Adapting MARSSIM for FUSRAP site closure

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Radiological Engineering
• Site Remediation

Background:

• The Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation Manual (MARSSIM) establishes standards for radiological site cleanup.
• Many contaminated sites present unique challenges that hinder direct MARSSIM application.
• These challenges include non-compliant cleanup requirements, subsurface contamination, and data gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the complexities of applying MARSSIM at the FUSRAP Linde site.
• To describe how MARSSIM protocols were adapted to address site-specific challenges.
• To provide insights for radiological site remediation and closure.

Main Methods:

• Case study analysis of the FUSRAP Linde site in Tonawanda, New York.
• Examination of closure issues encountered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Buffalo District.
• Evaluation of MARSSIM protocol adaptations for radiological site closure.

Main Results:

• The Linde site presented significant challenges to standard MARSSIM implementation.
• Adaptations to MARSSIM protocols were necessary to address ROD requirements, subsurface contamination, and data uncertainties.
• Successful remediation and closure strategies were developed through protocol modification.

Conclusions:

• Direct application of MARSSIM is often infeasible for complex radiological sites.
• Adaptive management and protocol adjustments are crucial for effective site remediation.
• The Linde site case study demonstrates a viable approach to overcoming MARSSIM limitations in radiological closure.