This is a brief description of studies that exemplify the methods and approaches that have been developed and used by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) researchers in conducting integrated assessments. See the complete list of Integrated Assessment Briefs to find out more about ORNL's efforts in integrated assessment. Contact Mike Farrell (farrellmp@ornl.gov) for more information.

Risk Assessment for Pre- and Post-Remediation of Uranium Mill Tailings

A comparison of dose rates per property is shown for pre- and post-remedial action in Monticello, Utah.

Does remediation of uranium mill tailings contaminated-properties reduce the risk to residents of those properties?

Pre-and post-remedial action dose rates were calculated for 101 Monticello, Utah, properties included in the Monticello Vicinity Remedial Action Project. Dose rates were calculated using the RESRAD computer code. This calculation indicated that 98% of the effective dose equivalent was contributed by external gamma and radon emanation. Radium concentrations were averaged for pre- and post-remedial action measurements. The volume of the deposit was also used in the dose calculations. In all cases the dose was reduced below 1 mSv y-1 (100 mrem y-1). At 77% of the properties it was reduced below the Department of Energy's ALARA recommendation ( 0.30 mSv y-1).

Pre- and post-remedial dose rates were compared with a paired t-test, which showed a significant difference (reduction) (p < 0.05) in dose rates. The average cost of remedial action, number of persons per household, number of properties remediated, and the reduction of cancer mortality risk through remediation resulted in a cost of $5 million per life saved.

Bengtsson, G., and L. Moberg. 1993. What is a reasonable cost for protection against radiation and other risks? Health Physics 64(6):661-666.

Eger, K. J. 1994. What is the value of human life? Health Physics Newsletter 22(9):8.

Espegren, M. L., G. A. Pierce, and D. K. Halford. 1994. Comparison of risk for pre- and post remediation of uranium mill tailings from vicinity properties in Monticello, Utah. Health Physics (in press).

Where To?

[ Table of Contents for ORNL Integrated Assessment Briefs ]

Integrated Assessment Briefs. 1995. ORNL/M-4227. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN.