Six methods to assess potential radioactive air emissions from a stack.

Abstract

In accordance with U.S. Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 61, "National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants," Subpart H, U.S. Department of Energy stack emissions which have the potential to cause an exposure > or = 1 muSv y-1 to the offsite maximally exposed individual must meet the continuous monitoring requirements dictated therein. Since February 1993, all 125 stacks operated by the Westinghouse Hanford Company on the U.S. Department of Energy's Hanford Site have been assessed for their potential unabated radionuclide emissions using one of six methods approved for use by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 10. These potential emissions combined with the CAP88 code were used to produce dose estimates to the maximally exposed individual. Results show there are 106 stacks in compliance and below the potential to emit greater than the EPA threshold. The 19 remaining stacks will be brought into full compliance under a Federal Facilities Compliance Agreement which was established in February, 1994. While each method maintains the safety and protection of the occupational worker, the public, and the environment, significant cost benefits may be derived by applying the best available technology. The CAP88 code and the methods for estimating potential emissions are presented, as well as the associated results.