RD&D-Programme 2004 - SKB

12 Deep repository – monitoring
SKB defines monitoring as “continuous or repeated observations or measurements of parameters
to obtain a better scientific understanding of the site and the repository, to show compliance
with requirements, or to adapt plans to the results”. This definition covers monitoring
programmes and surveillance, including observations to verify nuclear material supervision
(safeguards) in the deep repository. SKB’s definition of monitoring does not include single
measurements or observations, and it is understood that the observations are repeated in the
same points or areas.
Monitoring during the stepwise implementation of the deep repository has several purposes, but
mainly to:
• Establish a primary baseline for the repository site.
• Develop and demonstrate an understanding of the repository site and the performance of the
barriers.
• Provide data as a basis for the decision process.
• Show that requirements stipulated in international and national guidelines are met.
Specific rationales for monitoring are to:
• Obtain knowledge of undisturbed conditions in nature and their seasonal variations
(baseline) in order to identify and evaluate the impact that the deep repository has during
different phases.
• Obtain a better understanding of the function of the deep repository system to support the
safety account and to test models and assumptions.
• Monitor the environmental impact of the repository.
• Provide evidence that the working environment is safe with regard to radiological and
non-radiological effects.
• Show that requirements on safeguards are met.
12.1 Monitoring
Conclusions in RD&D 2001 and its review
In RD&D 2001, SKB identified a need to establish a policy for monitoring, and the possible
need for continuous and periodic observations and measurements was preliminary listed. SKB
also described the need to establish a monitoring programme for environmental impact and
radiological control.
Newfound knowledge since RD&D 2001
As a result of RD&D 2001, SKB initiated a monitoring project for the deep repository and a
framework has been established for such monitoring /12-1/.
The project included a review of definitions and nomenclature used and an international overview
of the field. A presentation of SKB’s previous experience of monitoring is also included.
SKB’s participation in the EU project “Thematic Network on the Role of Monitoring in a
Phased Approach to Disposal” /12-2/ has been an important part of the project. The Thematic
Network was started to obtain a better understanding of the role that can be played by monitoring
and what monitoring alternatives are available. Within the Thematic Network, the contribution
of monitoring to the decision process and safety during the operating and post-closure
phases and its importance for confidence in this safety has been discussed.
RD&D-Programme 2004 139