose from radioactivity in prior-year, accumulated, effluent discharges (e.g., last years radioactivity remaining in lake water is excluded). Note: However, the dose calculations for

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 30

demonstrating compliance with the EPA limits do include accumulated radioactivity. (See Section 5.8 below.)

The exposure pathways and routes of exposure identified in Regulatory Guide 1.109 and other exposure pathways and routes of exposure that may arise because of unique conditions at a specific site should be considered if they are likely to contribute significantly to the total dose. Other exposure pathways are considered significant if a conservative evaluation yields an additional dose increment equal to or more than 10 percent of the total from all exposure pathways considered in RG 1.109 (see the regulatory position C in Regulatory Guide 1.109). An evaluation of other exposure pathways (not included in dose assessments) should be performed and maintained for purposes of demonstrating compliance with staff position C in Regulatory Guide 1.109. A thoroughly designed and documented evaluation of a less significant release point could also assist in the evaluation and characterization of abnormal releases and abnormal discharges.

Real exposure pathways are identified for routine discharges and direct radiation based on the results of the land use census. Dose calculations should typically be performed based on real exposure pathways. Conversely, dose assessments (i.e., surveillances and dose calculations) are not needed for exposure pathways that do not exist at a site. For example, if the land use census does not identify the existence of an ingestion exposure pathway involving a milk animal, the licensee is not required to assess that route of exposure for the ingestion exposure pathway. Similarly, if a licensee discharges liquid radioactive waste to a body of water (either surface water or ground water) and that body of water is not used as a source of drinking water (either private or public), a drinking water assessment is not required.

For purposes of reporting information in the ARERR, there is a distinction between dose assessments for Appendix I to 10 CFR Part 50 and hazard assessments that may be conducted for on-site spills and leaks as outlined in 10 CFR 20.1501 (where bounding estimates may be necessary). (See bounding dose estimates in Section 5.1.)

5.8 Dose Assessments for 10 CFR 20.1301(e)

To show compliance with 10 CFR 20.1301(e), dose assessments should be reported according to the generally applicable environmental radiation standards promulgated by EPA at 40 CFR Part 190, with consideration of Regulatory Position 5.6 and in a format similar to that shown in Table A-5 of the appendix to this guide.

5.8.1 The following should be reported:

1.

whole body dose to the maximum individual member of the public

2.

thyroid dose to the maximum individual member of the public

3.

dose to any other organ to the maximum individual member of the public

4.

percent of the applicable limit

5.8.2 One means of demonstrating compliance with 40 CFR Part 190 is listed in the Federal Register

(42 FR 2859), (Ref. 38), which states the following:

In the case of light water reactors, demonstrating conformance with Appendix I of 10 CFR 50 are generally adequate for demonstrating compliance with [EPA 40 CFR Part 190].

As a result, a licensee who (1) can demonstrate that external sources of direct radiation are indistinguishable from background and who (2) demonstrates compliance with the numerical dose

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 31 guidance of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, may cite the above reference as the basis for demonstrating compliance with 40 CFR Part 190.

However, licensees who (1) have external sources of direct radiation that are above background and (2) demonstrate compliance with the numerical dose guidance of 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, must also include sources of direct radiation from uranium fuel cycle operations (e.g., including direct radiation from the licensed facility as well as co-located or nearby nuclear power facilities if appropriate).

5.8.3 The dose contributions from direct radiation may be estimated based on either (1) direct radiation measurements (e.g., thermoluminescent dosimeters, optically stimulated devices, or integrating portable ion chambers), (2) calculations, or (3) a combination of measurements and calculations. When direct radiation dose is determined by measurement, estimates of background levels of radiation may be subtracted based on selected control locations. The doses measured from control and indicator locations should be taken from the same time period. When choosing the appropriate control location(s), licensees should consider the historical variability in doses measured at the control and indicator locations. Several sources contain additional information regarding background subtraction for thermoluminescent dosimeters (Refs. 39, 40, 41, and 42). Methods of determining dose from direct radiation to the maximum exposed individual member of the public may also include extrapolation methods.

Licensees must demonstrate compliance with 10 CFR 20.1301(e) for the generally applicable environmental radiation standards promulgated in 40 CFR Part 190. These include the concept of a total dose (to the whole body and to any organ) from all sources related to the uranium fuel cycle.

Contributions to the total dose from radioactive effluents (liquid and gaseous) and direct radiation should be included, if applicable. Other sources (e.g., accumulated radioactive materials in offsite ponds or lakes from previous years discharges) should also be included, if applicable, when estimating the total dose. However, if the contributions from direct radiation or accumulated radioactivity are generally minor (as evaluated and documented in a licensee technical evaluation as not contributing to the total dose), these contributions need not be included in the total dose evaluation, but the basis for exclusion should be documented.

5.9 Dose Calculations

Acceptable dose assessment models, such as those provided in Regulatory Guides 1.109, 1.111,

1.112, Calculation of Releases of Radioactive Materials in Gaseous and Liquid Effluents from Light- Water-Cooled Power Reactors, (Ref. 43) and 1.113, should be used to make dose calculations. When calculating organ doses from airborne effluents, contributions from I-131, I-133, tritium, and radionuclides in particulate form with half-lives greater than 8 days should be included in the assessment.

6. Solid Radioactive Waste Shipped for Processing or Disposal

Solid radioactive waste shipments should be reported in a format similar to that of Table A-3 in Appendix A to this guide. The data should be divided by waste classification and by the waste stream categories listed in Table A-3. The waste streams are (1) resins, filters, and evaporator bottoms, (2) dry active waste, (3) irradiated components, and (4) other waste. The data reported should be for the low-level waste (LLW) volumes shipped from a plant site for waste processing or disposal (not the radioactive waste volumes that are ultimately buried).

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 32 Note: Data on LLW disposed in licensed LLW disposal facilities is available using the Manifest Information Management System (MIMS) operated by the Department of Energy. There are no requirements for reporting storage of LLW at nuclear power plants. However, LLW storage records are maintained at nuclear plants and are available for NRC inspection during routine effluent inspections.

Shipments that do not need to be reported include shipments of metal melt, contaminated equipment for transfer between licensees or equipment for refurbishment, contaminated laundry (either launderable or dissolvable), or radioactive samples for analysis. Potentially contaminated dry active waste sent for resurvey and segregation (sometimes referred to as green is clean) does not need to be reported.

Equipment shipped for decontamination and free release does not need to be reported. However, records of these types of shipments should be maintained on site.

The total curie quantity and major radionuclides in the solid waste shipped off site should be determined and reported in a format similar to that of Table A-3.

7. Reporting Errata in Effluent Release Reports

Errors in radioactive effluent release reports should be classified and reported as described below.

7.1 Examples of Small Errors

Small errors may be any of the following:

1.

inaccurate reporting of dose that equates to 10 percent of the applicable 10 CFR 50

Appendix I design objective or 10 percent of the EPA public dose criterion,

2.

inaccurate reporting of curies (or release rates, volumes, etc.) that equate to 10 percent of the affected curie total (or release rate, volume, etc.), after correction;

3.

omissions that do not impede the NRCs ability to adequately assess the information supplied by the licensee, or

4.

typographical errors or other errors that do not alter the intent of the report.

7.2 Reporting Small Errors

Small errors should be corrected within one year of discovery, and the correction may be submitted with the next (normally scheduled) submittal of the ARERR as follows. A brief narrative explanation of the errors should be included in Section 8, Errata/Corrections to Previous ARERRs, of Table A-6, Supplemental Information. The narrative should include a statement that the affected pages, in their entirety, are included as attachments to the ARERR. Additionally, the affected, corrected pages, in their entirety, should be submitted as an attachment (or addendum) to the ARERR. The corrected pages should reference the affected calendar year and should contain revision bars in the margins of the page to indicate the locations of the changes. If submitting corrections to multiple ARERRs, make a separate attachment (or addendum) for each of the affected years. Other methods of correcting previous ARERRs may be used provided the corrections are clearly and completely described.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 33

7.3 Examples of Large Errors

Large errors may be any of the following:

1.

inaccurate reporting of dose that equates to >10 percent of the Appendix I or EPA

public dose criterion, after correction;

2.

inaccurate reporting of curies (or release rate, volume, et

c. that equate to

>10 percent of the affected curie total (or release rate, volume, etc.), after correction; "

3.

omissions that may impede the NRCs ability to adequately assess the information supplied by the licensee; and

4.

typographical errors or other errors that do significantly alter the intent of the report.

