DOE M 460.2-1A, Radioactive Material Transportation Practices Manual
Functional areas: Hazardous Materials, Packaging and Transportation, Safety and Security
This Manual establishes standard transportation practices for the Department of Energy, including National Nuclear Security Administration to use in planning and executing offsite shipments of radioactive materials and waste. The revision reflects ongoing collaboration of DOE and outside organizations on the transportation of radioactive material and waste.
Supersedes DOE M 460.2-1.
Version history and related documents
Superseded by
A newer version replaces this document.
- DOE O 460.2CDepartmental Materials Transportation Management (Aug 05, 2026)
Supersedes
Earlier documents this one replaced.
- DOE M 460.2-1Radioactive Material Transportation Practices (Jun 04, 2008)
Related documents
Document text
Text extracted from the attached file. Refer to the original document for the authoritative version.
Section 1
MANUAL
DOE M 460.2-1A
Approved: 6-4-08
RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL
TRANSPORTATION PRACTICES MANUAL
for Use with DOE O 460.2A
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
Office of Environmental Management
AVAILABLE ONLINE AT: INITIATED BY:
www.directives.doe.gov Office of Environmental Management
http:www.directives.doe.gov
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RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL TRANSPORTATION PRACTICES MANUAL
1. PURPOSE. This Manual establishes a set of standard transportation practices for U.S.
Department of Energy (DOE), including National Nuclear Security Administration
(NNSA) organizations to use in planning and executing offsite shipments of radioactive
materials including radioactive waste.
2. CANCELLATION. DOE M 460.2-1, Radioactive Material Transportation Practices
Manual for Use with DOE O 460.2A, dated 9-23-02. Cancellation of a directive does not,
by itself, modify or otherwise affect any contractual obligation to comply with the
directive. Contractor requirement documents (CRDs) that have been incorporated into or
attached to a contract remain in effect until the contract is modified to either eliminate
requirements that are no longer applicable or substitute a new set of requirements.
3. APPLICABILITY.
a. DOE Elements. Except for the exclusions in paragraph 3c, this Manual applies to
all Departmental elements responsible for transporting radioactive materials. Go
to http://www.directives.doe.gov/pdfs/reftools/org-list.pdf for the current listing
of Departmental elements. This list automatically includes all Departmental
elements created after the Order is issued.
Consistent with the responsibilities identified in Executive Order 12344, the
Deputy Administrator, Naval Reactors, will determine the applicability of this
Manual for activities and facilities under his control. Transuranic waste
shipments to the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) or a consolidated certification
facility and national security shipments of spent nuclear fuel under the cognizance
of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program (NNPP) will be made in accordance
with this Manual.
The Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) will
assure that NNSA employees and contractors meet their respective
responsibilities under this Manual. Nothing in this Manual will be construed to
interfere with the NNSA Administrator’s authority under section 3212(d) of
Public Law (P.L.) 106-65 to establish Administration specific policies, unless
disapproved by the Secretary.
b. DOE Contractors. Except for the exclusions in paragraph 3c, the CRD
(Attachment 1) sets forth requirements for contractors who transport and/or offer
radioactive materials/wastes for transport. The CRD will apply to the extent set
forth in each contract.
c. Exclusions. Office of the Secretary, Office of the Chief Financial Officer, Office
of the Chief Information Officer, Office of Congressional and Intergovernmental
Affairs, Office of Economic Impact and Diversity, Office of Electricity Delivery
and Energy Reliability, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy,
https://www.directives.doe.gov/references/DOEDepartmentalElements.pdf
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Energy Information Administration, Office of Fossil Energy, Office of the
General Counsel, Office of Hearings and Appeals, Office of Human Capital
Management, Office of Intelligence and Counterintelligence, Office of Legacy
Management, Office of Management, Office of Policy and International Affairs,
Office of Public Affairs, Office of Inspector General, Bonneville Power
Administration, Southeastern Power Administration, Southwestern Power
Administration, Western Area Power Administration.
Section 2
4. SUMMARY. This Manual is composed of 14 transportation practices that establish a
standardized process and framework for interacting with State, Tribal, and local
authorities, other Federal agencies, and transportation contractors and carriers regarding
DOE radioactive material shipments. The practices described in this Manual have been
divided by mode (truck or rail) and by material type [classified versus non-classified,
spent nuclear fuel (SNF), transuranic (TRU) waste, low level waste (LLW), etc.]. For
some topics, such as emergency notification, a common approach can be applied to all
modes and material types so such divisions were not necessary. For other topics, different
approaches are applied to different modes and materials. Practices are described for the
following topics:
• Transportation Planning—the transportation planning activities that take place after
the need for shipment has been identified;
• Emergency Planning—DOE emergency planning activities with State and Tribal
jurisdictions;
• Projected Shipment Planning Information—provision of information regarding
projected shipments;
• Routing—practices to identify and select transportation routes;
• Security—actions taken to ensure the security of shipments;
• Carrier/Driver Requirements—practices to ensure that shipments use high quality
carriers and drivers;
• Shipment Prenotification—near term notification activities for pending shipments;
• Transportation Operational Contingencies—operational contingencies that may
interrupt normal transport operations;
• Tracking—DOE practices for tracking the location of shipments and facilitating
communication with the drivers/crew of the vehicles;
• Inspections—inspections of shipments, including both verifications of vehicle
roadworthiness and radiological condition of containers loaded on the vehicles;
DOE M 460.2-1A iii (and iv)
6-4-08
• Safe Parking—the criteria to be used in selecting appropriate parking locations in the
event that transportation operational contingencies occur;
• Emergency Notification—the process DOE uses to notify State and Tribal officials,
after DOE itself has received notification, of a transportation emergency;
• Emergency Response—DOE response to a transportation emergency;
• Recovery and Cleanup—post emergency actions taken to recover and cleanup from
an accident or incident.
These topics have been arranged as one would generally address them in planning and
conducting shipments. Following the 14 topics are a glossary of terms (Attachment 2)
and a list of acronyms (Attachment 3).
The practices in this Manual will be updated to cover programmatic changes and
additional modes and materials as needed to support shipping programs. The practices
also will be updated periodically to incorporate improvements and “lessons learned”
from their application.
5. REFERENCES.
a. Department of Transportation regulations in Title 49 of the Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR);
b. Nuclear Regulatory Commission regulations in Title 10 of the CFR;
c. DOE O 460.1B, Packaging and Transportation Safety, dated 4-4-03;
d. DOE O 460.2A, Departmental Materials Transportation and Packaging
Management, dated 12-22-04; and
e. DOE O 470.4A, Safeguards and Security Program, dated 5-25-07.
6. CONTACT. Questions concerning this Manual should be addressed to the Office of
Transportation, EM-63, 301-903-7284.
BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF ENERGY:
JEFFREY F. KUPFER
Acting Deputy Secretary
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Section 3
CONTENTS
1. TRANSPORTATION PRACTICES ...................................................................................1
1.1 Introduction..............................................................................................................1
1.2 Background on DOE shipments...............................................................................1
1.3 Requirements ...........................................................................................................2
1.4 Shipments Covered by this Manual .........................................................................2
2. TRANSPORTATION PLANNING ....................................................................................5
2.1 Introduction..............................................................................................................5
2.2 Material Characterization and Classification...........................................................5
2.3 Identification of Programmatic Needs and Applicable Requirements ....................5
2.4 Packaging Selection.................................................................................................5
2.5 Mode and Carrier Selection .....................................................................................6
2.6 Transportation Plans ................................................................................................7
2.7 Communication Plans ..............................................................................................8
3. EMERGENCY PLANNING .............................................................................................10
3.1 Introduction............................................................................................................10
3.2 Emergency Planning ..............................................................................................10
3.3 Training..................................................................................................................12
4. PROJECTED SHIPMENT PLANNING INFORMATION..............................................14
4.1 Introduction............................................................................................................14
4.2 Planning Information .............................................................................................14
5. ROUTING ....................................................................................................................17
5.1 Introduction............................................................................................................17
5.2 Highway Routing ...................................................................................................17
5.3 Rail Routing...........................................................................................................19
6. SECURITY........................................................................................................................21
6.1 Introduction............................................................................................................21
6.2 Non-Classified Shipments .....................................................................................22
6.3 Classified National Security Shipments ................................................................24
7. CARRIER/DRIVER REQUIREMENTS ..........................................................................25
Section 4
7.1 Introduction............................................................................................................25
7.2 Non-Classified Shipments .....................................................................................25
7.3 Classified National Security Shipments ................................................................26
7.4 Rail Carrier Requirements .....................................................................................26
8. SHIPMENT PRENOTIFICATION ...................................................................................28
8.1 Introduction............................................................................................................28
8.2 Non-Classified Shipments .....................................................................................28
8.3 Classified National Security Shipments ................................................................29
9. TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONAL CONTINGENCIES..........................................31
9.1 Introduction............................................................................................................31
9.2 Highway Contingencies .........................................................................................31
9.3 Rail Contingencies .................................................................................................33
10. TRACKING ......................................................................................................................34
10.1 Introduction............................................................................................................34
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10.2 Highway and Rail Modes ......................................................................................34
11. INSPECTIONS..................................................................................................................36
11.1 Introduction............................................................................................................36
11.2 Inspections–Highway.............................................................................................36
11.3 Classified and Non-Classified Rail Inspections.....................................................37
12. SAFE PARKING...............................................................................................................39
12.1 Introduction............................................................................................................39
12.2 Safe Parking–Highway ..........................................................................................39
12.3 Safe Parking–Rail ..................................................................................................41
13. EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION .....................................................................................42
13.1 Introduction............................................................................................................42
13.2 Criteria for Emergency Notification ......................................................................42
13.3 Emergency Notification Responsibilities ..............................................................42
13.4 Type of Information to Be Provided..................................................................... 44
13.5 Maintenance of State/Tribal 24-Hour Point-of-Contact List.................................44
Section 5
13.6 Non-Emergency Events .........................................................................................44
14. EMERGENCY RESPONSE..............................................................................................45
14.1 Introduction............................................................................................................45
14.2 DOE Assistance .....................................................................................................45
14.3 Emergency Response .............................................................................................45
15. RECOVERY AND CLEANUP.........................................................................................49
15.1 Introduction............................................................................................................49
15.2 Highway.................................................................................................................49
15.3 Rail.........................................................................................................................50
ATTACHMENTS
1. CONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS DOCUMENT
2. GLOSSARY
3. ACRONYMS
4. SUMMARY OF RESOURCES
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1.0 TRANSPORTATION PRACTICES
1.1 Introduction
This Manual establishes a set of standard transportation practices for U.S. Department of Energy
(DOE) organizations to use in planning and executing offsite shipments of radioactive materials
including radioactive waste. These practices establish a standardized process and framework for
interacting with State, Tribal, and local authorities and transportation contractors and carriers
regarding DOE radioactive material shipments. DOE organizations are responsible for
implementing this Manual, as well as applicable agreements with State, Tribal, or local
authorities. DOE is committed to meeting or exceeding all Nuclear Regulatory Commission
(NRC) or Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements that apply to comparable
commercial shipments and, therefore, all Federal and contractor entities subject to this Manual
must act in accordance with this policy by performing transportation activities in a manner that
meets or exceeds any such requirements, except as otherwise specified by this Manual. The
Contractor Requirements Document in Attachment 1 of this Manual also specifies particular
requirements that contractors must follow if this Manual is incorporated into their contract. The
practices in this Manual provide a comprehensive basis for safely and securely shipping
classified and unclassified radioactive materials.
The Senior Executive Transportation Forum was established by the Secretary of Energy in
January 1998 to coordinate the efforts of Departmental elements involved in the transportation of
radioactive materials and waste. In response to recommendations from various DOE programs
and external stakeholders, the Forum agreed to evaluate the shipping practices being used or
planned for use throughout the Department, document them, and, where appropriate, standardize
them. The results of that effort were reflected in the original issue of this Manual. This update
reflects the ongoing and continuing collaboration of DOE organizations and outside
organizations on transportation of radioactive material and waste.
1.2 Background on DOE Shipments
Section 6
DOE and its predecessor agencies have maintained a record of safe transportation of radioactive
materials for more than 50 years. Of the thousands of shipments, none has resulted in an
identifiable injury through release of radioactive material. Approximately 3 million packages of
radioactive materials are shipped each year in the United States.
Historically, DOE shipments constitute only a very small fraction (typically less than 1 percent)
of the total radioactive material shipments; however, they comprise a significant portion
(typically around 75 percent) of the curies (amount of radioactivity) shipped annually in the
United States. In fulfilling its diverse civilian and defense missions, the Department transports
various types of radioactive materials. These include isotopes for medical, industrial, and
research purposes; weapons-related materials; spent nuclear fuel (SNF) and high-level waste
(HLW); low-level waste (LLW) and mixed low-level waste (MLLW); transuranic (TRU) waste;
and tritium-bearing reactor components.
