Managing Environmental and Health Impacts of Uranium Mining
Uranium mining and milling has evolved significantly over the years. By comparing
currently leading approaches with outdated practices, this report demonstrates how
uranium mining can be conducted in a way that protects workers, the public and the
environment. Innovative, modern mining practices combined with strictly enforced regulatory
standards are geared towards avoiding past mistakes committed primarily during the
early history of the industry when maximising uranium production was the principal
operating consideration. Today’s leading practices in uranium mining aim at producing
uranium in an efficient and safe manner that limits environmental impacts to acceptable
standards. As indicated in this report, the collection of baseline environmental data,
environmental monitoring and public consultation throughout the life cycle of the
mine enables verification that the facility is operating as planned, provides early
warning of any potentially adverse impacts on the environment and keeps stakeholders
informed of developments. Leading practice also supports planning for mine closure
before mine production is licensed to ensure that the mining lease area is returned
to an environmentally acceptable condition. The report highlights the importance of
mine workers being properly trained and well equipped, as well as that of ensuring
that their work environment is well ventilated so as to curtail exposure to radiation
and hazardous materials and thereby minimise health impacts.
Published on June 20, 2014
In series:Nuclear Developmentview more titles