7.4 Reporting Large Errors

Large errors should be corrected within 90 days of discovery. The correction may be made by special submittal or may be submitted with the next (normally scheduled) ARERR (if the next ARERR is to be submitted within 90 days of discovery of the error). If corrections are made by special submittal, include a brief narrative explaining the errors. The narrative should include a statement that the affected pages, in their entirety, are included as an attachment. Attach the affected, corrected pages, in their entirety. The corrected pages should reference the affected calendar year and should contain revision bars in the margins of the page to indicate the locations of the changes. If submitting corrections to multiple ARERRs, make a separate attachment (or addendum) for each of the affected years. If corrections are made coincident with the next (normally scheduled) submittal of the ARERR, use the correction process as specified in section 7.2 (for small errors) above. Other methods of correcting previous ARERRs may be used provided the corrections are clearly and completely described.

8. Format and Content of the Annual Radioactive Effluent Release Report

In accordance with 10 CFR 50.4, Written Communications, the annual report should be submitted electronically or in a written communication. The report should consist of a summary of the numerical data in a tabular format similar to Tables A-1 through A-5 in Appendix A to this guide.

Effluent data reported in Tables A-1, A-1A through A-1F, A-2, A-2A, A-2B, and A-4 should be summarized on a quarterly and annual basis. Tables A-3 and A-5 should be summarized on an annual basis. In addition to numerical data, additional supplemental information should be included containing all the information in (but not necessarily in the format of) Table A-6. Additional detail for the information contained in each of these tables is listed below. For purposes of compliance with 10 CFR 50.36a, the ARERR must be submitted by May 1 (unless a licensing basis exists for a different submittal date) for effluents and solid waste from the previous calendar year.

Radionuclides that are not detected for the entire reporting period do not need to be listed in the tables (Tables A-1A through A-1F, A-2A, and A-2B). Activity that is detected should be reported in the appropriate tables (i.e., Tables A-1, A-2, A-1A through A-1F, A-2A, and A-2B) in the ARERR, provided that the amount discharged is numerically significant with respect to the three-digit exponential format recommended for the ARERR. This should not be confused with three significant figure

s. Licensees may

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 34 round numbers according to accepted practices (e.g., refer to ASTM E-29, Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications (Ref. 48)); however, after rounding has been completed, values should be reported in the ARERR in a three-digit exponential format.

Measurements should be reported for positive values. Some radionuclides that are detected in a year may not be detected in all quarters. If results are determined to be below detectable levels for an entire quarter, the table entry should include a suitable designation (e.g., N/D and an accompanying footnote) to denote that measurements were performed but no activity was detected.

The format specified in Revision 2 of this regulatory guide differs slightly from that specified in Revision 1 of Regulatory Guide 1.21. The format and content as specified in Revision 2 are one acceptable method of reporting the data. Other formats may be used (e.g., some tables may be combined)

as long as the specified content is satisfied (e.g., quarterly totals and annual totals by each release category). All plants are encouraged to use the format listed below to maximize consistency in data reporting. This format is designed to be consistent with some commonly used electronic-data-reporting software packages. Consistency aids review by members of the public and allows easier industry-wide comparisons of the data.

8.1 Gaseous Effluents

The quarterly and annual sums of all radionuclides discharged in gaseous effluents (i.e., routine and abnormal discharges, continuous, and batch) should be reported in a format similar to that of Tables A-1A through A-1F in Appendix A to this regulatory guide. The data should then be further summarized and reported in the format of Table A-1. Additional information on each of these tables is provided below.

Table A-1, Gaseous Effluents - Summation of All Discharges, contains a summation of all gaseous effluent discharges from all release points and all modes of release. The data are subdivided by quarter and year for each radionuclide category: (a) fission and activation gases, (b) iodines/halogens, (c) particulates, (d) tritium, and (e) gross alpha.

Table A-1A, Gaseous EffluentsGround-Level ReleaseBatch Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from ground-level release points in the batch mode of release for five radionuclide categories: fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, and gross alpha. Licensees should report the following:

1.

curies of each radionuclide discharged by quarter and year, and

2.

total curies discharged in each radionuclide category (fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, and gross alpha) by quarter and year.

Some licensees may have surveillance requirements allowing the non-noble gas radionuclides (e.g., iodines and tritium) for some types of batch releases (e.g., containment purge) to be reported with continuous release results. In these instances, the table entries for the affected radionuclides for batch releases should include an appropriate designation (e.g., *) and an accompanying footnote describing this situation.

Table A-1B, Gaseous Effluents - Ground-Level Release - Continuous Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from ground-level release points in the continuous mode of release for five radionuclide categories: fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, and gross alpha. Licensees should report the following:

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 35

1.

curies of each radionuclide discharged by quarter and year, and

2.

total curies discharged in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.

Table A-1C, Gaseous Effluents.-.Elevated Release.-.Batch Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from elevated release points in the batch mode of release for five radionuclide categories: fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, and gross alpha. Licensees should report the following:

1.

curies of each radionuclide released by quarter and year, and

2.

total curies released in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.

Some licensees may have surveillance requirements allowing the non-noble gas radionuclides (e.g., iodines and tritium) for some types of batch releases (e.g., containment purge) to be reported with continuous release results. In these instances, the table entries for the affected radionuclides for batch releases should include an appropriate designation (e.g., *) and an accompanying footnote describing this situation.

Table A-1D, Gaseous EffluentsElevated ReleaseContinuous Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from elevated release points in the continuous mode of release for five radionuclide categories: fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, and gross alpha. Licensees should report the following:

1.

curies of each radionuclide released by quarter and year, and

2.

total curies released in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.

Table A-1E, Gaseous EffluentsMixed Mode ReleaseBatch Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from mixed-mode release points in the continuous mode of release for five radionuclide categories: fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, and gross alpha. Licensees should report the following:

1.

curies of each radionuclide released by quarter and year, and

2.

total curies released in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.

Some licensees may have surveillance requirements allowing the non-noble gas radionuclides (e.g., iodines and tritium) for some types of batch releases (e.g., containment purge) to be reported with continuous release results. In these instances, the table entries for the affected radionuclides for batch releases should include an appropriate designation (e.g., *) and an accompanying footnote describing this situation.

Table A-1F, Gaseous Effluents - Mixed Mode Release - Continuous Mode, contains a summation of gaseous effluent releases from mixed-modes release points in the continuous mode of release for five radionuclide categories: fission and activation gases, iodines/halogens, particulates, tritium, and gross alpha. Licensees should report the following:

1.

curies of each radionuclide released by quarter and year, and

2.

total curies released in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 36

8.2 Liquid Effluents

The quarterly and annual sums of all radionuclides released in liquid effluents (i.e., routine and abnormal discharges, continuous, and batch) should be reported in a format similar to that of the Tables A-

2A and A-2B. The data should then be further summarized and reported in the format of Appendix A,

Table A-2. The following provides additional information on each of these tables.

Table A-2, Liquid Effluents - Summation of All Releases, contains a summation of all liquid radioactive discharges from all release points and all modes of release. The data are subdivided by quarter and year for each of the radionuclide categories: (a) fission and activation products, (b) tritium, (c) dissolved and entrained noble gases, and (d) gross alpha. The total volume of primary coolant waste (typically batch mode releases) before dilution is also included. In this context, primary coolant waste means the higher activity waste that generally is not discharged directly, but is instead typically processed through the liquid radioactive waste treatment system before discharge. Various methods exist for calculating the dilution water flow rate. Health Physics Position HPPOS-099, Attention to Liquid Dilution Volumes in Semiannual Radioactive Effluent Release Reports, issued November 1984, indicates that licensees should use the total volume of dilution flow, not just that flow during periods of liquid effluent releases (Ref. 49). Licensees should include information describing how this value is calculated in either the ODCM or the ARERR. Because the primary coolant waste typically accounts for the vast majority of the radioactive liquid waste discharges, it is recommended the volume and dilution data be summarized separately from the low-activity waste described in the following paragraph.