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DOE Headquarters organizations provide policy direction and oversight for packaging and
transportation activities for their respective offices. The DOE Headquarters organizations
responsible for shipments are the Offices of Environmental Management; Nuclear Energy,
Science and Technology; Civilian Radioactive Waste Management (OCRWM); and within
National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), Defense Programs; Defense Nuclear
Nonproliferation; and the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program (NNPP). For most radioactive
shipments, DOE field organizations are responsible for detailed planning and for ensuring that
shipments are conducted in accordance with all applicable requirements and standards. The field
organizations also serve as the primary points of contact for public and stakeholder interactions.
1.3 Requirements
DOE works with DOT and NRC in developing requirements and standards for radioactive
material transportation. DOT and NRC have the primary responsibility for Federal regulations
governing commercial radioactive material transportation. DOE has broad authority under the
Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended (AEA), to regulate all aspects of activities involving
radioactive materials that are undertaken by DOE or on its behalf, including the transportation of
radioactive materials. DOE exercises this authority to regulate certain DOE shipments, such as
shipments undertaken by governmental employees or shipments involving special circumstances.
In most cases that do not involve national security, DOE utilizes commercial carriers that
undertake DOE shipments under the same terms and conditions as commercial shipments. These
shipments are subject to regulation by DOT, NRC and other entities as appropriate. As a matter
of policy, however, all DOE shipments will be undertaken in accordance with the requirements
and standards that apply to comparable commercial shipments, except where there is a
determination that national security or another critical interest requires different action. This
policy is set forth in DOE Orders 460.1B, Packaging and Transportation Safety, 460.2A,
Departmental Materials Transportation and Packaging Management, and 470.4A, Safeguards
and Security Program. In implementing this policy, DOE will cooperate with Federal, State,
local and Tribal entities and utilize existing expertise and resources to the extent practicable. In
all cases, DOE will achieve a level of protection that meets or exceeds the level of protection
associated with comparable commercial shipments.
Section 7
1.4 Shipments Covered by this Manual
This Manual covers the majority of DOE off-site radioactive material shipments but not all
materials and modes. The practices apply to the DOE radioactive material/waste shipments that
represent the greatest percentage of radioactivity placed in the nation’s transportation system by
DOE. Included are highway and rail shipments of spent nuclear fuel, high-level waste,
tritium-bearing reactor components, LLW and MLLW, isotopes, and classified national security
shipments. National security shipments include Naval spent fuel rail shipments under the
cognizance of the NNPP and highway shipments of classified materials made by OST. Truck
shipments of TRU waste are also covered.
The Carlsbad Field Office (CBFO) has reached agreement with the 30 states and 10 tribes from
which or through which it ships TRU waste. These shipping protocols are institutionalized in
five documents, as follows:
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• Memorandum of Agreement between the Southern States Energy Board and the
Department of Energy. Signed by the Southern State Energy Board Chairman and
Secretary of Energy.
• Memorandum of Agreement between the Western Governors’ Association and the
Department of Energy. Signed by the Chairman of the Western Governors’ Association
and the Secretary of Energy.
• Regional Protocol for the Safe Transport of Transuranic Waste to the Waste Isolation
Pilot Plant. (Southern States Energy Board)
• Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Transportation Safety Program Implementation Guide.
(Western Governors’ Association)
• Waste Isolation Pilot Plant Transportation Plan.
The last three of these are considered living documents and are changed from time-to-time by
mutual agreement. They are detailed documents for the sections covered by this manual which
apply to the TRU waste shipments.
All shipments to a repository under the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 (NWPA), as amended,
are covered by this Manual. Shipments of commercial SNF, DOE SNF, commercial HLW and
defense HLW to a repository at Yucca Mountain, Nevada are the responsibility of OCRWM.
Prior to NWPA shipments of HLW and SNF, OCRWM will develop detailed operational plans
in collaboration with OCRWM stakeholders. Although this Manual covers NWPA shipments, it
does so without any detailed specificity since the operational plans have yet to be developed.
When the detailed plans are developed, the Manual will be amended to reflect the commitments
made in the plans. Shipments of Naval spent fuel are the responsibility of the NNPP.
This Manual does not apply to a number of unique items:
• shipments by barge or water vessel;
• air shipments of medical and research isotopes which are lightweight and handled by
commercial air express service to ensure quick delivery because of their short half-lives;
• depleted uranium hexafluoride cylinders;
• large-quantity sources;
• classified materials moving by commercial carriers;
• fresh (new) nuclear fuel;
• non-hazardous materials;
• non-radioactive hazardous materials; and
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• onsite transfers of radioactive material.
All of these shipments, however, are subject to applicable requirements and standards.
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2.0 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING
2.1 Introduction
Section 8
Transportation planning activities include characterization and classification of the material to be
shipped, identification of programmatic needs and applicable requirements, selection and
procurement of appropriate packaging, evaluation and selection of modes and carriers to be used,
and planning for needed public information. The objective of transportation planning is to
arrange for safe, secure, timely, and cost-effective movement of the radioactive materials.
Opportunities for stakeholder involvement in transportation planning activities will be provided
through outreach activities conducted by the DOE organizations responsible for the materials to
be transported. Each of these planning elements is addressed below.
DOE obtains input on transportation planning activities from a broad range of stakeholder
organizations through the Transportation External Coordination Working Group (TEC/WG) and
through interaction with States, Tribes, local officials, carriers, regional groups, and site advisory
boards.
2.2. Material Characterization and Classification
Characterization and classification of the material to be shipped are necessary to ensure that the
material is shipped safely and in accordance with applicable regulations and that the material is
compatible with the packaging selected for shipment. Material characterization and classification
are performed by DOE or contractor technical staff who possess detailed knowledge of the
material and who have been properly trained on the DOT regulations pertaining to classification.
Characterization and classification responsibilities for shipments to a repository under the
NWPA are set forth in the Standard Contract for Disposal of Spent Nuclear Fuel and/or
High-Level Radioactive Waste (10 CFR 961) for commercial sources of material and in MOUs
between OCRWM and other DOE programs for DOE material.
2.3 Identification of Programmatic Needs and Applicable Requirements
DOE identifies the need to ship, the materials to be shipped, the origin, the destination, the
schedule, and other programmatic needs. In addition, DOE is responsible for identifying
applicable requirements based on characterization of the material to be shipped.
2.4 Packaging Selection
Packaging selection depends on the DOT material classification and the chemical and physical
characteristics of the material. Packaging requirements may also be specified by statute. The
Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) Land Withdrawal Act and the NWPA both contain packaging
certification requirements for WIPP and SNF/HLW repository shipments, respectively. The
cognizant DOE organization is responsible for identifying the proper packaging and taking steps
to ensure that the packagings are available when needed for shipment. For Type B packagings,
the appropriate certificate of compliance must be checked to ensure that it is current and that the
proposed contents have been approved. Packaging selection is performed by the shipper’s or
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contractor’s technical staff that has been properly trained on DOT, NRC and/or international
packaging regulations.
For repository shipments of SNF and HLW, Section 180(a) of the NWPA requires that OCRWM
only use packages that have been certified by the NRC for such purposes.
2.5 Mode and Carrier Selection
Section 9
Safety is the primary consideration in mode and carrier evaluation and selection. Shipments are
typically planned using the mode of transportation and individual carriers within that mode that
can safely provide the required service at the lowest overall cost to the Government. However,
under certain circumstances where only a particular mode of transportation or a particular carrier
within that mode can be used to meet specific program requirements and/or limitations, only that
mode or carrier will be considered. Examples of valid reasons for considering only one particular
mode or carrier are where only a certain mode of transportation or individual carrier is able to
provide the needed service or is able to meet the required delivery date, or where the shipping or
receiving facilities preclude or are not conducive to service by all modes of transportation. In
such instances, consideration will be limited to modes and carriers that can meet program
requirements.
Some of the factors that should be considered in determining whether a carrier or mode of
transportation can meet DOE’s transportation service requirements for each individual shipment
are—
• availability and suitability of carrier equipment for the weight and size of the cargo;
• carrier terminal facilities at origin and destination;
• pickup and delivery service, if required;
• estimated time in transit;
• record of past performance of the carrier; and
• review of the carrier’s security measures and verification of the carrier’s employee hiring
and review process, including background checks and ongoing security training program.
2.5.1 Spent Nuclear Fuel and High-Level Waste. The DOT study, “Identification of Factors for
Selecting Modes and Routes for Shipping High-Level Radioactive Waste and Spent
Nuclear Fuel” concluded the following:
• The transport casks used for SNF and HLW are designed to the most stringent
packaging standards. The cask design reduces much of the risk associated with
the transport of the material.
• Radiation exposure risks associated with incident-free shipments and with
potential accident conditions are very low.
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• A shipping campaign using larger-capacity rail/barge casks, where practicable,
can reduce the number of trips needed and consequently may result in lower
overall risk.
• Shipment duration is the most significant safety factor.
• As a general rule, highway offers the fastest movement among the three modes
(highway, rail, and water), and waterway is the slowest.
DOE organizations will consider these DOT study conclusions when selecting modes and
will consult with appropriate State and Tribal officials to ensure their concerns are
considered.
2.5.2 OCRWM SNF and HLW shipments to a repository at Yucca Mountain, Nevada. The
primary shipping mode will be by rail and use of special rail service (specifically
dedicated trains) is anticipated for most shipments.
2.6 Transportation Plans
2.6.1 Non-Classified Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, Tritium-Bearing Reactor
Components, and Transuranic Waste Shipments.
The cognizant DOE organization will consult with State, Tribal, and carrier
representatives when developing plans and will provide them, for comment, to those
States and Tribes through whose jurisdictions the shipments are expected to be
transported. Transuranic waste shipments will follow the WIPP Transportation Plan
(DOE/CBFO 98-3103). If the carrier transportation plans are incorporated into the DOE
plans as an appendix, States and Tribes will have an opportunity to review and comment
on the plans.
Section 10
Transportation plans describe operational strategy and delineate steps that will be taken
in accordance with applicable requirements. Specific contents of transportation plans are
determined by the program office and/or operations office, and in general include
information on1—
• organizational roles and responsibilities,
• material to be shipped,
• projected shipping window (as appropriate, DOE organizations consider input
from States and Tribes on holidays or special events that may impact shipping
schedules),
• estimated number of shipments,
1 Security needs may require that some information be subject to restricted access.
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• mode of transport and carriers to be used,
• packages to be used,
• preferred and/or alternative routes,
• shipment pre-notifications,
• safe parking arrangements,
• tracking systems,
• emergency preparedness and response,
• recovery and cleanup,
• security arrangements, and
• public information.
2.6.2 Low-Level Waste, Mixed Low-Level Waste, and Other Radioactive Material.
Transportation plans are not routinely written for shipments of these materials. The
cognizant DOE program organization will determine if the shipping activities warrant the
development of a written transportation plan. When a transportation plan is not
developed, the DOE shipping organization may develop, in consultation with State and
Tribal authorities, a detailed fact sheet to provide specific shipment information for a
wide audience: public officials, media, state and local emergency response personnel,
state and regional planners, etc.
2.7 Communications Plans
Public information officers have standardized communications practices for providing general
information to the public. General information on transportation of radioactive material is
identified in Attachment 4. DOE program managers are encouraged to use this material
whenever possible to address public concerns/questions. For some shipments, this general
information may be sufficient. The cognizant DOE program organization is responsible for
coordinating stakeholder interactions.
2.7.1. Non-Classified Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, Transuranic Waste Shipments,
and Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components. If the cognizant DOE organization
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determines that the standardized communications practices are not sufficient, they will
develop a communications plan appropriate for the particular shipments in consultation
with State, Tribal, and carrier representatives. It will identify roles and responsibilities for
exchanging accurate information between the Department, its shipper, carriers, affected
States, Tribes, and other Federal agencies, the media, and the public. The plan will
identify points of contact and public spokespersons within DOE Headquarters program
offices, participating DOE operations/area offices, and other participating Federal, State,
and Tribal agencies.
The designated DOE operations/area office will prepare campaign or shipment-specific
public information materials, as necessary (i.e., fact sheets, briefing packages, news
releases, and questions and answers) and coordinate those materials with the DOE
Offices of Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs and Public Affairs. The
cognizant DOE program organization will coordinate the draft information materials,
where appropriate, with the affected State and Tribal agencies. When finalized, the
materials will be shared with State and Tribal agencies for their use and distribution. As
requested, DOE will assist and support State and Tribal agencies in responding to
information requests from elected officials and the media.
Section 11
As indicated in OCRWM's Strategic Plan for the Safe Transportation of Spent Nuclear
Fuel and High-Level Radioactive Waste to Yucca Mountain (November 18, 2003),
OCRWM will develop and implement a communications plan with States, Tribes, local
governments, industry and other parties participating in transportation planning.
Interested parties will be asked to provide comments on a draft of the OCRWM
Communications Plan.
2.7.2 Other Non-Classified Shipments Of Low-Level Waste, Mixed Low-Level Waste, And
Other Radioactive Materials. In many instances, the general information available on
programmatic web sites (see Attachment 4) may be sufficient. For some unique shipping
activities, more detailed communications planning may be desired. The responsible DOE
organization will decide whether to develop a communications plan.
