Development and use of statistical survey criteria for release of materials at a former uranium processing facility

To minimize the amount of waste and to recover reusable resources during demolition of radioactively contaminated facilities, building construction material and equipment can be efficiently and successfully surveyed using statistical methods described in this article. A radioactive contamination survey strategy aimed at reducing survey technician labor while still providing assurance that only uncontaminated material is released for salvage is discussed. Provided is the survey method, rationale, and results of three case studies where this method was successfully employed at a former uranium processing facility.