Report the total measured volume or average flow rate of waste from secondary or balance-of-plant systems (e.g., steam generator blowdown, low activity waste sumps, and auxiliary boilers). In this context, secondary or balance-of-plant waste means the typically very low activity waste that is generally not processed with the liquid radioactive waste treatment system and that collectively represents a very large volume of waste. Various methods exist for calculating the dilution water flow rate. Health Physics Position HPPOS-099 indicates that licensees should use the total volume of dilution flow, not just that volume discharged during periods of liquid effluent releases. Licensees should include information describing how this value is calculated in either the ODCM or the ARERR. Because of the potentially high volume and extremely low activity of this type of waste, it is recommended the volume and dilution data be summarized separately from the higher activity waste described in the previous paragraph.

Licensees should report dilution flow rates during periods of release (before effluent is discharged to the receiving water body) as described above. If calculated differently than described above, the licensee should describe the method of calculation. Licensees may choose to report near-field dilution if dilution by the receiving water body is taken into account. Licensees may report the average, minimum, and/or peak river or stream flow rates if applicable.

Table A-2A, Liquid EffluentsBatch Mode, contains a summation of liquid effluent discharges in the batch mode of release. The table is divided into four radionuclide categories: fission and activation products, tritium, dissolved and entrained gases, and gross alpha. Licensees should report the following:

1.

curies of each radionuclide and gross alpha discharged by quarter and year, and

2.

total curies in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 37 Table A-2B, Liquid EffluentsContinuous Mode, contains a summation of liquid effluent discharges in the continuous mode of release. The table is divided into four radionuclide categories:

fission and activation products, tritium, dissolved and entrained gases, and gross alpha. Licensees should report the following:

1.

curies of each radionuclide and gross alpha discharged by quarter and year, and

2.

total curies in each radionuclide category by quarter and year.

8.3 Solid Waste Storage and Shipments

Appendix A, Table A-3, summarizes the solid radioactive waste (low-level waste) shipped from the site during the reporting period. It is the intent that licensees report the volumes shipped and that licensees are not required to report the volumes that are buried.

The volume and curies shipped in each Waste Classification A, B, and C should be reported for each of the following waste streams:

1.

resins, filters, and evaporator bottoms,

2.

dry active waste,

3.

irradiated components,

4.

other waste, and

5.

sum of all waste.

Excluded from the reporting are those materials that are either being sent for laundry (either for washing or dissolving), metal melt, equipment for decontamination before disposal, and other very low- level waste such as material being surveyed for release in lieu of disposal. However, records of these types of shipments should be maintained on site.

8.4 Dose Assessments

The annual evaluations of dose to members of the public should be calculated using the regulatory guidance in Regulatory Position 5 and should be reported in the format of Tables A-4 and A-5. Dose assessments should be performed to demonstrate compliance with the following:

1.

Licensees should demonstrate compliance with 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I (Table A-4),

by doing the following (note that the type of individual or dose receptor should be identified as a real individual or as a hypothetical individual if using bounding dose assessments; the individual/receptor is in the unrestricted area):

a.

Report the calculated dose from liquid effluents on a quarterly and annual basis to the total body and maximum organ and the percentage of the Appendix I design objectives for the maximum exposed individual. If a particular exposure pathway is not applicable (i.e., it does not exist at a site), no dose should be calculated for that exposure pathway.

b.

Report the highest air dose from gaseous effluents on a quarterly and annual basis at any location that could be occupied by individuals in the unrestricted area and the percentage of the Appendix I design objectives.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 38 c.

Report the organ dose from iodine, tritium, and particulates with a half-life greater than 8 days to the maximum exposed individual in an unrestricted area from all pathways of exposure (e.g., submersion and ingestion).

2.

Licensees should demonstrate compliance with 10 CFR 20.1301(e) and 40 CFR Part 190

(Table A-5) by doing the following:

a.

Report the whole body, thyroid, and highest dose to any other organ from licensed and unlicensed radioactive material in the uranium fuel cycle, excluding background, to the individual member of the public likely to receive the highest dose.

8.5 Supplemental Information

Table A-6 in the appendix can be used to provide supplemental information in a descriptive, narrative form. Relevant information and a description of circumstances should be provided as appropriate for each the following categories, adding categories as appropriate. Use the annotation N/A if not applicable.

8.5.1 Abnormal Releases or Abnormal Discharges

1.

Specific information should be reported concerning abnormal (airborne and/or liquid)

releases on site and abnormal discharges to the unrestricted area. The report should describe each event in a way that would enable the NRC to adequately understand how the material was released and if there was a discharge to the unrestricted area. The report should describe the potential impact on the ingestion exposure pathway involving surface water and ground water, as applicable. The report should also describe the impact (if any)

on other affected exposure pathways (e.g., inhalation).

2.

The following are the thresholds for reporting abnormal releases and abnormal discharges in the supplemental information section:

a.

abnormal releases or abnormal discharges that are voluntarily reported to local authorities under NEI 07-07, Industry Ground Water Protection Initiative Final Guidance Document, (Ref.50);

b.

abnormal releases or abnormal discharges estimated to exceed 100 gallons (380

liters) of radioactive liquid where the presence of licensed radioactive material is positively identified (in either the on-site environs or in the source of the leak or spill) as greater than the minimum detectable activity (the minimum detectable activity is a post-analysis calculation of sensitivity level based on the actual sample measurement) for the laboratory instrumentation;

c.

abnormal releases to on-site areas that result in detectable residual radioactivity after remediation;

d.

abnormal releases that result in a high effluent radiation alarm without an anticipated system trip occurring; and

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 39 e.

abnormal discharges to an unrestricted area.

3.

Information on abnormal releases or abnormal discharges should include the following, as applicable:

a.

date and duration, b.

location, c.

volume, d.

estimated activity of each radionuclide, e.

effluent monitoring results (if any),

f.

on-site monitoring results (if any),

g.

depth to the local water table, h.

classification(s) of subsurface aquifer(s) (e.g., drinking water, unfit for drinking water, not used for drinking water),

i.

size and extent of any ground water plume, j.

expected movement/mobility of any ground water plume, k.

land use characteristics (e.g., water used for irrigation),

l.

remedial actions considered or taken and results obtained, m.

calculated member of the public dose attributable to the release n.

calculated member of the public dose attributable to the discharge, o.

actions taken to prevent recurrence, as applicable, and p.

whether the NRC was notified, the date(s), and the contact organization.

8.5.2 Non-routine Planned Discharges

Discharges resulting from remediation efforts that are not identified in the ODCM should be reported. For example, the remediation effort may include pumping of contaminated ground water in response to leaks and spills.

8.5.3 Radioactive Waste Treatment System Changes

Report any changes or modifications affecting any portion of the gaseous radioactive waste treatment system, the ventilation exhaust treatment system, or the liquid radioactive waste treatment.

8.5.4 Annual Land Use Census Changes

Report any changes or modifications affecting significant aspects of the environmental monitoring program such as receptors, receptor locations, sample media availability, new (or changed) routes of exposure, etc.

8.5.5 Effluent Monitoring System Inoperability

1.

If an effluent radiation monitor is not operable for the consecutive time period listed in the licensees ODCM or technical specifications (typically 30 days), then the ARERR should include the radiation monitors equipment designation, the common name of the effluent radiation monitor, the time period of the inoperability, the reason why this inoperability was not corrected in a timely manner, and any other information required by the licensees ODCM or technical specifications.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 40

2.

In accordance with NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302, Sections 3.3.3.10.b and 3.3.3.11.b the information above is required only when the minimum channels operability requirement is not achieved for the consecutive time period listed in the ODCM (typically

30 days).

8.5.6 Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Changes

Report any changes or modifications affecting significant aspects of the ODCM.

8.5.7 Process Control Program Changes

Report any changes or modifications affecting significant aspects of the ODCM.

8.5.8 Corrections to Previous Reports

1.

include a brief explanation of the error(s)

2.

include a statement that the affected pages, in their entirety, are included as attachments to this ARERR

3.

ensure a copy of the affected page(s), in their entirety, are included as attachments to this ARERR. The attached pages should reference the affected calendar year and contain revision bars.

8.5.9 Other (Narrative Descriptions of Other Information Related to Radioactive Effluents)

D. IMPLEMENTATION

The purpose of this section is to provide information to applicants and licensees regarding the NRCs plans for using this regulatory guide. The NRC does not intend or approve any imposition or backfit in connection with its issuance.