2.7.3 Classified National Security Shipments. All inquiries regarding classified national
security shipments should be directed to OST in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Requests for non-classified briefings on the conduct of classified shipments, including
Naval spent fuel shipments, should be directed to the OST, which maintains a program to
educate law enforcement and emergency response personnel about classified shipments.
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3.0 EMERGENCY PLANNING
3.1 Introduction
This section addresses DOE emergency planning activities with State and Tribal jurisdictions for
the transportation of DOE radioactive material/wastes. It does not affect specific mutual aid
agreements that DOE may have with State, Tribal, local, or county organizations.
Emergency planning will include identification of hazards and threats, hazard mitigation,
development and preparation of emergency plans and procedures, and identification of
personnel, training, equipment, and other resources needed for an effective response. Planning
covers activities that assist organizations to prepare for an incident/accident.
The DOE Transportation Emergency Preparedness Program (TEPP) provides tools to State and
Tribal authorities to assist in preparing for response to a transportation incident involving DOE
shipments of radioactive material. TEPP provides technical assistance to State and Tribal
governments in obtaining a greater understanding of radiological risks, identifying planning
deficiencies, updating plans, training first responders, and stimulating and testing the system for
strengths and needed improvements through drills and exercises. TEPP will focus its efforts with
the States and Tribes initially along identified DOE transportation corridors. The goal of TEPP is
to establish consistent policies and implementing procedures, build public and institutional
confidence, and demonstrate the ability to respond effectively. DOE contact will be at the State
and Tribal levels; States will work with the local authorities as necessary to implement their
programs.
3.2 Emergency Planning
Federal regulations set forth requirements for Federal, State, local, and Tribal emergency
planning activities. In addition, DOE Orders, Guides, and Manuals specify planning activities
(including emergency planning) for the DOE shipper and other parties involved with shipping
activities.
DOE emergency planning will be consistent with the National Incident Management System, the
National Response Plan and other current federal emergency response programs.
Section 12
A TEPP coordinator has been designated for each of the eight regional coordinating offices to
serve as the interface with State and Tribal organizations for emergency planning for DOE
transportation of radioactive material/wastes (see Figure 1). A current listing of TEPP
coordinator names and phone numbers along with additional information on TEPP is available
online atwww.em.doe.gov/otem.
3.2.1 The regional TEPP coordinator will—
• Discuss emergency response roles, responsibilities, capabilities, notification
procedures, and information needs with State and Tribal governments along
transportation corridors used for DOE radioactive material/waste shipments. DOE
Regional TEPP Coordinators are available to provide planning information and
11 DOE M 460.2-1A
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assistance to State and Tribal contacts within their region. (Also see the sections
on Emergency Notification and Emergency Response.)
• Provide TEPP planning tools to State and Tribal authorities to assist them in
planning and preparing for response to transportation accidents/incidents
involving DOE radioactive material and performing needs assessments.
• Coordinate with site transportation programs to identify planned radioactive
material shipments to assist State and Tribal organizations in planning for the
various shipments. (See the sections on Transportation Planning and Projected
Shipment Planning Information.)
• Coordinate information with TEPP coordinators in other regions affected by
shipping routes that traverse more than one region.
• Coordinate with program offices, transportation managers, and public information
officers during development of transportation plans and develop the emergency
plans for shipping campaigns originating in their region. (See the section on
Transportation Planning).
Figure 1 DOE Radiological Assistance Program Regions
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3.2.3 Program-specific planning activities include the following.
a. The OST Emergency Management Plan documents the emergency planning
process for any type of operational emergency involving OST personnel and
vehicles.
b. OCRWM will require its carriers to develop an emergency response plan that
addresses activities to be conducted in an accident or incident. Carriers are
responsible for providing all drivers/crews and security personnel with specific
written procedures that are consistent with the plan and clearly define actions to
be taken in the event of any emergency. States and Tribes will have an
opportunity to comment on the plans.
3.3 Training
3.3.1 Transportation Emergency Preparedness Program.
TEPP developed the Modular Emergency Response Radiological Transportation Training
(MERRTT) to address concerns from States, Tribes, and local jurisdictions about
shipments of radioactive material by the U.S. Department of Energy. MERRTT provides
fundamental knowledge for responding to transportation incidents involving radioactive
material and builds on training in existing hazardous materials curricula. MERRTT
satisfies the training requirements outlined in the WIPP Land Withdrawal Act, and is
used to train responders along the WIPP corridor. The training includes a module on the
OST shipments and is largely applicable to Naval spent fuel rail shipments.
MERRTT has a modular design, consisting of 18 concise, easy to understand modules
and 4 hands-on practical exercises. This design allows a jurisdiction to integrate the
modules into existing hazardous material training programs. The modular format allows
instructors to tailor the training to specific emergency response audiences.
Section 13
MERRTT is designed to provide instructor-led or self-paced instruction. The training
objectives and sequence of the modules have been structured to align the modules with
the hazardous material training competencies outlined in OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120(q) and
the National Fire Protection Association standards.
3.3.2 Program-specific training activities include the following:
a. Office of Secure Transportation conducts drills and exercises regularly. In-service
tests are conducted annually with DOE response elements and with State law
enforcement and response agencies. The OST invites States to participate in its
annual in-service training security and emergency response joint training
exercises.
b. WIPP uses the TEPP/MERRTT to train responders along the WIPP corridors. In
addition, WIPP uses the State, Tribal Education Program for training in matters
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such as National Incident Management System, etc., and conducts training
exercises along WIPP corridors.
c. Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management. Section 180(c) of the NWPA
provides for technical and financial assistance for training of local public safety
officials to States and Tribes through whose jurisdictions DOE plans to transport
SNF or HLW to the proposed Yucca Mountain repository. The training is to
cover both safe routine transportation and emergency response procedures. A
detailed discussion of the 180(c) training grant program can be found in DOE’s
proposed policy published in the Federal Register on July 23, 2007 at 72 FR
40139-01. DOE intends to revise and finalize the policy for issuing 180(c)
training grants prior to the commencement of shipments.
d. The Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program conducts periodic Naval spent fuel
shipment briefings and exercises. State, Tribal, and local emergency services
personnel participate or observe to familiarize themselves with Naval spent fuel
shipments, the escorts who accompany the shipments, and the coordination
required for response to an emergency.
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4.0 PROJECTED SHIPMENT PLANNING INFORMATION
4.1 Introduction
This section addresses the provision of information regarding projected shipments of DOE
radioactive materials/wastes. The information to be provided and the timing of it will be
determined by the responsible DOE organization to permit each Headquarters organization to
determine, in concert with stakeholders, the appropriate schedule for providing information.
4.2 Planning Information
Planning information is the general information regarding projected shipments that is shared
with State and Tribal authorities to allow them to adequately plan resources for inspections,
emergency response, accident prevention, and public information/outreach activities. The
cognizant DOE organization, field office and shippers will establish an ongoing dialogue,
consistent with security considerations, with State and Tribal agencies that demonstrate an
interest in shipments traveling through their jurisdictions.
4.2.1 Non-Classified Shipments
a. General information will be provided for shipment of—
• spent nuclear fuel;
• high-level waste;
• high-volume shipments of LLW and MLLW;2
• TRU waste; and
• tritium-bearing reactor components.
b. General information may include the following3 (as determined by the responsible
DOE organization, in consultation with State and Tribal authorities):
• when shipments are anticipated;
• origin;
• destination;
Section 14
• projected pass-through State and Tribal lands;
2 For the purposes of this Manual, high-volume truckload shipments are those that a shipper schedules for an average
of five or more truckload shipments per week between a given origin and destination for a period of 3 or more
months; high-volume rail shipments are those that a shipper schedules for an average of 60 railcars or more per
month between a given origin and destination for a period of 3 or more months.
3 Security needs may require that some information be subject to restricted access.
15 DOE M 460.2-1A
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• expected number of shipments;
• operational specifics (e.g., whether shipments are escorted);
• description of material to be shipped;
• packaging descriptions;
• shipping modes;
• potential routes;
• DOE/contractor point of contact;
• list of applicable reference documents (e.g., environmental impact
statement, environmental assessment, record of decision); and
• emergency response guidance.
c. Recipients of the information include the following:
• State and Tribal agency officials/points of contact (Note: States may pass
on information to local governments as they deem appropriate) and
• other parties as deemed appropriate by the responsible DOE organization,
in consultation with State and Tribal authorities (e.g., regional groups).
d. Frequency of updates. In consultation with State and Tribal authorities, the
responsible DOE organization will determine the frequency of updates based on
changes in the shipment planning parameters.
e. Method of providing information.
(1) In consultation with State and Tribal authorities, the responsible DOE
organization will determine the most appropriate method for providing
and updating the information.
(2) DOE programs may use the Prospective Shipments Module for SNF,
highway route-controlled quantity, and other campaigns, after the NEPA
process is completed.
4.2.2 Classified National Security Shipments
a. General information on both highway shipments of classified materials made by
the OST and on Naval spent fuel shipments are discussed with State and Tribal
officials.
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b. DOE works with contacts, designated by States and Tribes, with need for
information about classified national security shipments.
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5.0 ROUTING
5.1 Introduction
This section addresses the identification and selection of highway and rail transportation routes
for shipments of DOE radioactive materials, but does not change agreements between DOE and
States and Tribes regarding the routing of DOE shipments.
5.2 Highway Routing
5.2.1 Non-Classified Shipments
a. Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, and Tritium-Bearing Reactor
Components
(1) Highway routes are selected in accordance with 49 CFR 397.101(b) for
highway route-controlled quantity shipments.
(2) DOE organizations (along with the operating contractors) analyze
proposed routes using transportation models such as the Transportation
Routing Analysis Geographic Information System (TRAGIS).
(3) States and Tribes may designate highway routes in accordance with the
regulations set forth in 49 CFR 397.103. Additional input resulting from
stakeholder review of projected shipment planning information is
considered. Routes are documented in specific shipment transportation
plans.
(4) For safeguards and security purposes, the following practices apply:
Section 15
(a) For shipments subject to an NRC license (e.g., university and
research reactor spent nuclear fuel shipments), the shipper or
transportation contractor submits routes for NRC approval in
accordance with 10 CFR 73.37.
(b) For shipments not subject to an NRC license, DOE will be
responsible for stakeholder interactions, final route approval, and
other applicable safeguards and security requirements. DOE will
meet or exceed the requirements prescribed by DOT and NRC for
comparable commercial transportation.
b. Transuranic Waste Shipments
DOE Carlsbad Field Office negotiates routes with States and Tribes on behalf of
the carrier. Specific routes to WIPP will be identified from each waste generator
site. In developing these routes, DOE CBFO —
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• suggests routes to States and Tribes, based on highway route-controlled
quantity routing criteria (49 CFR 397.101), which carriers would follow
between given origins and destinations;
• provides for State, Tribal, and local review and comment on proposed
routes;
• recognizes that States and Tribes may designate routes in accordance with
49 CFR 397.103;
• uses cooperative agreements with State Regional Groups to help facilitate
interactions with States;
• allows for route modifications following a defined process involving
State, Tribes, and local stakeholder input;
• minimizes the number of routes used for WIPP shipments; and
• specifies routes to be used as an enforceable provision in contracts with
carriers.
If shipments are contemplated using protocols other than those agreed to for TRU
waste shipments to WIPP, negotiations will be held with affected states and tribes
prior to the commencement of shipments.
c. Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste. Carriers select routes in accordance
with the provisions of 49 CFR 397.101(a), which state that except in
circumstances when there is only one practicable highway route available,
considering operating necessity and safety, the carrier:
(1) ensures that the motor vehicle is operated on routes that minimize
radiological risk;
(2) considers available information on accident rates, transit time, population
density and activities, and the time of day and the day of week during
which transportation will occur to determine the level of radiological risk;
and
(3) tells the driver which route to take and that the motor vehicle contains
Class 7 (radioactive) materials.
d. Isotopes. The carriers act in accordance with the requirements set forth in
49 CFR 397.101.
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5.2.2 Classified National Security Shipments
The provisions of 49 CFR 173.7(b) exempt national security shipments from the
requirements set forth in 49 CFR 171 through 189. However, to the extent consistent with
national security, DOE uses approved hazardous material cargo routes, as designated by
States or Tribes, as a guide for classified national security shipments. DOE optimizes the
use of four-lane highways and two-lane roads with wide shoulders for safety and security
concerns.
5.3 Rail Routing
5.3.1 Non-Classified Shipments
a. Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, and Tritium-Bearing Reactor
Components
(1) The cognizant DOE organization will consult with and develop routing
options with rail carriers and with States and Tribes. The following factors
should be considered to the extent practicable:
• distance traveled;
• number of interchanges between railroads;
Section 16
• use of higher-class track, for example, “key routes” as defined in
Association of American Railroads Circular OT-55;
• operational input from carriers.
