The new nuclear imperative: A hazards planning process for the urban transportation of spent nuclear fuel

This study proposes a planning model for local governments to use when preparing to mitigate the effects of high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel (collectively abbreviated as HLW) transportation. Specifically examining the case of Clark County, Nevada---one of the potentially most affected areas of the country---the proposed assessment model is applied in terms of cost and equity analysis to the problem of hazard mitigation planning and to the routine effects of the truck transportation of high-level radioactive waste to Yucca Mountain. Calculating radiological doses using RISKIND software and comparing these to the public and occupational standards established by the International Committee on Radiological Protection, this study evaluates nine potential mitigation procedures. This study finds that the least costly mitigation measures may provide the greatest reduction in radiation, but help the fewest number of people. Furthermore, this study concludes that mitigation measures that reduce the time in transit are the most desirable. Results of the study confirm that cost analysis of hazard mitigation alternatives is possible and that a cost effectiveness approach can be useful. Directions for additional research are also identified, including multi-hazard cost comparison and improvements in data available for equity calculations.