Except in those cases in which an applicant or licensee proposes or has previously established an acceptable alternative method for complying with the specified portions of the NRCs regulations, the NRC staff will use the methods described in this guide in evaluating compliance with the applicable regulations.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 41 GLOSSARY

a priori Before the fact limit representing the capability of a measurement system and not as an after the fact (a posteriori ) limit for a particular measurement.

abnormal dischargeThe unplanned or uncontrolled emission of an effluent (i.e., containing plant- related, licensed radioactive material) into the unrestricted area.

abnormal releaseThe unplanned or uncontrolled emission of an effluent (i.e., containing plant-related, licensed radioactive material).

accumulated radioactivityRadioactivity from prior-year effluent releases that may still be present in the media of concern.

ALARAAs Low as Reasonably Achievable

ARERRAnnual Radioactive Effluent Release Report

AREORAnnual Radiological Environmental Operating Report

background (radiation)Means radiation from cosmic sources; naturally occurring radioactive material, including radon (except as a decay product of source or special nuclear material); and global fallout as it exists in the environment from the testing of nuclear explosive devices and from past nuclear accidents such as Chernobyl that contribute to background radiation and are not under the control of the licensee. Background radiation does not include radiation from source, byproduct, or special nuclear materials regulated by the Commission.

batch releaseThe release of liquid (radioactive) wastes of a discrete volume or the release of a tank or purge of radioactive gases into the site environs.

channel checkThe qualitative assessment of channel behavior during operation by observation. This determination shall include, where possible, comparison of the channel indication and/or status with other indications and/or status derived from independent instrument channels measuring the same parameter.

channel operational testA channel operational test shall be the injection of a simulated signal into the channel as close to the sensor as practicable to verify operability of alarm, interlock and/or trip functions. The channel operational test shall include adjustments, as necessary, of the alarm, interlock, and/or trip setpoints such that the setpoints are within the required range and accuracy.

continuous releaseAn essentially uninterrupted release of gaseous or liquid effluent for extended periods during normal operation of the facility where the volume of radioactive waste is non- discrete and there is input flow during the release.

controlled area (10 CFR 20)Means an area, outside of a restricted area but inside the site boundary, access to which is limited by the licensee for any reason.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 42 controlled area (10 CFR 72)Means that area immediately surrounding an Independent Spent Fuel Storage Installation (ISFSI) or a Monitored Retrievable Storage facility (MRS) for which the licensee exercises authority over its use and within which ISFSI or MRS operations are performed.

controlled dischargeA radioactive discharge is considered to be controlled if (1) the discharge was conducted in accordance with methods, and without exceeding any of the limits, outlined in the ODCM, or (2) if one or more of the following three items are true:

1. The radioactive discharge had an associated, pre-planned method of radioactivity monitoring that assured the discharge was properly accounted and was within the limits set by 10 CFR 20

and 10 CFR 50.

2. The radioactive discharge had an associated, pre-planned method of termination (and associated termination criteria) that assured the discharge was properly accounted and was within the limits set by 10 CFR 20 and 10 CFR 50.

3. The radioactive discharge had an associated, pre-planned method of adjusting, modulating, or altering the flow rate (or the rate of release of radioactive material) that assured the discharge was properly accounted and was within the limits set by 10 CFR 20 and 10 CFR 50.

controlled releaseA radioactive release is considered to be controlled if (1) the release was conducted in accordance with methods, and without exceeding any of the limits, outlined in the ODCM, or

(2) if one or more of the following three items are true:

1. The radioactive release had an associated, pre-planned method of radioactivity monitoring that assured the release was properly accounted and was within the limits set by 10 CFR 20 and 10

CFR 50.

2. The radioactive release has an associated, pre-planned method of termination (and associated termination criteria) that assured the release was properly accounted and was within the limits set by 10 CFR 20 and 10 CFR 50.

3. The radioactive release had an associated, pre-planned method of adjusting, modulating, or altering the flow rate (or the rate of release of radioactive material) that assured the release was properly accounted and was within the limits set by10 CFR 20 and 10 CFR 50.

conversion factorA factor (e.g., microcuries per cubic centimeter per counts per minute (Ci/cc/cpm))

used to estimate a radioactivity concentration in an effluent based on a gross radioactivity measurement (e.g., counts per minute).

D/QA dispersion parameter for estimating the dose to an individual at a specified (e.g., controlling)

location. D/Q may be described as the downwind surface or ground concentration (D) (e.g., in units of microcuries per square meter (Ci/m2)) of radioactive material at a location, divided by the release activity (Q) (e.g., in units of microcuries, Ci). D/Q is thus a normalized downwind surface concentration per unit release and can be used to determine the surface or ground radioactivity concentration during a measured effluent release. The units of D/Q are reciprocal square meters.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 43 determinationA quantitative evaluation of the release or presence of radioactive material under a specific set of conditions. A determination may be made by direct or indirect measurements (e.g., with the use of scaling factors).

dilution water (for liquid radioactive waste)For purposes of this regulatory guide, any water, other than the undiluted radioactive waste, that is mixed with undiluted liquid radioactive waste before its ultimate discharge to the unrestricted area.

discharge pointA location at which radioactive material enters the unrestricted area. This would be the point beyond the vertical plane of the unrestricted area (surface or subsurface).

DQOData Quality Objectives

drinking waterWater that does not contain an objectionable pollutant, contamination, minerals, or infective agent and is considered satisfactory for domestic consumption. This is sometimes called potable water. Potable water is water that is safe and satisfactory for drinking and cooking.

Although EPA regulations only apply to public drinking water sources supplying 25 or more people (refer to EPA for more information), for purposes of the effluent and environmental monitoring programs, the term drinking water includes water from single-use residential drinking water wells.

effluentLiquid or gaseous waste containing plant-related, licensed radioactive material, emitted at the boundary of the facility (e.g., buildings, end-of-pipe, stack, or container) as described in the final safety analysis report (FSAR).

effluent dischargeThe portion of an effluent release that reaches an unrestricted area.

effluent releaseThe emission of an effluent. (Same as radioactive release.)

elevated releaseA gaseous effluent release made from a height that is more than twice the height of adjacent solid structures, or releases made from heights sufficiently above adjacent solid structures that building wake effects are minimal or absent.

exposure pathwayA mechanism by which radioactive material is transferred from the (local)

environment to humans. There are three commonly recognized exposure pathways; inhalation, ingestion, and direct radiation. For example, ingestion is an exposure pathway, and it may include dose contributions from one or more routes of exposure. For example, one route of exposure that may contribute to the ingestion exposure pathway is often referred to as grass-cow-milk-infant- thyroid route of exposure.

ground-level releaseA gaseous effluent release made from a height that is ator less thanthe height of adjacent solid structures, or where the degree of plume rise is unknown or is otherwise insufficient to avoid building wake effects.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 44 ground waterAll water in the surface soil, the subsurface soil, or any other subsurface water. Ground water is simply water in the ground regardless of its quality, including saline, brackish, or fresh water. Ground water can be moisture in the ground that is above the regional water table in the unsaturated (or vadose) zone, or ground water can be at and below the water table in the saturated zone.

hypothetical exposure pathwayAn exposure pathway in which one or more of the components involved in the transfer of a radionuclide from the environment to the human does not actually exist at the specified location, or if a real human does not consume, inhale, or otherwise become exposed to the radioactive material. For example, the grass-cow-milk-infant-thyroid route of exposure (associated with the ingestion exposure pathway) would be considered a hypothetical exposure pathway if the grass, the cow, or the milk did not actually exist at a specified location or if an infant did not actually consume the milk.

impacted areasMeans the areas with some reasonable potential for residual radioactivity in excess of natural background or fallout levels. [Note: See 10 CFR 50.2, Definitions, and NUREG-1757 for a discussion of impacted areas. For example, impacted areas include locations where radiological leaks or spills have occurred within the onsite environs (i.e., outside of the facilitys systems, structures, and components). (See also the definition of significant contamination.)]

ISFSIIndependent Spent Fuel Storage Installation

leachateWater containing contaminants that is percolating downward from a pond or lake into the subsurface.

less-significant release pointAny location, from which radioactive material is released as a liquid or gaseous effluent, contributing less than or equal to 1 percent of the activity discharged from all the release points for a particular type of effluent considered. Regulatory Guide 1.109 lists the three types of effluent as (1) liquid effluents, (2) noble gases discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste, and (3) all other nuclides discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste.