(2) DOE organizations or operating contractors analyze proposed routes using
transportation models (such as TRAGIS).
(3) Cognizant DOE organizations consult with States and Tribes on the
transportation plans. Additional stakeholder input resulting from
stakeholder review of projected shipment planning information is
considered. Routes are documented in specific shipment transportation
plans.
(4) For safeguards and security purposes, the following practices apply:
(a) For shipments subject to an NRC license (e.g., university and
research reactor spent nuclear fuel shipments), the shipper or
transportation contractor submits routes for NRC approval in
accordance with 10 CFR 73.37.
(b) For shipments not subject to an NRC license, DOE will be
responsible for stakeholder interactions, final route approval, and
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other applicable safeguards and security requirements. DOE will
meet or exceed the requirements prescribed by DOT and NRC for
comparable commercial transportation.
b. Transuranic Waste Shipments
No rail shipments of TRU waste are currently planned. The protocol for rail
shipments to WIPP will be developed if a decision is made to utilize rail. If
shipments are contemplated using protocols other than those agreed to for TRU
waste shipments to WIPP negotiations will be held with affected states and tribes
prior to the commencement of shipments.
c. Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste. DOE or its designated shipper specifies
carriers and interchange points between carriers. Each carrier selects the specific
route to be used while the shipment is in the carrier’s custody and care.
5.3.2 Classified National Security Shipments
National security rail shipments are routed as described above for spent nuclear fuel and
high-level waste [section 5.3.1.a.(1)]. Routing information is made available to State and
Tribal contacts as described in the Projected Shipment Planning Information section.
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6.0 SECURITY
6.1 Introduction
This section generally addresses safeguards and security actions taken to protect DOE shipments
of radioactive materials. Sensitive information regarding specific commodities or shipments is
not discussed here.
Security and safety are the key considerations in transportation of radioactive materials. For
decades, NRC, DOE, and DOT regulations and well-established industry best practices have
specified detailed requirements for appropriate protection and security, which generally vary
depending on the type and amount of material involved.
Following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and the subsequent global war on terror,
officials at every level of government have reexamined established practices related to physical
protection of all hazardous materials shipments, including radioactive material. NRC, DOT, and
individual DOE organizations have established enhanced security requirements for radioactive
material/waste shipments. These efforts are consistent with current international initiatives and
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) activities to prevent not only threats to public safety
from malicious acts (such as sabotage or diversion of material), but also inadvertent loss of
control of radioactive material. Early in the shipment planning process, the responsible DOE
organization will identify the security requirements applicable to the shipment.
Section 17
Information dealing with the security of many radioactive shipments in transit can be sensitive.
This information may require protection as safeguards information under NRC regulations or as
Unclassified Controlled Nuclear Information (UCNI) or Official Use Only (OUO) under DOE
regulations. Shipments of strategic materials such as highly enriched uranium are safeguarded as
classified information. Unauthorized disclosure of any of the above levels of information is a
violation of the Atomic Energy Act and other legal authorities.
Assessments of possible security threats against shipments (e.g., civil unrest directed toward a
shipment, malevolent action against a shipment, activity to interfere with the progress of a
shipment, etc.) are performed by cognizant DOE organizations and evaluated on an ongoing
basis in coordination with Federal, State, Tribal, and carrier law enforcement/security
organizations. These threat assessments assist in determining appropriate security for shipments.
In addition, in certain situations, the requirements in 49 CFR 172.800 provide for development
of a security plan to ensure —
• sufficient background to understand the nature of the threats against hazardous materials
transportation;
• the means to identify the vulnerabilities to those threats; and
• an approach to address the vulnerabilities.
The plan will include an assessment of possible transportation security risks for shipments of
hazardous material covered under this regulatory citation.
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DOE program organizations may develop additional guidance for shipments in transit in the
event the DHS Threat Advisory Level is elevated (e.g., when DHS elevates the threat level from
Yellow to Orange).
6.2 Non-Classified Shipments
6.2.1 Spent Nuclear Fuel and High-Level Waste
a. Security will be provided in compliance with NRC requirements in
10 CFR Part 73 for shipments subject to an NRC license. Other DOE
shipments will be undertaken in a manner that meets or exceeds NRC security
requirements. NRC has issued compensatory measures to enhance security for
irradiated reactor fuel and special nuclear material of moderate and low
strategic significance, as described in 10 CFR 73.37 and 10 CFR 73.67. DOE
organizations will ensure that in-transit requirements are addressed, including
developing security plans, implementing information and physical security
access controls, training, escorts, inspections, tracking, communications, and
employee background checks. Specific NRC requirements are considered
Safeguards Information; DOE requirements may be handled as OUO or other
protected categories of information.
b. Liaison with Federal, State, and Tribal law enforcement/security officials will be
provided by the DOE program organization.
c. During transit, the shipment will be under constant surveillance by the drivers or
escorts.
d. Escorts may be provided by State, Tribal, or local jurisdictions, at their
discretion.
e. Transportation Tracking and Communications System (TRANSCOM) or the
OCRWM equivalent system will be used to track shipments, as described in the
Tracking Protocol.
f. In addition to the above, the following practices apply to Foreign Research
Reactor Fuel shipments:
(1) Upon arrival in coastal waters, security zones are established around the
ship by the U.S. Coast Guard in accordance with a memorandum of
agreement.
(2) Overland transport security is coordinated with State and Tribal law
enforcement officials and the involved railroad and motor carriers.
Section 18
6.2.2 Low-Level Waste, Mixed Low-Level Waste, Isotopes
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a. DOE organizations must ensure the development and implementation of a
security plan if such a plan would be required for commercial shipments under 49
CFR 172.800. The security plan will include an assessment of possible
transportation security risks and appropriate measures to address the assessed
risks. Specific measures put in place by the plan may vary based on the level of
threat at a given time. The security plan, together with the carrier’s security plan,
will include, at a minimum—
(1) personnel security;
(2) unauthorized access to the hazardous material;
(3) en route security from origin to destination.
6.2.3 Transuranic Waste Shipments:
a. Escorts may be provided by State, Tribal, or local jurisdictions at their discretion.
b. Shipments to WIPP will be tracked through TRANSCOM as described in the
tracking protocol.
c. During transit, shipments are required to be under constant surveillance by the
drivers.
d. Liaison with State and Tribal law enforcement agencies will be maintained by
CBFO regarding security concerns as may be identified.
e. If shipments are contemplated using protocols other than those agreed to for TRU
waste shipments to WIPP negotiations will be held with affected States and
Tribes prior to the commencement of shipments.
6.2.4 Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components
a. Escorts may be provided by State, tribal, or local jurisdictions, at their discretion.
b. Shipments will be tracked by TRANSCOM as described in the Tracking Protocol.
c. Specific security measures will depend on the outcome of threat assessments.
d. The carrier is responsible for security during shipment.
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6.3 Classified National Security Shipments
6.3.1 Office of Secure Transportation Shipments must:
a. Be accompanied by armed Federal agents trained to protect and defend shipments
from any attack or following any accident;
b. Use trailers to transport nuclear weapons that are specially designed vehicles that
incorporate safeguards to prevent unauthorized removal of the cargo;
c. Use the OST Transportation Emergency Communications Center (TECC) to
monitor, track, and provide communication with every convoy on the road; and
d. Brief state law enforcement officials through the OST State Liaison Program.
6.3.2 Naval Spent Fuel Shipments
a. Shipments must be escorted full-time by armed, specially trained
(communications, firearms, tactics, observation, use of deadly force) active duty
Navy personnel who maintain 24-hour surveillance.
b. Close liaison must be maintained with rail carrier police departments who
coordinate with State and local law enforcement officials as necessary. Rail
carrier police departments must be provided advance information for each
shipment.
c. OST TECC must monitor, track, and provide communication with every shipment
as described in the Tracking section.
d. State law enforcement officials must be briefed through the OST State Liaison
Program.
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7.0 CARRIER/DRIVER REQUIREMENTS
7.1 Introduction
This section addresses steps taken to ensure that high-quality carriers and drivers are utilized and
meet Federal safety standards for transportation of radioactive materials (e.g., vehicle
maintenance, record-keeping, training, certifications, licensing, and controlled substances and
alcohol testing). Although DOE has processes and programs in place to monitor carrier
performance and safety, it is ultimately the responsibility of the carrier to follow applicable
regulations.
Section 19
7.2 Non-Classified Shipments
DOT provides regulatory oversight of commercial carriers. Carriers used to transport highway
route controlled quantities (HRCQ) of radioactive material in less-than-truckload (LTL) or
truckload (TL) quantities, any TL quantities of radioactive material, and any TL quantities of
hazardous waste, must be evaluated in accordance with the DOE "Motor Carrier Evaluation
Program Plan and Program Procedures."
DOE organizations will ensure that drivers hold a current commercial driver’s license (CDL)
with a hazardous material endorsement and meet applicable requirements in 49 CFR, including a
DOT-managed random drug and alcohol-testing program. Additional requirements are described
below by the type of radioactive material shipped.
7.2.1 Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, and Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components. The
provisions of 49 CFR govern carrier and driver requirements for shipments of spent
nuclear fuel and high-level waste. For Highway Route Controlled Quantities of
Radioactive Material, these driver training requirements are codified in 49 CFR Part 397.
DOE will use highly qualified drivers and high quality equipment. In addition to the
CFR-required training, truck drivers are required to be knowledgeable in the Commercial
Vehicle Safety Alliance Enhanced (CVSA) (Level VI) North American Standard
Inspection Procedures; in particular, Part I—Driver Inspection Standards.
7.2.2 Spent Nuclear Fuel Shipped Under the NWPA. In addition to the minimum
qualifications, driver/crew training must cover operation of the specific package tie-down
systems, cask recovery procedures, use of radiation detection instruments, use of
TRANSCOM or current OCRWM equivalent tracking system and other communications
equipment, adverse weather and safe parking procedures, public affairs awareness
training; first responder awareness training [29 CFR Part 1910.120(q)], and radiation
worker “B” (or equivalent) training as described in 10 CFR 19.12(b).
7.2.3 Transuranic Waste Shipments
a. The CBFO will ensure compliance with the WIPP transportation plan, which
includes specific requirements for driver qualifications, driver performance
requirements, driver training, carrier requirements, inspection requirements, and
vehicle maintenance requirements.
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b. If shipments are contemplated using protocols other than those agreed to for TRU
waste shipments to WIPP negotiations will be held with affected states and tribes
prior to the commencement of shipments.
7.2.4 Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste. LLW and MLLW shipments are made in
accordance with the applicable requirements set forth in 49 CFR based on the type and
level of hazard associated with the material.
7.2.5 Isotopes. Isotope shipments are made in accordance with applicable requirements set
forth in 49 CFR.
7.3 Classified National Security Shipments
Drivers will be at least 21 years of age and hold a current CDL with hazardous material
endorsement. Drivers will meet applicable requirements in 49 CFR and are also required to pass
an annual recertification with a check ride. They will receive extensive driver training (3-week
tractor/trailer driving class, off-road driving course, defensive driving courses) and follow the
requirements of the DOT safety regulations. Drivers are covered by the Human Reliability
Program. This program requires that training, security, and medical requirements are completed
and verified annually by the Human Reliability Program administrator and certified by the
Manager of OST. Also, drivers will be required to pass a comprehensive annual physical
examination and are subject to random drug and alcohol testing. For classified shipments, DOE
has its own fleet vehicle program. All vehicles are required to go through a complete
maintenance inspection prior to departing.
Section 20
7.4 Rail Carrier Requirements
Rail carriers follow the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations and are responsible
for training and qualification of their crews including application of 49 CFR Part 240,
Qualification and Certification of Locomotive Engineers, to operate over the district in which the
train will move. Rail shipments will meet the applicable Association of American Railroads
(AAR) standards and recommended practices.
The FRA requires recurrent and function-specific training for personnel performing specific
work, such as train crews, dispatchers, and signal maintainers. FRA regulations mandate
recurrent training at a minimum interval of 3 years, but in cases of changed or redefined job
functions or newer employees, training occurs at more frequent intervals. FRA regulations
require drug and alcohol testing of engineers and crew. Regulations also require that all
employees receive specific training directly tailored to job function. These regulations are meant
to serve as a baseline set of requirements for the industry, and carriers often institute measures
that exceed those requirements.
Regulatory conformity on the part of rail carriers in the area of rail safety (including crew
training and preparedness and equipment inspection) is assured by rail industry rules, standards,
and recommended practices which correspond with and in some cases enhance said regulations.
Additionally, safety and performance provisions are standard features of DOE carrier business
arrangements, and provide another measure of assurance that regulatory requirements are met.
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For NWPA shipments of SNF and HLW, rail carriers are also responsible for maintaining a
training program addressing a list of areas, such as operation of the specific package tie-down
systems, public affairs, first responder awareness training, and use of TRANSCOM or the
OCRWM equivalent system. Crews will also be trained for hazardous material handling in
accordance with individual railroad operating rules and AAR standards.
