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Relics

The term "legacy" in connection with enhanced natural radioactivity was defined in 2017 in the Radiation Protection Law. According to this it is a contaminated area as a result of a terminated human activity which can cause an unacceptable radiation exposure. In general, the term "relic" is used here. An overview on the problem and the categories of relics from mining, industry and uranium ore mining is given below. More detailed information can be found on the Expert Info pages.

Waste Rock pile (recultivated) (Picture has long description)

Human influence on natural environmental radioactivity

The radionuclides of the uranium-238, uranium-235 and thorium-232 decay chains are distributed throughout the earth’s crust. They are the main source for the natural radiation exposure. Higher concentrations of these radionuclides (in comparison to the geogenic level) can be released into the environment particularly through mining activities but also through the processing of raw materials. While radiation protection is ensured from the start for industrial residues on the basis of the Radiation Protection Ordinance (StrlSchV), subsequent measures can only be taken to address contamination that has already occurred.

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Specialist information ("Fachinfothek")

The "Fachinfothek" (compilation of technical information) is a compilation of in-depth information on the topic "Enhanced natural environmental radioactivity by human impact". The major part of the information can be downloaded. Links enable access to further information from other sources, for whose accuracy BfS does not assume responsibility, however.

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Legacies

Residues with enhanced natural radioactivity have arisen from mining or industrial activities over centuries and most of them were deposited on waste rock piles or in tailings ponds. Radiation protection aspects were not taken into account. Depending on the site and usage conditions, enhanced internal and/or external radiation exposures may require subsequent radiation protection measures for members of the public. The following articles will give an overview of the dimension of these relics in Germany.

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