Example: If 1000 Ci of tritium are released in all liquid effluents in a given period of time (e.g., a typical calendar year or fuel cycle) and 0.01 Ci of tritium are released in steam generator blow down, then the steam generator blow down would be a less-significant release point. Similarly, for gaseous releases of radionuclides other than noble gases (i.e., iodine, particulates, and tritium) if the total effluents are 10 Ci (iodine, particulates, and tritium) and the Refueling Water Storage Tank released 0.009 Ci of iodine, particulates, and tritium, then the Refueling Water Storage Tank would be a less-significant release point. In both of these examples the sample frequency can be adjusted to a frequency that is appropriate for that less significant release point. Samples collected from these systems for other programs (e.g., detection of primary to secondary leakage) must still be collected and analyzed at the frequencies specified by the other programs.

licensed materialMeans source material, special nuclear material, or byproduct material received, possessed, used, transferred, or disposed of under a general or specific license issued by the Commission.

lower limit of detection (LLD)The a priori smallest concentration of radioactive material in a sample that will yield a net count, above system background, that will be detected with 95% probability

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 45 with only a 5% probability of falsely concluding that a blank observation represents a real signal (see NUREG-1301, NUREG-1302, and NUREG/CR-4007, Lower Limit of Detection:

Definition and Elaboration of a Proposed Position for Radiological Effluent and Environmental Measurements, issued September 1984 (Ref.51).

maximum individualIndividuals characterized as maximum with regard to food consumption, occupancy, and other usage of the region in the vicinity of the plant site. As such, they represent individuals with habits that are considered to be maximum reasonable deviations from the average for the population in general. Additionally, in physiological or metabolic respects, the maximum exposed individuals are assumed to have those characteristics that represent the averages for their corresponding age group in the general population. (This term typically refers to members of the public). See Regulatory Guide 1.109 for additional information.)

member of the public (10 CFR 20)Means any individual except when that individual is receiving an occupational dose.

member of the public (40 CFR 190)Means any individual that can receive a radiation dose in the general environment, whether he may or may not also be exposed to radiation in an occupation associated with a nuclear fuel cycle. However, an individual is not considered a member of the public during any period in which the individual is engaged in carrying out any operation which is part of a nuclear fuel cycle.

minimum detectable concentrationThe smallest activity concentration measurement that is practically achievable with a given instrument and type of measurement procedure. It depends on factors involved in the survey measurement process (surface type, geometry, backscatter, and self- absorption) and is typically calculated following an actual sample analysis (a posteriori). (See NUREG-1507, Minimum Detectable Concentrations with Typical Radiation Survey Instruments for Various Contaminants and Field Conditions, issued June 1998 (Ref. 52)).

mixed mode releaseA gaseous effluent release made from a height higher than a ground-level release but less than an elevated release where, because of a lack of plume rise (e.g., buoyancy, momentum, and wind speed), a proper estimate of radionuclide transport and dispersion requires mathematically splitting the plume into (1) an elevated component and (2) a ground-level component to properly account for building wake effects. (See Regulatory Guide 1.111 for further guidance.)

monitoringRadiation monitoring, radiation protection monitoring means the measurement of radiation levels, concentrations, surface area concentrations or quantities of radioactive material and the use of results of these measurements to evaluate potential exposures and doses.

nonroutine, planned dischargeAn effluent release from a release point that is not defined in the ODCM but that has been planned, monitored, and discharged in accordance with 10 CFR 20.2001 (e.g., the discharge of water recovered during a spill or leak from a temporary storage tank).

nuclear fuel cycleThe operations defined to be associated with the production of electrical power for public use by any fuel cycle through the use of nuclear energy (see 40 CFR 190.02).

ODCMThe Offsite Dose Calculation Manual.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 46

on-site environsLocation within the site boundary but outside of the systems, structures, or components described in the final safety analysis report or the ODCM.

operability (operable)The ability of a system, subsystem, train, component, or device to perform its specified safety function(s) and the ability of all necessary attendant instrumentation, controls, normal or emergency electrical power, cooling and seal water, lubrication, and other auxiliary equipment (required for the system, subsystem, train, component, or device to perform its specified safety function(s)) to perform their related support function(s).

principal radionuclideA principal radionuclide is one of the principal gamma emitters listed in NUREG-1301 and NUREG-1302, Tables 4.11-1 and Table 4.11-2, or alternatively, from a risk- informed perspective, a radionuclide is considered a principal radionuclide if it contributes either

(1) greater than 1 percent of the 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I, design objective dose when all radionuclides in the type of effluent are considered, or (2) greater than 1 percent of the activity of all nuclides in the type of effluent being considered. Regulatory Guide 1.109 lists the three types of effluents as (1) liquid effluents, (2) noble gases discharged to the atmosphere, and (3) all other nuclides discharged to the atmosphere. In this document, the terms principal radionuclide and principal nuclide are synonymous since this document is only concerned with measuring, evaluating, and reporting radioactive materials in effluents.

QAQuality Assurance

QCQuality Control

radioactive dischargeThe emission of an effluent (i.e., containing plant-related, licensed radioactive material) into the unrestricted area. (Same as effluent discharge.)

radioactive releaseThe emission of an effluent (i.e., containing plant-related, licensed radioactive material). (Same as effluent release.)

real exposure pathwayAn exposure pathway in which plant-related radionuclides in the environment at (or from) a specified location cause exposure to an actual individual. For example, the grass-cow- milk-infant-thyroid exposure pathway would be considered a real exposure pathway if the grass, the cow, and the milk actually existed at a specified location and an infant actually consumed the milk. For purposes of compliance with 10CFR50 Appendix I, the individual must be a member of the public.

release sourceA system, structure, or component (containing radioactive material under the licensees control) where radioactive materials are contained prior to release.

release pointA location from which radioactive materials are released from a system, structure, or component (including evaporative releases and leaching from ponds and lakes in the controlled or restricted area before release under 10 CFR 20.2001). For release points monitored by plant process radiation monitoring systems, the release point is associated with the piping immediately downstream of the radiation monitor. (See also the definition for significant release point.)

Several release sources may contribute to a common release point.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 47 residual radioactivityResidual radioactivity means radioactivity in structures, materials, soils, ground water, and other media at a site resulting from activities under the licensees control. This includes radioactivity from all licensed and unlicensed sources used by the licensee, but it excludes background radiation. It also includes radioactive materials remaining at the site as a result of routine or accidental releases of radioactive material at the site and previous burials at the site, even if those burials were made in accordance with the provisions of 10 CFR Part 20.

restricted areaRestricted area means an area, access to which is limited by the licensee for the purpose of protecting individuals against undue risks from exposure to radiation and radioactive materials.

Restricted area does not include areas used as residential quarters, but separate rooms in a residential building may be set apart as a restricted area.

route of exposureA specific path (or delivery mechanism) by which radioactive material, originally in the environment at a specified location, can eventually cause a radiation dose to an individual.

The path typically includes a type of environmental medium (e.g., air, grass, meat, or water) as the starting point and a recipients organ or body as the end point. For example, the grass-cow-milk- infant-thyroid route of exposure may contribute to the ingestion exposure pathway. Additionally, several routes of exposure may contribute to a single exposure pathway.

scaling factorA factor used to estimate the unknown activity of a radionuclide based on its ratio to the activity of a readily measured radionuclide or other parameter (e.g., C-14 scaled to power generation).

significant contaminationAs used for 10 CFR 50.75(g) recordkeeping, a quantity and/or concentration of residual radioactivity that would require remediation during decommissioning in order to terminate the license by meeting the unrestricted use criteria stated in 10 CFR 20.1402 (see NUREG-1757).

significant release pointAny location, from which radioactive material is released, that contributes greater than 1 percent of the activity discharged from all the release points for a particular type of effluent considered. Regulatory Guide 1.109 lists the three types of effluent as (1) liquid effluents,

(2) noble gases discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste, and (3) all other radionuclides discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste.

significant residual radioactivitySynonymous with the term significant contamination.

site boundarySite boundary means that line beyond which the land or property is not owned, leased, or otherwise controlled by the licensee.

site environsLocations outside of the nuclear power plant systems, structures, or components as described in the final safety analysis report or the ODCM.

source checkA source check is a qualitative assessment of the channel response when the channel sensor is exposed to a source of increased radioactivity.

surveySurvey means an evaluation of the radiological conditions and potential hazards incident to the production, use, transfer, release, disposal, or presence of radioactive material or other sources of radiation. When appropriate, such an evaluation includes a physical survey of the location of

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 48 radioactive material and measurements or calculations of levels of radiation, or concentrations or quantities of radioactive material present.