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8.0 SHIPMENT PRENOTIFICATION
8.1 Introduction
This section addresses near-term notification activities for pending DOE shipments of
radioactive materials. Shipment prenotification informs public officials that specific near-term
shipments will be transported through their jurisdictions. Such prenotifications will be done as
required by regulations and agreements with States and Tribes.
8.2 Non-Classified Shipments
8.2.1 Spent Nuclear Fuel and High-Level Waste. DOE or its contractors will provide advance
notification of non-classified shipments of SNF and HLW in accordance with applicable
requirements as shown in Table 1. DOE will strive to ensure that affected jurisdictions
are provided with general knowledge several weeks in advance of upcoming shipments.
Section 180(b) of the NWPA requires OCRWM to abide by NRC regulations regarding
advance notification of State and local governments prior to transportation of SNF or
HLW to a NWPA-authorized facility.
8.2.2 Transuranic Waste Shipments. The CBFO provides notifications to corridor States and
Tribes affected by TRU waste shipments.
a. An annual projection of shipments by January 31.
b. A six-month update of the annual projection by July 31.
c. A 14-day notification made prior to the first five WIPP shipments for each
corridor. These will be provided to affected corridor States and Tribes by a single
letter for all five shipments. The following information will be included in
14-day notifications for shipments to WIPP:
Section 21
• name, address, and telephone number of the shipper, carrier, and receiver;
• point of origin of the shipment;
• description of the shipment;
• estimated date and time of departure from the point of origin.
d. Eight-week rolling projections are—
(1) provided by CBFO using electronic means and
(2) updated when the schedule changes.
e. Two hours prior to entry into each State and Tribal jurisdiction, notifications are
provided by telephone from the WIPP Central Monitoring Room to designated
State control center.
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f. If shipments are contemplated using protocols other than those agreed to for TRU
waste shipments to WIPP negotiations will be held with affected states and tribes
prior to the commencement of shipments.
8.2.3 Other DOE Shipments. No shipment-specific notifications, unless explicitly required,
will be provided for shipments of—
c. LLW and MLLW,
d. isotopes, and
e. tritium-bearing reactor components.
8.2.4 Additional Shipment Information Practices. DOE organizations may provide additional
planning information and shipment pre-notification to State, Tribal, and local authorities.
8.3 Classified National Security Shipments
Classified national security shipments that meet safeguards and security requirements, including
Naval spent fuel shipments, do not provide shipment prenotifications. The Atomic Energy Act of
1954 provides security requirements for the protection of information related to nuclear weapons
and special nuclear materials shipments. The DOT exemption for national security shipments is
stated in 49 CFR 173.7(b).
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Table 1. Notification Requirements for
Non-Classified Spent Nuclear Fuel and High-Level Waste
Type of
Shipment
Non-Classified DOE SNF and
HLW shipments not subject to
NRC license
SNF shipments subject to NRC
license, in excess of 100 g net
weight and over 100 rems per hour
at 3 feet
SNF shipments subject to
NRC license, less than 100 g
net weight or under 100 rems
per hour at 3 feet and HLW
subject to NRC regulation
Requirements DOE M 460.2-1A 10 CFR 73.37 10 CFR 71.97
Who is
notified
Governors or designees and
designated Tribal points of
contact
Governors or designees Governors or designees
Time of Postmarked at least 7 days before Postmarked at least 7 days before Postmarked at least 7 days
notification shipment if mailed, 4 days by
messenger
shipment if mailed, 4 days by
messenger
prior to 7 day period when
shipment departure is
estimated, 4 days by
messenger
Notification of
schedule
change
By telephone if greater than
6 hours
By telephone if greater than 6
hours
By telephone if outside of
7-day period
Information 1. name, address, and telephone 1. name, address, and telephone 1. name, address, and
to be included number of shipper, carrier, and number of shipper, carrier, and telephone number of shipper,
in notification receiver;
2. description of shipment;
3. a list of routes to be used
within the State or through
Tribal jurisdictions;
4. estimated date and time of
departure from point of origin;
5. estimated date and time of
entry into the Governor's State
or into Tribal lands;
6. estimated date and time of
departure from Governor's
State or Tribal jurisdiction
(when the destination is not
within the State)
receiver;
2.description of shipment;
3. a list of routes to be used within
the State;
4. estimated date and time of
departure from point of origin;
5. estimated date and time of entry
Section 22
into the Governor's State;
6. Statement on safeguarding
schedule information
carrier, and receiver;
2. description of the shipment;
3. point of origin and 7-day
period when departure is
estimated;
4. 7-day period during which
arrival at State is estimated;
5. destination and 7-day
period when arrival is
estimated;
6. point of contact
Safeguard
requirements
None Schedule information for 10 days
after shipment per
10 CFR 73.21(b)(2)(ii)
None
31 DOE M 460.2-1A
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9.0 TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONAL CONTINGENCIES
9.1 Introduction
This section addresses operational contingencies taken in response to adverse weather, natural
disasters, vehicle breakdown, travel and road/rail conditions, and unanticipated delays that could
interrupt normal transportation of DOE shipments of radioactive materials. This includes
determinations made prior to departure and while en route. Accidents and incidents are
addressed in the Emergency Notification and Emergency Response sections.
9.2 Highway Contingencies
9.2.1 Non-Classified Shipments
a. Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components,
and Transuranic Waste Shipments. Before dispatch, the shipper and the carrier
will agree that travel conditions are considered to be acceptable. Current weather
conditions, weather forecasts, and projected road conditions at the point of origin
and along the entire route will be considered before dispatching a shipment. The
shipper and the carrier will consider any information provided by States or Tribes
regarding weather and road conditions.
Shipments should not be dispatched or travel if severe weather or bad road
conditions make travel hazardous or if the forecast predicts severe weather or bad
road conditions that would affect the safety of the shipment. Severe weather
conditions are defined to include National Weather Service warnings of
impending:
• winter storm,
• heavy snow,
• blizzard,
• blowing and drifting snow,
• freezing rain/drizzle,
• sleet or ice storm,
• dense fog advisory,
• tornado,
• severe thunderstorm,
• flash flood,
32 DOE M 460.2-1A
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• tropical storm,
• high-wind,
• hurricane, and
• river flood.
Adverse road conditions are defined as those that prompt travel advisories
suggesting that unnecessary travel be avoided (e.g., winter storm watches and
snow advisories).
States and Tribes may provide input on weather and road conditions, and
specific transportation plans may provide additional details on the input process.
States and Tribes may monitor the status of shipments using TRANSCOM, or
the OCRWM equivalent system. When adverse weather and road conditions
occur, States and/or Tribes may notify DOE that a shipment should use an
alternate route or be diverted to a safe parking location to avoid the adverse
conditions.
In the event of a substantial unanticipated delay en route (e.g., greater than
2 hours), the affected States and Tribes will be notified of the event by
TRANSCOM or the OCRWM equivalent system.
b. Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste. Carriers are expected to exercise due
caution and care in dispatching shipments. The carrier will determine the
acceptability of weather and road conditions and if a shipment should be held
before departure and when actions should be taken while en route. Shipments
should not be dispatched or travel if severe weather or bad road conditions make
travel hazardous. Current weather conditions, the weather forecast, and road
conditions should be considered before dispatching a shipment. Conditions at
the point of origin and along the entire route should be considered. Adverse
operating conditions may be reported to the DOE shipper through various means
(e.g., communications with the carrier, information issued by State, Tribal, or
local authorities). Each report to the shipper is addressed in consultation with the
carrier.
Section 23
c. Isotopes. The carrier will determine the acceptability of weather and road
conditions and will determine if a shipment should be held before departure and
when actions should be taken while en route. The carrier will inform the shipper
of any significant delays.
9.2.2 Classified National Security Shipments
Weather conditions are monitored and updated by the OST Communications Center,
TECC. No travel will occur if severe weather conditions along routes or adverse road
conditions make travel hazardous. If adverse conditions are encountered en route,
33 DOE M 460.2-1A
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drivers will locate an acceptable parking area as described in the Safe Parking section of
this Manual.
9.3 Rail Contingencies
Rail carriers use train control and monitoring systems to identify the location of their trains
within the rail system and to make informed decisions based on this information to avoid or
minimize potential weather-related or track condition risks. The carrier may impose local
restrictions on transportation when local conditions make travel hazardous. Adverse operating
conditions can be reported to the DOE shipper through several means (e.g., communications
with the carrier, information provided by State, Tribal, or local authorities). Each report to the
shipper is addressed in consultation with the carrier. If an accident or incident results or
develops, the DOE shipper will consult with appropriate States and Tribes in accordance with
the Emergency Notification and Emergency Response sections of this Manual.
34 DOE M 460.2-1A
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10.0 TRACKING
10.1 Introduction
This section addresses DOE practices for tracking the location of shipments of radioactive
materials and facilitating communication with the drivers/crew of the vehicles. Tracking is the
process by which the geographic location of shipments is monitored along the transportation
route.
10.2 Highway and Rail Modes
10.2.1 Non-Classified Shipments
a. Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components,
and Transuranic Waste Shipments. Near real-time position tracking (i.e., tracking
that is updated every 3-5 minutes) and communications for all shipments will be
provided by TRANSCOM or a current OCRWM shipment tracking system with
comparable or enhanced capabilities. The TRANSCOM or current equivalent
OCRWM shipment tracking system users’ manual will discuss backup procedures
to be used in the event of operational problems with the system. The shipment
tracking system access is limited to users authorized by the cognizant DOE
organization and in coordination with the CBFO or OCRWM, as applicable.
Access to information on a particular shipment is controlled by the cognizant
DOE organization to provide timely information to eligible corridor States and
Tribes.
For SNF shipments covered by the NRC, user designation and access to the
tracking system will be consistent with NRC regulations to ensure that Safeguards
Information, such as schedules and itineraries for specific shipments, is protected
against unauthorized disclosure and is provided only to authorized individuals. In
the event of an emergency, TRANSCOM or the current equivalent OCRWM
shipment tracking system will give information on the emergency to contacts
described in the Emergency Notification protocol.
If shipments are contemplated using protocols other than those agreed to for TRU
waste shipments to WIPP negotiations will be held with affected states and tribes
prior to the commencement of shipments.
Section 24
b. Low-Level Waste, Mixed Low-Level Waste and Isotopes are not subject to DOE
tracking systems. Carriers track their shipments by various means and can provide
shipment information on an as-needed basis as requested by the shipper.
35 DOE M 460.2-1A
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10.2.2 Classified National Security Shipments
The OST maintains 24-hour-a-day tracking and monitoring through TECC. Information is
available only on a classified need-to-know basis. In an emergency, information would be
provided on an unclassified, need-to-know basis.
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11.0 INSPECTIONS
11.1 Introduction
This section addresses inspections of DOE radioactive materials shipments, including both
verifications of vehicle safety and radiological safety of containers loaded on the vehicles.
11.2 Highway Inspections
11.2.1 Non-Classified Shipments
a. Spent Nuclear Fuel , High-Level Waste, Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components,
and Transuranic Waste. The shipper and/or carrier will perform preshipment
inspections to ensure conformity with regulatory standards. Prior to departure,
shipments will also be made available for inspection by CVSA-certified State
inspectors unless other arrangements have been made with the State. As required
by DOT, inspections will be conducted in accordance with the CVSA4 Enhanced
(Level VI) North American Standard Inspection Procedures. The CVSA enhanced
inspection procedure imposes more stringent criteria for placing a vehicle
out-of-service, includes additional inspection and out-of-service criteria items
compared to the CVSA Level I inspection, and adds a radiological survey.
Shipments cannot proceed until any Level VI violation has been corrected
consistent with Federal regulations. Shipments en route may be inspected using
the Level VI inspection criteria at the discretion of the States and Tribes, or as
required by State-specific regulations; however, not all en-route states would
likely inspect every shipment.
Post-shipment inspections will be conducted by the receiver, and by States and
Tribes at their discretion (but not to impact unloading operations), in accordance
with applicable regulations. Any post-shipment inspection that reveals a
regulatory non-conformity will be handled in accordance with applicable
requirements. Routinely, the package, its tie-downs, and associated transportation
system hardware are visually inspected at the point of destination to ensure that
no physical damage occurred during transit.
b. Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste and Isotopes preshipment inspections
will be done by the shipper and/or carrier to ensure conformity with regulatory
standards. Inspections may be done at the discretion of the States and Tribes, in
accordance with CVSA North American Standard Inspection (Level I) criteria, or
in accordance with individual State requirements.
4 CVSA is an organization that brings together Federal, State, and provincial government agencies and private
industry in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and is dedicated to improving commercial vehicle safety.
37 DOE M 460.2-1A
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11.2.2 Classified National Security Shipments
DOE’s fleet of vehicles, operated by the OST, transports classified shipments. All OST
vehicles are required to undergo a complete maintenance inspection prior to transporting
national security shipments. The vehicle safety inspection standards used by the OST
meet or exceed those contained in the CVSA Level VI inspection. The provisions of
49 CFR 173.7(b) exclude national security shipments from coverage by requirements set
forth in 49 CFR 171 through 189. Security and technical considerations for these
shipments do not permit adherence to all of the regulations. However, as a good practice,
the OST voluntarily follows those requirements that are compatible with security and
technical requirements.
