Frequently Asked Questions about the CNSC’s role in the NWMO’s APM Project
Q1. What are the CNSC’s responsibilities with respect to the transportation of used nuclear fuel?
Q2. What if a community wants to know more about the CNSC’s role in the NWMO’s APM project?
Q3. What kind of independent research does the CNSC conduct on geological repositories?
Q4. Where can I get more information about radioactive waste and how it is managed in Canada?
Q5. What is the current status of the NWMO’s APM project for a deep geological repository?
Q1. What are the CNSC’s responsibilities with respect to the transportation of used nuclear fuel?
A1. The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) regulates the packaging and transport of nuclear substances in Canada in cooperation with Transport Canada. The transport of nuclear substances, including used nuclear fuel, must comply with the applicable transport regulations for the entire journey of a shipment, from its initial packaging to arrival at its destination.
For additional information, read the Frequently Asked Questions About Transporting Nuclear Substances and the Fact Sheet on Regulating the Packaging and Transport of Nuclear Substances in Canada.
Q2. What if a community wants to know more about the CNSC’s role in the NWMO’s APM project?
A2. The CNSC has agreed to meet with communities interested in learning more about its role in the Nuclear Waste Management Organization’s (NWMO) Adaptive Phased Management (APM) project. Communities can also request that CNSC staff visit them to provide information and answer technical and scientific questions. Please contact info@cnsc-ccsn.gc.ca or call 1-800-668-5284 for more information.
Q3. What kind of independent research does the CNSC conduct on geological repositories?
A3. Since 1978, the CNSC has been involved in independent research and assessment, including international collaboration, on the safe management of used nuclear fuel in geological repositories. In particular, these activities looked at the Canadian Shield’s granitic rock as suitable rock formation for this type of repository.
To provide sufficient independent knowledge for assessing future proposals involving geological repositories, the CNSC is expanding its technical expertise from granitic rock to include knowledge and understanding of geological disposal in sedimentary rock.
The CNSC is conducting a three-year program to evaluate long-term (up to a million years) safety issues related to the long-term management of radioactive waste and used nuclear fuel in sedimentary rock. This program consists of independent scientific research conducted by CNSC staff in collaboration with national and international institutions. It also includes monitoring and review of state-of-the-art scientific advancements, and participation in international forums to exchange information and knowledge related to geological repositories.
Q4. Where can I get more information about radioactive waste and how it is managed in Canada?
A4. Find out more about radioactive waste, including how it is classified and managed, by reading the CNSC’s Web pages on Managing Canada’s Radioactive Waste.
Q5. What is the current status of the NWMO’s APM project for a deep geological repository?
A5. Find out more about the NWMO’s APM project and its current status by visiting the NWMO Web site.