TEDETotal Effective Dose Equivalent

type of effluentA grouping of radioactive releases into one of the three categories listed in 10 CFR 50

Appendix I, paragraphs A through C. The three categories are classified in RG 1.109 as (1) liquid effluents, (2) noble gases discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste, and (3) all other nuclides discharged to the atmosphere in gaseous radioactive waste.

unlicensed materialRadioactive material including (1) previously licensed material discharged in effluents, (2) background radioactivity, or (3) global fallout. Licensed radioactive material becomes unlicensed radioactive material upon discharge in effluents in accordance with 10 CFR

20.2001.

uncontrolled dischargeAn effluent discharge that does not meet the definition of a controlled discharge. See the definition of controlled discharge.

uncontrolled releaseAn effluent release that does not meet the definition of a controlled release. See the definition of controlled release.

unplanned dischargeThe unintended or unexpected discharge of liquid or airborne radioactive material to the unrestricted area. Examples of an unplanned discharge would include:

1.

the unintentional discharge of a wrong waste gas decay tank (or bulk liquid radioactive waste tank), or

2.

the failure of a radiation monitor to divert liquid to the radioactive waste system in the case where radioactivity is present and the automatic alarm/trip function fails to divert material to liquid radioactive waste and that material (or a portion of that material) is instead discharged to the environment.

unplanned releaseThe unintended or unexpected release of liquid or airborne radioactive material to the on-site environment. An example of an unplanned release would include a plant occurrence that results in a leak or spill of radioactive material to on-site areas requiring a report under 10

CFR 50.72 or 10 CFR 50.73. (See NUREG/CR-5569, Health Physics Positions Data Base, February, 1994, HPPOS-254, Definition of Unplanned Release, (Ref. 53).)

For example, if a licensee has prepared documents describing an intended release (e.g., a preliminary radioactive waste release permit) in advance of the evolution, and the intended release occurs as planned, then the release is a planned release. If such documents (e.g., a preliminary release permit) are not prepared (or considered/evaluated) before the release, it is potentially an unplanned release (and additional information may be required to determine if it is an unplanned release).

unrestricted areaUnrestricted area means an area, access to which is neither limited nor controlled by the licensee.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 49 uranium fuel cycleThe operations of milling of uranium ore, chemical conversion of uranium, isotopic enrichment of uranium, fabrication of uranium fuel, generation of electricity by a light-water- cooled nuclear power plant using uranium fuel, and reprocessing of spent uranium fuel, to the extent that these directly support the production of electrical power for public use utilizing nuclear energy, but excludes mining operations, operations at waste disposal sites, transportation of any radioactive material in support of these operations, and the reuse of recovered non-uranium special nuclear and byproduct materials from the cycle.

/QReferred to as Xi over Q, /Q is the average atmospheric effluent concentration, , normalized by release rate, Q, at a distance (or location) in a given downwind direction. Expressed in another way, /Q is the concentration () of airborne radioactive material (e.g., in units of Ci/m3) divided by the release rate (Q) (e.g., in units of Ci/s) at a specified distance and direction downwind of the release point.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 50

REFERENCES1

1 Publicly available NRC published documents such as Regulations, Regulatory Guides, NUREGs, and Generic Letters listed herein are available electronically through the Electronic Reading room on the NRCs public Web site at: http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/. Copies are also available for inspection or copying for a fee from the NRCs Public Document Room (PDR) at 11555 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD; the mailing address is USNRC PDR, Washington, DC 20555; telephone 301-415-4737 or

(800) 397-4209; fax (301) 415-3548; and e-mail PDR.Resource@nrc.gov.

1.

Staff Requirements for SECY-98-144, White Paper on Risk Informed and Performance-Based Regulation, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, March 1, 1999. (ADAMS

ML003753593)

2.

10 CFR Part 20, Standards for Protection against Radiation, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.

3.

10 CFR Part 50, Domestic Licensing of Production and Utilization Facilities, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.

4.

10 CFR Part 72, Licensing Requirements for the Independent Storage of Spent Nuclear Fuel, High Level Radioactive Waste, and Reactor-Related Greater Than Class C Waste, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.

5.

Regulatory Guide 1.109, Calculation of Annual Doses to Man from Routine Releases of Reactor Effluents for the Purpose of Demonstrating Compliance with 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I,

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.

6.

SECY-03-0069, Results of the License Termination Rule Analysis, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, May 2, 2003.

7.

Regulatory Guide 4.1, Programs for Monitoring Radioactivity in the Environs of Nuclear Power Plants, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.

8.

Regulatory Guide 4.15, Quality Assurance for Radiological Monitoring Programs (Inception through Normal Operations to License Termination)Effluent Streams and the Environment, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.

9.

NUREG-1301, Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Guidance: Standard Radiological Effluent Controls for Pressurized Water Reactors, April 1991. (ADAMS Accession No. ML091050061)

10.

NUREG-1302, Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Guidance: Standard Radiological Effluent Controls for Boiling Water Reactors, April 1991. (ADAMS Accession No. ML091050059)

11.

Generic Letter 89-01, Implementation of Programmatic and Procedural Controls for Radiological Effluent Technical Specifications, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC,

January 31, 1989.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 51

12.

IE Bulletin No. 80-10, Contamination of Nonradioactive System and Resulting Potential for Unmonitored, Uncontrolled Release of Radioactivity to Environment, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, May 6, 1980.

13.

NUREG-1757, Consolidated Decommissioning Guidance, September 2006.

14.

NUREG-1576, Multi-Agency Radiological Laboratory Analytical Protocols Manual, July 2004.

15.

NUREG-1022, Event Reporting Guidelines 10 CFR 50.72 and 50.73, October 2000.

16.

NUREG/BR-0308, Effective Risk Communication, January 2004.

17.

NUREG/CR-6676, Probabilistic Dose Analysis Parameter Distributions Developed for RESRAD

and RESRAD-BUILD Codes, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, July,

2000, (ADAMS Accession No. ML003741920).

18.

NUREG/CR-6692, Probabilistic Modules for the RESRAD and RESRAD-BUILD Computer Codes, November, 2000, (ADAMS Accession No. ML003774030).

19.

NUREG/CR-6697, Development of Probabilistic RESRAD 6.0 and RESRAD-BUILD 3.0

Computer Codes, December 2000, (ADAMS Accession No. ML010090284).

20.

Regulatory Guide 4.15, Quality Assurance for Radiological Monitoring Programs (Inception through Normal Operations to License Termination)Effluent Streams and the Environment, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.

21.

IAEA Technical Report Series Number 421, Management of Waste Containing Tritium and Carbon-14, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, 2004.2

22.

NUREG-0017, Calculation of Releases of Radioactive Materials in Gaseous and Liquid Effluents from Pressurized Water Reactors PWR-GALE Code, Revision 1, April 1985

23.

NCRP Report No. 81, Carbon-14 in the Environment, National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements, Bethesda, MD, January 1985.

24.

ASTM D 3370-07, Standard Practices for Sampling Water from Closed Conduits, American Society for Testing and Materials, West Conshohocken, PA, 2007.

25.

ANSI N42.18-2004, Specification and Performance of On-Site Instrumentation for Continuously Monitoring Radioactivity in Effluents, American National Standards Institute, New York, NY,

January 2004.

26.

ANSI/HPS N13.1-1999, Sampling and Monitoring Releases of Airborne Radioactive Substances from the Stacks and Ducts of Nuclear Facilities, American National Standards Institute, New York, NY, January 1999.

2 Copies of the non-NRC documents included in these references may be obtained directly from the publishing organization.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 52

27.

Regulatory Guide 1.23, Meteorological Monitoring Programs for Nuclear Power Plants, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.

28.

Regulatory Guide 1.111, Methods for Estimating Atmospheric Transport and Dispersion of Gaseous Effluents in Routine Releases from Light-Water-Cooled Reactors, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.

29.

NUREG-0133, Preparation of Radiological Effluent Technical Specifications for Nuclear Power Plants, October 1978. (ADAMS Accession No. ML091050057)

30.

Regulatory Guide 1.113, Estimating Aquatic Dispersion of Effluents from Accidental and Routine Reactor Releases for the Purpose of Implementing Appendix I, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.

31.