Section 25
11.3 Classified and Non-Classified Rail Inspections
11.3.1 Spent Nuclear Fuel and High-Level Waste
Transport equipment and radiological inspections will be performed at the origin facility
prior to every shipment. These inspections may be performed by Federal, State, or carrier
inspectors and will be conducted to ensure conformity with applicable Federal and State
regulations, AAR rules, and industry standards. Specifically, equipment inspectors will
conduct an inspection of the cask and idler (buffer) cars and the escort vehicle (if used) at
the point of origin to ensure conformity with the Safety Appliance, Power Brake, and
Freight Car FRA Standards, and industry rules and recommended practices. Hazardous
materials inspectors will conduct an inspection of the cask and cask car to ensure
conformity with applicable Hazardous Materials Regulations concerning placarding,
shipping papers, crew notification, train placement, and securement requirements. For
classified shipments (e.g., Naval spent fuel shipments) special arrangements with the
DOE shipper will be required for a Federal or State inspection at an origin. A shipment
cannot proceed if it does not meet applicable requirements.
Inspections may be performed en route at suitable, scheduled stopping locations (e.g., rail
yards, crew change points, refueling locations) by the FRA and State agencies through
the FRA State participation program. Tribes may also participate in inspections through
the State participation program, by agreement with the affected State.
The receiver will conduct post-shipment inspections in accordance with applicable
regulations. The receiving state may conduct an inspection at the receiving site. Any
post-shipment inspection that reveals a regulatory non-conformity will be handled in
accordance with applicable requirements. Routinely, the package, its tie-downs, and
associated transportation system hardware are visually inspected at the point of
destination to ensure that no physical damage occurred during transit.
11.3.2 Transuranic Waste Shipments
No rail shipments of TRU Waste are currently planned. If shipments are contemplated
using protocols other than those agreed to for TRU waste shipments to WIPP
38 DOE M 460.2-1A
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negotiations will be held with affected states and tribes prior to the commencement of
shipments.
11.3.3 Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste
Equipment inspections may be performed by the FRA and State agencies through the
FRA State participation program. Hazardous material inspections may be performed by
appropriate State agencies.
39 DOE M 460.2-1A
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12.0 SAFE PARKING
12.1 Introduction
This section addresses the criteria to be used in selecting appropriate safe parking locations in
the event that transportation operational contingencies occur as described in the Transportation
Operational Contingencies section of this Manual. Safe parking is the process used to identify
and designate parking locations and to identify criteria for selecting parking areas if a
predesignated location cannot be reached. State, Tribal, and local law enforcement personnel
have the authority to direct shipments to specific parking areas.
12.2 Safe Parking—Highway
12.2.1 Non-Classified Shipments
Section 26
a. Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components,
and Transuranic Waste. Safe parking areas will be selected prior to the initiation
of the shipment in consultation with the States and Tribes through which the
shipments pass. If State or Tribal officials (normally, law enforcement personnel)
determine that a route deviation rather than safe parking is necessary, they can
inform the driver or carrier through direct contact or through TRANSCOM or
alternate tracking system.
WIPP shipping protocols provide detailed agreements between the CBFO and
states and tribes on graduated approach to safe parking, listing the most favorable
locations and locations to be avoided when seeking safe parking.
The two key factors in selecting a safe parking area are desirability of a particular
type of parking area and driver/crew ability to reach that parking area under
different types of conditions related to the local weather, road conditions and
factors causing the unanticipated delay or emergency.
To the extent practicable, safe parking areas selected should provide—
• adequate separation from other vehicles carrying hazardous materials,
• required security (e.g., lighting), and
• adequate driver/crew services.
Carriers should first consider parking at a DOE facility or other Federal facility,
as identified in the applicable transportation plan. States and Tribes may also
specify facilities to be used, such as weigh stations, State highway service
facilities, and National Guard facilities.
If none of these choices can be reached safely, the following avoidance factors
should be applied in selecting a suitable safe parking location. However, it may
40 DOE M 460.2-1A
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not be possible to locate a parking site that meets all of the criteria listed. The
carrier should attempt to avoid—
• heavily populated areas,
• heavily industrialized areas (e.g., refineries),
• hospitals and schools,
• areas with difficult access (e.g., no room for fire equipment),
• crowded parking areas (e.g., shopping malls),
• residential areas,
• highway shoulders, and
• areas with numerous pedestrians.
For shipments covered by a transportation plan, the plan will identify safe parking
areas. The carrier must not be parked on or within 5 feet of the traveled portion
of a public street or highway except for brief periods when the necessities of
operation require the vehicle to be parked and make it impracticable to park the
vehicle in any other place.
b. Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste
Carriers are expected to exercise due caution and care in selecting parking
locations, following normal operating practices and the requirements of the DOT
safety regulations. The provisions of 49 CFR 397.7(b) state that hazardous
materials must not be parked on or within 5 feet of the traveled portion of a public
street or highway except for brief periods when the necessities of operation
require the vehicle to be parked and make it impracticable to park the vehicle in
any other place.
c. Isotopes
Safe parking locations will be determined by the carrier following normal
operating practices, including the applicable requirements set forth in 49 CFR.
12.2.2 Classified National Security Shipments
The OST has in effect a safe havens agreement with the Department of Defense (DoD)
and can also use DOE facilities for such protected parking. Also, safe parking can be
arranged with the assistance of State and/or local police. The OST will notify a State for
assistance in locating safe parking if DOE and DoD facilities are unavailable; however,
the OST will exhaust all efforts to use DOE and DoD facilities first.
Section 27
41 DOE M 460.2-1A
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12.3 Safe Parking—Rail
To the extent practicable, safe parking areas should be selected to provide adequate separation
from other hazardous materials and to facilitate required security. In the event of adverse
operating conditions, the carrier would decide where to locate the affected railcars. Within a
DOE facility is the most desirable location, and another Federal facility is a secondary option;
the third choice would be a protected “siding,” a safe, secure position along the track controlled
by the railroad. Any additional security required from the State, Tribal, or local law enforcement
will be coordinated by the shipper and/or the rail carrier. Specific transportation plans may
specify additional criteria.
42 DOE M 460.2-1A
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13.0 EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION
13.1 Introduction
This section of the Manual addresses the process DOE uses to notify State and Tribal officials of
a transportation emergency involving DOE radioactive materials. It does not address the initial
notifications made by the carrier or others to local emergency response organizations.
Emergency notifications to State and Tribal points of contact occur after DOE, as the shipper,
receives notification of an emergency. Notification to DOE may come from local responders or
others (see section 13.3). This guidance applies to all classified and non-classified DOE rail and
highway shipments of radioactive material.
13.2 Criteria for Emergency Notification
Criteria to identify a situation as an emergency include the following:
• a person is killed, or
• a person requires hospitalization due to major injuries received as a direct result of the
radioactive material or an accident, or
• an evacuation of the general public, or
• one or more major transportation arteries are closed or facilities are shut down as a direct
result of the radioactive material cargo, or
• fire, potential release, or suspected radioactive contamination involving a radioactive
material shipment, or
• a security incident (i.e., sabotage, theft).
Additional specific criteria may be included in programmatic transportation plans.
If DOE, as the shipper, is notified of an event that does not clearly meet the reporting criteria
listed above, DOE will determine whether notification to State and Tribal points of contact is
appropriate. For example, an event that does not meet any of the above criteria but might
generate an unusual level of public and/or media attention would typically warrant notification.
Any uncertainty as to whether a notification should or should not be made will be resolved by
making the notification.
13.3 Emergency Notification Responsibilities
13.3.1 DOE, as the shipper, will receive Notification of an accident/incident from one of the
following sources:
• driver, dispatcher, and/or Government escort;
43 DOE M 460.2-1A
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• State/Tribal/local law enforcement, emergency medical, fire, and/or rescue
personnel; or
• satellite tracking system (e.g., TRANSCOM), when in use.
13.3.2 When notified of an emergency situation based on the criteria identified above, the DOE
shipper will conduct the following notifications in accordance with applicable DOE
requirements:
• designated State and/or Tribal 24-hour points of contact (where the event occurs);
• the cognizant DOE Radiological Assistance Program Regional Response
Coordinator (RRC), which may notify additional State/Tribal contacts within their
respective regions (e.g., adjacent States and Tribes); and
Section 28
• appropriate DOE organizations, including the DOE receiving site and the DOE
Headquarters Watch Office.
The DOE shipper will make other applicable notifications in accordance with existing
site transportation emergency plans, memorandums of agreement, or campaign-specific
transportation plans. When TRANSCOM is utilized (or equivalent system), electronic
notification may be provided to the corridor States by TRANSCOM in addition to
telephone contacts identified above.
13.3.3 For TRU waste shipments, in addition to the notifications identified in Section 13.3.2,
notification will be provided to additional State and/or Tribal organizations’ points of
contact (where the event occurs), as specified in the WIPP Transportation Manual. In the
event that NRC-approved packaging is damaged, the WIPP contractor will notify the
NRC in accordance with 10 CFR 71.95.
13.3.4 For OCRWM shipments, OCRWM will notify the NRC. These notifications will be in
addition to the notifications identified in Section 13.3.2.
13.3.5 The DOE Headquarters Watch Office will notify DOE field offices and Headquarters
organizations of other appropriate Federal agencies. The DOE Headquarters Watch
Office and other DOE field elements will assist, as requested, in making emergency
notifications. DOE field elements may also notify appropriate regional offices of other
Federal agencies.
13.3.6 In addition to the notifications described above, DOE Headquarters and/or field elements
will inform appropriate elected officials.
13.3.7 Follow-up communication is covered in the Emergency Response section.
44 DOE M 460.2-1A
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13.4 Type of Information to Be Provided
During the notification process, the type of information to be provided as it becomes available
should include:
• identity of the caller and call-back telephone number;
• location, date, and time of the event;
• brief description of the event, including hazards of the material being shipped, injuries,
environmental releases and/or personnel exposures, protective actions implemented,
protective actions recommended, on-scene responders;
• other notifications that have been made, including media interest.
13.5 Maintenance of State/Tribal 24-Hour Point-of-Contact List
The DOE Headquarters National TEPP Coordinator will maintain a central database that
contains the 24-hour emergency points of contact for States and Tribes. DOE shippers may
access the list of points of contact through the Internet (www.em.doe.gov/otem/program.html).
The database is reviewed twice a year and the DOE Regional TEPP Coordinators must provide
interim changes throughout the year.
For OST classified shipments, the OST sends out a formal request every 2 years to all State
governors in the continental United States for emergency points of contact. These numbers are
maintained in the OST TECC control center.
13.6 Non-Emergency Events
In addition to emergency notifications discussed in this section, specific DOE organizations, in
cooperation with State and Tribal organizations may provide additional notifications in response
to non-emergency events, such as vehicle breakdowns. Such notifications will be made in
accordance with the Transportation Operational Contingencies section.
www.em.doe.gov/otem/program.html
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14.0 EMERGENCY RESPONSE
14.1 Introduction
Section 29
This section addresses DOE response to a transportation emergency involving DOE rail and
highway shipments (classified and unclassified) of radioactive materials. It includes ongoing
interactions with State, Tribal, and local officials as part of incident crisis communications. It is
recognized that local government officials and agencies play a key role in transportation
emergency response, likely initiating the response. Emergency response includes the actions
taken by DOE in a transportation emergency as described in the Emergency Notification section.
14.2 DOE Assistance
DOE will provide assistance in accordance with Federal statutes and regulations to support State,
Tribal, and local authorities. State, Tribal, and local governments have the primary responsibility
and authority to respond to and manage emergencies within their jurisdiction. The establishment
of the incident command system will be in accordance with the plan, protocols, and procedures
of the State, Tribe, or local jurisdiction and in accordance with the National Incident
Management System. If the incident involves an OST classified shipment, the OST will
establish a unified command to work closely with State/local incident command.
14.3 Emergency Response
14.3.1 When an emergency occurs, the cognizant DOE organization or shipper will:
a. Make emergency notifications to designated State and Tribal points of contact;
b. Conduct follow-up communication on DOE activities (i.e., situation updates and
reports, status updates on recovery planning and termination of the event) with
States and Tribes as needed for that particular incident;
c. Provide shipment-specific emergency information and access to DOE/contractor
personnel for technical advice and detailed information as requested by on-scene
response personnel;
d. Implement transportation emergency response procedures (e.g., activating site
emergency organizations or operations centers, declaring an operational
emergency, activating site-specific transportation emergency plans, escorts).
Site-specific procedures may be addressed in transportation plans or a
campaign-specific plan; and
e. Assist in the coordination of DOE resources to provide additional radiological
support/technical assistance if requested.
(1) Radiological assistance will be coordinated by the RRC. The shipper may
provide assistance with coordination and provision of additional
radiological assessment, as needed.
46 DOE M 460.2-1A
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(2) The shipper will coordinate with DOE Headquarters and the appropriate
RRC to identify additional DOE technical resources (programmatic,
public information, emergency communication capability, and/or security
personnel) to be deployed to the incident scene. These DOE
representatives will provide additional technical assistance/support to the
Incident Commander.
(3) For TRU Waste shipments, the shipper may call upon the
Incident/Accident Response Team, which will—
(a) provide technical expertise in determining the status of the
packages and transporter including the tractor/trailer used in the
shipment;
(b) assist the carrier, through the senior onsite DOE official, in the
development of the incident site-specific recovery plan; and
(c) provide oversight of the TRU-waste carrier’s cleanup operations.
Section 30
f. Coordinate with DOE Headquarters (cognizant program office and the Office of
Emergency Response within NNSA), the cognizant DOE field office, and the
cognizant RRC in the affected region to designate a Federal On-scene
Coordinator/Commander and/or Senior Energy Official, as applicable, and
conduct activities if an emergency occurs that warrants a Federal response under
an applicable Federal plan, e.g., the National Contingency Plan
(hazardous/radioactive material response), the Nuclear/Radiological Incident
Annex (radiological response), the National Response Plan.
g. Assist in the coordination of DOE resources to provide information to the public
regarding the emergency and the response.
h. Provide information about the shipment, general public hazard, and other
information as requested by the incident commander or responder to support
public information needs for non-classified shipments. It is expected that the
on-scene local, State, or Tribal incident commander or responder will release
appropriate public information according to established local, State, or Tribal
emergency preparedness communications plans.
i. Determine if a DOE Public Information Officer (PIO) needs to be sent to the
incident site and coordinate with the DOE Office of Congressional and
Intergovernmental Affairs (CI) as necessary. The public information officer
would report to the incident commander and serve as the DOE public information
liaison between the scene and appropriate DOE offices. The DOE PIO will assist
the incident commander or his/her public information officer in public
information and media activities with the local, State, and Tribal authorities.
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j. If a Joint Information Center (JIC) is established by the on-scene commander, the
DOE PIO will report to the JIC and support public information efforts.
k. The DOE PIO will provide copies of statements and news releases and provide
updates about the incident and the response as needed to the public information
points of contact.
l. The cognizant DOE organization, in coordination with the DOE shipper and the
Office of Public Affairs, will issue statements or news releases about the incident
as deemed appropriate, in a timely manner, appropriate to the severity of the
event. DOE organizations should attempt to review news releases or statements
that reference State, Tribal, or local actions with the appropriate authority before
release. Likewise, DOE organizations should attempt to review news releases or
statements from State, Tribal, or local authorities that describe the DOE shipment
or DOE actions before release.
m. In a transportation accident or incident involving a classified national security
shipment, public information will be handled by the DOE representative on-scene
until a DOE PIO arrives. Public information will be under the control of the
Senior Energy Official on-scene until relieved. All public information releases
will be coordinated with the DOE/NNSA CI; releases regarding Naval spent fuel
shipments will be coordinated with the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program.
Sufficient non-classified information will be provided to explain the emergency
and any protective actions required for health and safety of workers, the public,
and the environment.
14.3.2 In accordance with DOT requirements, a commercial carrier, as part of the emergency
response, will—
a. promptly notify the DOE shipper’s 24-hour emergency response notification
number when an emergency has occurred;
Section 31
b. forward any calls to the DOE shipper from emergency responders seeking
technical advice and detailed information regarding the shipment;
c. give notice to DOT if required by 49 CFR 171.15; and
d. respond to the requests of State, Tribal, and local government authorities
regarding recovery activities and coordinate activities with the DOE shipper.
During an emergency, the DOE shipper will work with the carrier to maximize
effectiveness of the carrier's response.
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14.3.3 The cognizant DOE RRC will:
a. Provide radiological assistance, including deployment of RAP teams, upon
request of DOE or appropriate state, tribal or local authority. Support for
radiological assistance will be coordinated with NNSA Headquarters and the
shipper. Assistance for radiological monitoring may be requested from the
appropriate DOE RRC (see map attached to Emergency Planning section).
b. Assist in the coordination of other radiological assets (e.g., Aerial Measurement
System, National Atmospheric Release Advisory Center, Federal Radiological
Monitoring and Assessment Center, Radiation Emergency Assistance
Center/Training Site).
14.3.4 Additional DOE response activities may be identified in DOE site transportation
emergency plans, memorandums of agreement, campaign-specific transportation plans,
or emergency response plans.
49 DOE M 460.2-1A
6-4-08
15.0 RECOVERY AND CLEANUP
15.1 Introduction
This section addresses post-emergency actions taken to recover and clean up from an accident or
incident involving shipments of DOE radioactive materials. Carriers have primary responsibility
for recovery and cleanup, and will coordinate with State, Tribal, and local agencies regarding
these activities. DOE will coordinate with carriers, and with State, Tribal, and local authorities to
ensure that cleanup is done to an acceptable level in accordance with hazardous waste
regulations.
15.2 Highway
All commercial carriers of radioactive material must meet the financial requirements that are set
out in 49 CFR 387.7 and in the amounts set in 387.9. In addition, coverage for nuclear damage
resulting from a nuclear incident would be provided under provisions of the Price-Anderson
Amendments Act (Public Law 100-408). Additionally, the Nuclear/Radiological Incident Annex
describes incident management activities related to nuclear/radiological incidents.
15.2.1 Non-Classified Shipments
a. Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components,
and Transuranic Waste Shipments.
DOE will ensure that carriers have specific written procedures for providing
recovery and cleanup in the event of an accident or incident, or that they have a
contract with a remediation company.
For spent nuclear fuel shipments subject to the NWPA, DOE will require the
carrier of spent nuclear fuel to follow ANSI N14.27 (“For Truckload Quantities of
Radioactive Materials—Carrier and Shipper Responsibilities and Emergency
Response Procedures for Highway Transportation Accidents”) regarding recovery
and cleanup activities. (ANSI N14.27 requires the carrier to provide appropriate
resources for dealing with the consequences of an accident, including isolating
and cleaning up spills, and to maintain working contact with the responsible
governmental authority until the latter has declared the incident to be
satisfactorily resolved and closed.)
b. Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste.
DOE will review truckload carriers’ plans for recovery and cleanup or verify that
they have a contract with a remediation company.
Section 32
c. Isotopes.
Commercial carriers will act in accordance with 49 CFR 387.7.
50 DOE M 460.2-1A
6-4-08
15.2.2 Classified National Security Shipments
The OST has contingencies in place that address recovery issues. DOE or the OST will
provide the personnel and equipment needed to perform recovery and cleanup operations.
15.3 Rail
For spent nuclear fuel, high-level waste, inter-site TRU waste, LLW, and MLLW shipments,
DOE will ensure that rail carriers have specific written procedures for providing recovery and
cleanup in the event of an accident or incident. In addition, coverage for nuclear damage from a
nuclear incident would be provided under provisions of the Price-Anderson Amendment Act.
DOE M 460.2-1A Attachment 1
6-4-08 Page 1
CONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS DOCUMENT
DOE M 460.2-1A, Radioactive Material Transportation Practices Manual
Contractors performing transportation and packaging work for the Department of Energy (DOE),
including the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), must act in accordance with
requirements that pertain to radioactive material. Regardless of the performer of the work, the
contractor is responsible for compliance with the requirements of this CRD. The contractor is
responsible for flowing down the requirements of this CRD to subcontractors at any tier to the
extent necessary to ensure the contractors’ compliance with the requirements. The contractor
must follow these additional requirements for radioactive material and radioactive waste:
1. General. Notwithstanding the exemption available through the National Security
Provision [Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), part 173.7(b)], all shipments
will be undertaken in accordance with the requirements of 49 CFR 100–185, except those
that infringe upon maintenance of classified information.
2. Transportation of Radioactive Material and Radioactive Waste. Specific requirements
that must be followed include:
a. Transportation Planning. The contractor must prepare a transportation plan with
information on shipments of spent nuclear fuel (SNF), high-level waste (HLW),
tritium-bearing reactor components, and transuranic (TRU) waste shipments and
submit it to the appropriate field element. (TRU waste shipments shall follow the
WIPP Transportation Plan (DOE/CBFO 98-3103)). Transportation plans describe
operational strategy and delineate steps that will be taken to meet applicable
regulatory and DOE requirements. Specific contents of transportation plans are
determined by the program office and/or operations office, but should include
organizational roles and responsibilities, material to be shipped, projected
shipping dates, estimated number of shipments, mode of transport and carriers to
be used, packages to be used, preferred and/or alternative routes, shipment
pre-notifications required, safe parking arrangements, tracking systems that will
be used, emergency preparedness and response plans, recovery and cleanup
strategy, security and escort arrangements, and a public information plan.
At the direction of the responsible program office or field element, the contractor
must prepare a transportation plan for low-level and mixed low-level, or other
radioactive shipments. The contractor must also assist in preparing public
information materials such as fact sheets, briefing packages, press releases, etc.
Section 33
b. Routing. For nonclassified shipments (by highway and rail) of spent nuclear fuel,
high-level waste, and tritium-bearing reactor components, the contractor must
perform an analysis of proposed routes using transportation models such as
Transportation Routing Analysis Geographic Information System.
c. Security. The contractor must ensure that a security plan is developed and
includes an assessment of possible transportation security risks for radioactive
Attachment 1 DOE M 460.2-1A
Page 2 6-4-08
shipments. The plan must contain sufficient background to understand the nature
of threats against the radioactive shipment, the means to identify the
vulnerabilities to those threats; and an approach to address the vulnerabilities.
(1) For shipments of SNF and HLW, security will be provided in accordance
with the requirements set forth in 10 CFR 73. The contractor must ensure
that in-transit requirements are addressed, including developing security
plans, implementing physical security access controls, training, escorts,
inspections, tracking, communications, and employee background checks.
Transport security must be coordinated with State and Tribal law
enforcement officials and the involved railroad and motor carriers.
(2) For shipments of low-level waste, mixed low-level waste, and other
radioactive shipments, the contractor will develop a security plan when
required by 49 CFR 172.800.
d. Carrier/Driver Requirements. Upon request from the field element or DOE, the
contractor must evaluate carriers. For carriers that transport highway route
controlled quantities of radioactive material in less-than-truckload or truckload
(TL) quantities, any TL quantities of radioactive material will be evaluated by the
contractor. A copy of the evaluation document must be provided by the contractor
to the field element within 30 days after completion of the carrier evaluation.
e. Shipment Prenotification. Before shipping SNF or HLW within or through a State
or tribal jurisdiction, the contractor must prepare a letter, to be sent by registered
mail with return receipt, to the State Governor (or the Governor’s designee) and
tribal President or Governor (or tribal designee) postmarked at least 7 days before
the shipment. Alternatively, a notification may be delivered by messenger to these
same representatives at least 4 days before a shipment is transported within or
through the State or tribal jurisdiction. A record must be retained in the shipping
records file that includes the names of the persons contacted and the dates and
times of the contacts. For low-level or mixed-low level waste, or other radioactive
shipments, the contractor must provide notifications to affected States based on
negotiated agreements.
f. Transportation Operational Contingencies. For SNF, HLW, tritium-bearing
reactor components, and transuranic waste shipments, the contractor must concur
with the carrier that travel conditions are considered acceptable before dispatch
and consider information provided by States or Tribes regarding weather or road
conditions. In the event of any substantial unanticipated delay in transit (greater
than 2 hours), the contractor must notify the affected States and Tribes of the
event through the DOE Transportation Tracking and Communications System
(TRANSCOM).
g. Tracking. The contractor must use TRANSCOM for tracking and monitoring the
following categories of shipments:
DOE M 460.2-1A Attachment 1
6-4-08 Page 3 (and Page 4)
Section 34
(1) spent nuclear fuel (see DOE M 5632.1C-1, Manual for Protection and
Control of Safeguards and Security Interests, Chapter IV);
(2) tritium-bearing reactor components;
(3) high-level waste; and
(4) transuranic waste (unless other arrangements have been made).
h. Inspections. The contractor must ensure preshipment inspections are done by the
shipper and/or carrier to ensure that shipments meet the regulatory standards. For
highway shipments of spent nuclear fuel, high-level waste, tritium-bearing reactor
components, and transuranic waste, the contractor must ensure shipments are
made available, before departure, for inspection by certified State inspectors
(Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance Enhanced North American Standard
Inspection Procedures (Level VI)) unless other arrangements have been made
with the State.
i. Recovery and Cleanup. The contractor must review truckload carriers’ plans for
recovery and cleanup or verify they have a contract with a remediation company.
For shipments of SNF, HLW, tritium-bearing reactor components, and transuranic
waste, the contractor must ensure carriers have specific written plans and
procedures for providing recovery and cleanup in the event of an accident or
incident.
DOE M 460.2-1A Attachment 2
6-4-08 Page 1
GLOSSARY
Note: The following definitions are provided for the convenience of the reader in understanding
the usage of these terms within this document. These definitions apply only to this document.