ANSI/ANS 2.17-2009, Evaluation of Subsurface Radionuclide Transport at Commercial Nuclear Power Production Facilities, American National Standards Institute, New York, NY (draft 2009).

32.

NUREG/CR-6948, Integrated Ground-Water Monitoring Strategy for NRC-Licensed Facilities and Sites: Logic, Strategic Approach and Discussion, November 2007.

33.

EPRI Report No. 1011730, Ground Water Monitoring Guidance for Nuclear Power Plants, Electric Power Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA, September 2005.

34.

EPRI Report No. 1015118, Ground Water Protection Guidelines for Nuclear Power Plants, Electric Power Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA, November 2007.

35.

40 CFR Part 190, Environmental Radiation Protection Standards for Nuclear Power Operations, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC.

36.

ICRP Publication 2, Report of Committee II on Permissible Dose for Internal Radiation, International Commission on Radiation Protection, Pergamon Press, Oxford, 1959

37.

Federal Register, 10 CFR 20, Final Rule, Standards for Protection Against Radiation, Volume

56, Number 98, page 23374, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, May 21,

1991. (ADAMS Accession No. ML091050050)

38.

Federal Register, 40 CFR 190, Environmental Radiation Protection Standards for Nuclear Power Operations, Volume 42, Number 9, page 2859, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, January 13, 1977.

39.

NUREG-0543, Methods for Demonstrating Compliance with the EPA Uranium Fuel Cycle Standard (40 CFR Part 190), February, 1980, (ADAMS Accession No. ML081360410)

40.

M. Maiello, The Variations in Long Term TLD Measurements of Environmental Background Radiation at Locations in Southeastern New York State and Southern New Jersey, Health Physics, Volume 72, Number 6, June 1997, pp. 915-922.

41.

ANSI N545-1975, Performance Testing and Procedural Specifications for Thermoluminescence Dosimetry (Environmental Applications), American National Standards Institute, 1975.

Rev. 2 of RG 1.21, Page 53

42.

ANSI/HPS N13.11-2009, American National Standard for Dosimetry Personnel Dosimetry Performance Criteria for Testing, American National Standard, January 13, 2009.

43.

Regulatory Guides 1.111, Calculation of Releases of Radioactive Materials in Gaseous and Liquid Effluents from Light-Water-Cooled Power Reactors, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, April, 1976.

44.

WASH-1258, Final Environmental Statement Concerning Proposed Rule Making Action:

Numerical Guides for Design Objectives and Limiting Conditions for Operation To Meet the Criterion As Low As Practical for Radioactive Material in Light-Water-Cooled Power Reactor Effluents, July, 1973.

45.

BNWL-1754, Models and Computer Codes for Evaluating Environmental Radiation Doses, February, 1974.

46.

ICRP Publication 60, ICRP Publication 60: 1990 Recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection, 60, Annals of the ICRP Volume 21/1-3, International Commission on Radiation Protection, October, 1991.

47.

Federal Guidance Report Number 11, Limiting Values of Radionuclide Intake and Air Concentration and Dose Conversion factors for Inhalation, Submersion, and Ingestion, Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Environmental Protection Agency, 1988.

48.

ASTM E-29, Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications, American Society for Testing and Materials International, DOI: 10.1520/E0029-

08.

49.

NUREG/CR-5569, Health Physics Positions Data Base, HPPOS-099, Attention to Liquid Dilution Volumes in Semiannual Radioactive Effluent Release Reports, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, November 1984.

50.

NEI 07-07, Industry Ground Water Protection InitiativeFinal Guidance Document, Nuclear Energy Institute, Washington, DC, August 2007. (ADAMS Accession No. ML072610036)

51.

NUREG/CR-4007, Lower Limit of Detection: Definition and Elaboration of a Proposed Position for Radiological Effluent and Environmental Measurements, September 1984.

52.

NUREG-1507, Minimum Detectable Concentrations with Typical Radiation Survey Instruments for Various Contaminants and Field Conditions, June 1998.

53.

NUREG/CR-5569, Health Physics Positions Data Base, HPPOS-254, Definition of Unplanned Release, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, February, 1994.

54.

NUREG/CR-6805, A Comprehensive Strategy of Hydrogeology Modeling and Uncertainty Analysis For Nuclear Facilities and Sites, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC, July, 2003.

Rev. 2 of RG-1.21, Page 54

BIBLIOGRAPHY

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Documents

NUREG-Series Reports NUREG-0800, Standard Review Plan for the Review of Safety Analysis Reports for Nuclear Power Plants, March 2007 (Section 2.3.5).

NUREG-0324, XOQDOQ, Program for the Meteorological Evaluation of Routine Effluent Releases at Nuclear Power Stations, September 1977.

NUREG/CR-2919, XOQDOQ Computer Program for the Meteorological Evaluation of Routine Effluent Releases at Nuclear Power Stations, September, 1982

Regulatory Guides Regulatory Guide 1.143, Design Guidance for Radioactive Waste Management Systems, Structures, and Components Installed in Light-Water-Cooled Nuclear Power Plants, Revision 2, November 2001.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Documents

40 CFR Part 141, National Primary Drinking Water Regulations, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC.

National Standards ANSI N13.30-1996, Performance Criteria for Radiobioassay, American National Standards Institute, New York, NY, May, 1996.

ANSI/ANS 3.11-2005, Determining Meteorological Information at Nuclear Facilities, American National Standards Institute, New York, NY, January 2005.

ANSI N42.14-1999, Calibration and Use of Germanium Spectrometers for the Measurement of Gamma- Ray Emission Rates of Radionuclides, American National Standards Institute, New York, NY, May 1999.

ANSI/NCSL Z540-2-1997 (reapproved 2002), American National Standard for Expressing Uncertainty--

U.S. Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement, American National Standards Institute, New York, NY, January 1997.

NIST Technical Note 1297, Guidelines for Evaluating and Expressing the Uncertainty of NIST

Measurement Results, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, September

1994.

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-1 APPENDIX A - TABLES

Table A-1. Gaseous EffluentsSummation of All Releases Summation of All Releases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Uncertainty Fission and Activation Gases Ci

Average Release Rate Ci/s

% of Limit

%

Iodines (Halogens)

Ci

Average Release Rate Ci/s

% of Limit

%

Particulates Ci

Average Release Rate Ci/s

% of Limit

%

Tritium Ci

Average Release Rate Ci/s

% of Limit

%

Gross Alpha Ci

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-2 Table A-1A. Gaseous EffluentsGround-Level ReleaseBatch Mode Fission and Activation Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Ar-41 Ci

Kr-85 Ci

Kr-85m Ci

Kr-87 Ci

Kr-88 Ci

Xe-131m Ci

Xe-133 Ci

Xe-133m Ci

Xe-135 Ci

Xe-135m Ci

Xe-138 Ci

(List Others)

Ci

Total Ci

Iodines/Halogens Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total I-131 Ci

I-132 Ci

I-133 Ci

I-134 Ci

I-135 Ci

Total Ci

Particulates Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Co-58 Ci

Co-60

Ci

Sr-89 Ci

Sr-90

Ci

Cs-134 Ci

(List Others)

Ci

Total Ci

Tritium Ci

Gross Alpha Ci

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-3 Table A-1B. Gaseous EffluentsGround-Level ReleaseContinuous Mode Fission and Activation Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Ar-41 Ci

Kr-85 Ci

Kr-85m Ci

Kr-87 Ci

Kr-88 Ci

Xe-131m Ci

Xe-133 Ci

Xe-133m Ci

Xe-135 Ci

Xe-135m Ci

Xe-138 Ci

(List Others)

Total Ci

Iodines/Halogens Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total I-131 Ci

I-132 Ci

I-133 Ci

I-134 Ci

I-135 Ci

Total Ci

Particulates Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Co-58 Ci

Co-60

Ci

Sr-89 Ci

Sr-90

Ci

Cs-134 Ci

(List Others)

Ci

Total Ci

Tritium Ci

Gross Alpha Ci

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-4 Table A-1C. Gaseous EffluentsElevated ReleaseBatch Mode Fission and Activation Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Ar-41 Ci

Kr-85 Ci

Kr-85m Ci

Kr-87 Ci

Kr-88 Ci

Xe-131m Ci

Xe-133 Ci

Xe-133m Ci

Xe-135 Ci

Xe-135m Ci

Xe-138 Ci

(List Others)

Ci

Total Ci

Iodines/Halogens Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total I-131 Ci

I-132 Ci

I-133 Ci

I-134 Ci

I-135 Ci

Total Ci

Particulates Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Co-58 Ci

Co-60

Ci

Sr-89 Ci

Sr-90

Ci

Cs-134 Ci

(List Others)

Ci

Total Ci

Tritium Ci

Gross Alpha Ci

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-5 Table A-1D. Gaseous EffluentsElevated ReleaseContinuous Mode Fission and Activation Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Ar-41 Ci

Kr-85 Ci

Kr-85m Ci

Kr-87 Ci

Kr-88 Ci

Xe-131m Ci

Xe-133 Ci

Xe-133m Ci

Xe-135 Ci

Xe-135m Ci

Xe-138 Ci

(List Others)

Ci

Total Ci

Iodines/Halogens Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total I-131 Ci

I-132 Ci

I-133 Ci

I-134 Ci

I-135 Ci

Total Ci

Particulates Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Co-58 Ci

Co-60

Ci

Sr-89 Ci

Sr-90

Ci

Cs-134 Ci

(List Others)

Ci

Total Ci

Tritium Ci

Gross Alpha Ci

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-6 Table A-1E. Gaseous EffluentsMixed Mode ReleaseBatch Mode Fission and Activation Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Ar-41 Ci

Kr-85 Ci

Kr-85m Ci

Kr-87 Ci

Kr-88 Ci

Xe-131m Ci

Xe-133 Ci

Xe-133m Ci

Xe-135 Ci

Xe-135m Ci

Xe-138 Ci

(List Others)

Ci

Total Ci

Iodines/Halogens Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total I-131 Ci

I-132 Ci

I-133 Ci

I-134 Ci

I-135 Ci

Total Ci

Particulates Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Co-58 Ci

Co-60

Ci

Sr-89 Ci

Sr-90

Ci

Cs-134 Ci

(List Others)

Ci

Total Ci

Tritium Ci

Gross Alpha Ci

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-7 Table A-1F. Gaseous EffluentsMixed Mode ReleaseContinuous Mode Fission and Activation Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Ar-41 Ci

Kr-85 Ci

Kr-85m Ci

Kr-87 Ci

Kr-88 Ci

Xe-131m Ci

Xe-133 Ci

Xe-133m Ci

Xe-135 Ci

Xe-135m Ci

Xe-138 Ci

(List Others)

Ci

Total Ci

Iodines/Halogens Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total I-131 Ci

I-132 Ci

I-133 Ci

I-134 Ci

I-135 Ci

Total Ci

Particulates Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Co-58 Ci

Co-60

Ci

Sr-89 Ci

Sr-90

Ci

Cs-134 Ci

(List Others)

Ci

Total Ci

Tritium Ci

Gross Alpha Ci

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-8 Table A-2. Liquid EffluentsSummation of All Releases Summation of All Liquid Releases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Uncertainty

(%)

Fission and Activation Products (excluding tritium, gases, and gross alpha)

Ci

Average Concentration Ci/ml

% of Limit

%

Tritium Ci

Average Concentration Ci/ml

% of Limit

%

Dissolved and Entrained Gases Ci

Average Concentration Ci/ml

% of Limit

%

Gross Alpha Ci

Average Concentration Ci/ml

Volume of Primary System Liquid Effluent (Before Dilution)

Liters

Dilution Water Used for Above Liters

Volume of Secondary or Balance-of-Plant Liquid Effluent (e.g., low-activity or unprocessed)

(Before Dilution)

Liters

Dilution Water Used for Above Liters

Average Stream Flow m3/s

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-9 Table A-2A. Liquid EffluentsBatch Mode Fission and Activation Products Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Cr-51 Ci

Mn-54 Ci

Fe-55 Ci

Fe-59 Ci

Co-57 Ci

Co-58 Ci

Co-60

Ci

Sr-89 Ci

Sr-90

Ci

Nb-95 Ci

Ag-110m Ci

Sn-113 Ci

Sb-124 Ci

Sb-125 Ci

I-131 Ci

I-133 Ci

I-135 Ci

Cs-134 Ci

Cs-137 Ci

(List Others)

Ci

Totals Ci

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-10

Table A-2A. Liquid EffluentsBatch Mode (continued)

Dissolved and Entrained Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Kr-85 Ci

Kr-85m Ci

Kr-88 Ci

Xe-131m Ci

Xe-133 Ci

Xe-133m Ci

Xe-135 Ci

Xe-135m Ci

(List Others)

Ci

Totals Ci

Tritium Ci

Gross Alpha Ci

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-11 Table A-2B. Liquid EffluentsContinuous Mode Fission and Activation Products Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Cr-51 Ci

Mn-54 Ci

Fe-55 Ci

Fe-59 Ci

Co-57 Ci

Co-58 Ci

Co-60

Ci

Sr-89 Ci

Sr-90

Ci

Nb-95 Ci

Ag-110m Ci

Sn-113 Ci

Sb-124 Ci

Sb-125 Ci

I-131 Ci

I-133 Ci

I-135 Ci

Cs-134 Ci

Cs-137 Ci

(List Others)

Ci

Totals Ci

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-12 Table A-2B. Liquid EffluentsContinuous Mode (continued)

Dissolved and Entrained Gases Units Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Total Kr-85 Ci

Kr-85m Ci

Kr-88 Ci

Xe-131m Ci

Xe-133 Ci

Xe-133m Ci

Xe-135 Ci

Xe-135m Ci

(List Others)

Ci

Totals Ci

Tritium Ci

Gross Alpha Ci

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-13 Table A-3. Low-Level Waste Resins, Filters, and Evaporator Bottoms Volume Curies Shipped Waste Class ft3 m3 Curies A

B

C

ALL

Major Nuclides for the Above Table:

Dry Active Waste Volume Curies Shipped Waste Class ft3 m3

A

B

C

ALL

Major Nuclides for the Above Table:

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-14 Table A-3. Low-Level Waste (continued)

Irradiated Components Volume Curies Shipped Waste Class ft3 m3

A

B

C

ALL

Major Nuclides for the Above Table:

Other Waste Volume Curies Shipped WASTE

CLASS

ft3 m3

A

B

C

ALL

Major Nuclides for the Above Table:

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-15 Table A-3. Low-Level Waste (continued)

Sum of All Low-Level Waste Shipped from Site Volume Curies Shipped Waste Class ft3 m3

A

B

C

ALL

Major Nuclides for the Above Table:

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-16

Table A-4. Dose Assessments, 10 CFR Part 50, Appendix I

Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Quarter 3 Quarter 4 Yearly Liquid Effluent Dose Limit, Total Body

1.5 mrem

1.5 mrem

1.5 mrem

1.5 mrem

3 mrem Total Body Dose

% of Limit

Liquid Effluent Dose Limit, Any Organ

5 mrem

5 mrem

5 mrem

5 mrem

10 mrem Organ Dose

% of Limit

Gaseous Effluent Dose Limit, Gamma Air

5 mrad

5 mrad

5 mrad

5 mrad

10 mrad Gamma Air Dose

% of Limit

Gaseous Effluent Dose Limit, Beta Air

10 mrad

10 mrad

10 mrad

10 mrad

20 mrad Beta Air Dose

% of Limit

Gaseous Effluent Dose Limit, Any Organ (Iodine, Tritium, Particulates with >8-day half-life)

7.5 mrem

7.5 mrem

7.5 mrem

7.5 mrem

15 mrem Gaseous Effluent Organ Dose (Iodine, Tritium, Particulates with > 8-Day half-life)

% of Limit

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-17 Table A-5. EPA 40 CFR Part 190 Individual in the Unrestricted Area

Whole Body Thyroid Any other organ Dose Limit

25 mrem

75 mrem

25 mrem Dose

% of Limit

Appendix A to RG 1.21, Page A-18 Table A-6. Supplemental Information

1.

Abnormal Releases and Abnormal Discharges (e.g., leaks and spills)

2.

Non routine, Planned Discharges (e.g., pumping of leaks and spills for remediation, results of ground water monitoring to quantify effluent releases to the offsite environment)

3.

Radioactive Waste Treatment System Changes

4.

Annual Land-Use Census Changes

5.

Effluent Monitor Instrument Inoperability

6.

Offsite Dose Calculation Manual Changes

7.

Process Control Program Changes

8.

Errata/Corrections to Previous ARERRs

9.

Other (narrative description of other information that is provided to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, e.g., the ARERR for ISFSIs)