Where available, the sources of the definitions are shown in parenthesis.
Carrier. An entity engaged in the transportation of passengers or property by land or water as a
common, contract, or private carrier, or by civil aircraft (49 CFR 171.8). (A common carrier is a
for-hire carrier that holds itself out to serve the general public at published rates. A contract
carrier offers transportation services to certain shippers under contracts that specify charges to be
applied, the character of the service, and the time of performance.)
Classified National Security Shipments. Classified shipments of nuclear explosives, nuclear
weapons, nuclear weapon components, strategic quantities of special nuclear materials, and
special assemblies and shipments of spent nuclear fuel from the Naval Nuclear Propulsion
Program.
Dedicated Train. A train where the cargo-carrying cars remain coupled from the point of origin
to the point of destination, except for routine rail switching and handling, and whose only freight
is a single commodity.
Environmental Restoration. Restitution for the loss, damage, or destruction of natural
resources arising out of the accidental discharge, dispersal, release, or escape into or upon the
land, atmosphere, watercourse, or body of water of any commodity transported by a motor
carrier. This includes the cost of removal and the cost of necessary measures taken to
minimize or mitigate damage to human health, the natural environment, fish, shellfish, and
wildlife. (49 CFR 387.5)
High-level Waste. The highly radioactive waste material that results from the reprocessing of
spent nuclear fuel in a commercial or defense facility, including liquid waste produced directly
in reprocessing and any solid waste derived from the liquid, that contains a combination of
TRU waste and fission products in concentrations requiring permanent isolation. (See
10 CFR 960.2)
Section 35
Highway Route Controlled Quantity. A quantity of radioactive material within a single package
that exceeds 3,000 times that allowed in a Type A package or is greater than 1,000 Tbq
(27,000 Ci), whichever is least. (See 49 CFR 173.403)
Isotopes. Radioactive materials produced by DOE’s Isotopes Programs to be used for medical,
industrial, or research purposes.
Low-level Waste. Radioactive waste that is not high-level radioactive waste, spent nuclear fuel,
transuranic waste, byproduct material (as defined in section 11e(2) of the Atomic Energy Act of
1954, as amended), or naturally occurring radioactive material. (DOE M 435.1-1)
Mixed Low-level Waste. Waste that contains both source, special nuclear, or by-product material
subject to the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended, and a hazardous component subject to the
Attachment 2 DOE M 460.2-1A
Page 2 6-4-08
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. [Adapted from: Federal Facility Compliance Act of
1992]
Prospective Shipments Module. A document which provides information on prospective DOE
radioactive materials shipments, including spent nuclear fuel and highway route controlled
quantity shipping campaigns, and other high-visibility radioactive materials shipments as
designated by DOE.
Radioactive Material. Any material containing radionuclides where both the activity
concentration and the total activity in the consignment exceed the values specified in the table in
§173.436 or values derived according to the instructions in §173.433. (See 49 CFR 173.403)
Radioactive Waste. Material that contains radionuclides regulated under the Atomic Energy Act
of 1954, as amended, for which no further use is intended.
Shipment Safeguards Information. An integrated system of physical protection, material
accounting, and material control measures designed to deter, prevent, detect, and respond to
unauthorized possession, use or sabotage of nuclear materials. Information that specifically
identifies measures taken for the physical protection of special nuclear material, or measures
taken for the physical protection of equipment vital to the safety of operations at fixed sites and
in transit. Safeguards information includes the transportation physical security plan; schedules
and itineraries for specific shipments; details of vehicle immobilization features, intrusion alarm
devices, and communication systems; arrangements with, and capabilities of, local police
response forces; locations of safe parking; details regarding limitations of radio-telephone
communications; and procedures for response to safeguards emergencies.
Shipper. The entity (or its agent) that tenders a shipment for transportation. The term includes
persons who prepare packages for shipment, and offer packages to a carrier for transportation by
signature on the shipping paper. When a contractor signs a shipping paper on behalf of DOE,
DOE is considered to be the shipper of record.
Special Train. A train that includes operating or handling requirements specified by the shipper
and/or required by the rail carrier which are not typical of regular freight train service.
Spent Nuclear Fuel. Nuclear reactor fuel previously used as part of a fuel assembly to sustain
nuclear fission in a self-supporting chain reaction in excess of 100 grams in net weight, exclusive
of cladding or other structural or packaging material and has a dose rate exceeding 100 rems per
hour at a distance of 3 feet from any accessible surface without intervening shielding.
Section 36
Transuranic Waste. Waste contaminated with alpha-emitting transuranic radionuclides (elements
above uranium in the periodic table; that is, with an atomic number greater than 92) with
half-lives greater than 20 years and concentrations greater than 100 nanocuries per gram.
(40 CFR 191.02)
Tritium-bearing Reactor Components. Absorber rods that replace the normally used burnable
absorber rods (nuclear reactor rods used to capture or absorb neutrons) for the purpose of
producing tritium.
DOE M 460.2-1A Attachment 2
6-4-08 Page 3 (and Page 4)
Type A Packaging Packaging that, together with its radioactive contents limited to A1 or A2 as
appropriate, meets the requirements of 49 CFR 173.410 and 173.412 and is designed to retain the
integrity of containment and shielding required by 49 CFR 173.403 under normal conditions of
transport as demonstrated by the tests set for in 49 CFR 173.465 or 173.466. They are typically
constructed of steel, wood, or fiberboard, and generally have an inner containment vessel made
of glass, plastic, or metal surrounded with packing material made of polyethylene, rubber, or
vermiculite. Examples of material typically shipped in Type A Packages include nuclear
medicines (radiopharmaceuticals), radioactive waste, and radioactive sources used in industrial
applications.
Type B Packaging. Packaging designed to retain the integrity of containment and shielding by
regulation when subjected to the normal conditions of transport and hypothetical accident test
conditions set forth in 10 CFR Part 71. (49 CFR 173.403) Examples of Type B packagings are
TRUPACT-II, HalfPact, GE Model-2000, and the NAC-LWT cask. Type B packagings are used
to transport materials with high radioactivity levels including spent nuclear fuel; high-level
radioactive waste; cobalt sources, and other such radioisotopes.
Unclassified Controlled Nuclear Information. Certain unclassified but sensitive Government
information concerning nuclear material, weapons, and components whose dissemination is
controlled under section 148 of the Atomic Energy Act. (10 CFR 1017.3)
DOE M 460.2-1A Attachment 3
6-4-08 Page 1 (and Page 2)
ACRONYMS
ANSI American National Standards Institute
AAR Association of American Railroads
CBFO Carlsbad Field Office
CDL commercial driver’s license
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CI Office of Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs
CVSA Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance
DHS U.S. Department of Homeland Security
DoD U.S. Department of Defense
DOE U.S. Department of Energy
DOT U.S. Department of Transportation
FRA Federal Railroad Administration
HLW high-level waste
JIC Joint Information Command
LLW low-level waste
MERRTT Modular Emergency Response Radiological Transportation Training
MLLW mixed low-level waste
NEPA National Environmental Policy Act
NRC Nuclear Regulatory Commission
NNPP Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program
NNSA National Nuclear Security Administration
NWPA Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982, as amended
OCRWM Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management
OST Office of Secure Transportation
OUO Official Use Only
PIO Public Information Officer
RAP Radiological Assistance Program
RRC Regional Response Coordinator
SNF spent nuclear fuel
TEC/WG Transportation External Coordination Working Group
TECC Transportation Emergency Communications Center
TEPP Transportation Emergency Preparedness Program
TL truckload
TRAGIS Transportation Routing Analysis Geographic Information System
TRANSCOM Transportation Tracking and Communications System
TRU transuranic
UCNI Unclassified Controlled Nuclear Information
WIPP Waste Isolation Pilot Plant
Section 37
DOE M 460.2-1A Attachment 4
6-4-08 Page 1
SUMMARY OF RESOURCES
In fulfilling its diverse civilian and defense missions, the DOE transports various types of
radioactive materials and wastes around the country. Types of radiological shipments include
materials and isotopes for medical, industrial, and research uses; weapons and weapons-related
materials; radioactive waste; plutonium residues and oxides; highly enriched uranium; spent
nuclear fuel; and new (unirradiated or unused) nuclear fuel. Each DOE organization has
additional information available on the internet. Key sites include:
Office of Environmental Management: In 1989, the Department of Energy created the Office of
Environmental Management (EM) to mitigate the risks and hazards posed by the legacy of
nuclear weapons production and research. Although the nation continues to maintain an arsenal
of nuclear weapons, as well as some production capability, the United States has embarked on
new missions. The most ambitious and far ranging of these missions is dealing with the
environmental legacy of the Cold War. Like most industrial and manufacturing operations, the
nuclear complex has generated waste, pollution, and contamination. However, many problems
posed by its operations are unique. They include unprecedented amounts of contaminated waste,
water, and soil, and a vast number of contaminated structures that will remain radioactive for
thousands of years. http://www.em.doe.gov/pages/emhome.aspx
• Office of Transportation. http://www.em.doe.gov/Pages/Transportation.aspx From this
site, you can follow the links to:
o Transportation Emergency Preparedness Program
(http://www.em.doe.gov/TEPPPages/TEPPHome.aspx) From this web site, you
can access the 24-hour points of contact, and other related TEPP information.
o Fact Sheets and publications covering transportation, packaging and regulations
for shipping radioactive materials/wastes.
o Transportation Routing Analysis Geographic Information System (TRAGIS) is a
routing analysis tool combining graphical interfaces with an extensive highway,
rail, and waterway database. TRAGIS can be used to calculate detailed routes
based on user-specified parameters, and replace the legacy HIGHWAY and
INTERLINE routing models. https://tragis.ornl.gov/tragis.htm
o RADTRAN is the national and international standard for transportation risk
assessment for radioactive materials. RADTRAN combines user-determined
demographic, routing, transportation, packaging, and materials data with
meteorological data (partly user-determined) and health physics data to calculate
expected radiological consequences of incident-free radioactive materials
transportation and associated accident risks. https://radtran.sandia.gov/
• The Waste Isolation Pilot Plant, or WIPP, is the world's first underground repository
licensed to safely and permanently dispose of transuranic radioactive waste left from the
http:https://radtran.sandia.gov
https://tragis.ornl.gov/tragis.htm
http://www.em.doe.gov/TEPPPages/TEPPHome.aspx
http://www.em.doe.gov/Pages/Transportation.aspx
http://www.em.doe.gov/pages/emhome.aspx
Attachment 4 DOE M 460.2-1A
Page 2 6-4-08
research and production of nuclear weapons. WIPP began operations on March 26, 1999.
http://www.wipp.energy.gov/
Section 38
• TRANSCOM2000 is the Department of Energy (DOE) Tracking and Communications
System used to monitor the progress of various unclassified “high visibility” shipments,
such as spent nuclear fuel, high-level and transuranic radioactive waste. With a
demonstrated 99.8% reliability this nationwide 24-hour per day tracking system
combines satellite and ground-based communications to monitor the progress of DOE
truck, rail, barge, and ocean vessel shipments in near real time. TRANSCOM2000 has
been used to monitor over 7,500 DOE high visibility shipments since its deployment in
September 2001. The TRANSCOM2000 system is administered by the DOE Office of
Environmental Management. The TRANSCOM2000 Communications Center is located
in Carlsbad, New Mexico. For additional information contact TRANSCOM2000 Federal
Program Manager at (505) 234-7372 or visit the website at:
http://tcc.transcom.energy.gov/
• Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management is responsible for developing and
managing a federal system for disposing of spent nuclear fuel from commercial nuclear
reactors and high-level radioactive waste from national defense activities.
http://www.ocrwm.doe.gov/about/index.shtml From this site, you can access information
on:
o Transportation Exhibit
o Transportation Strategic Plan (PDF)
o Safe Passage: An Overview of Plans for the Railroad to Yucca Mountain
o Transportation of Spent Nuclear Fuel and High-Level Radioactive Waste to
Yucca Mountain, Frequently Asked Questions—This brochure provides
information about transportation of radioactive waste to the proposed repository
at Yucca Mountain, for permanent disposal. Topics covered include basics on
radioactive waste, transportation safety and security, the transportation system
infrastructure and emergency planning and response.
o Transportation External Coordination Working Group
http://tecworkinggroup.org/
http:http://tecworkinggroup.org
http://www.ocrwm.doe.gov/about/index.shtml
http:http://tcc.transcom.energy.gov
http:http://www.wipp.energy.gov
RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL TRANSPORTATION PRACTICES MANUAL
1. PURPOSE
2.CANCELLATION
3.APPLICABILITY
a.DOE Elements.
b.DOE Contractors
c.Exclusions
4. SUMMARY.
5.REFERENCES
6.CONTACT
CONTENTS
1.0 TRANSPORTATION PRACTICES
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Background on DOE Shipments
1.3 Requirements
1.4 Shipments Covered by this Manual
2.0 TRANSPORTATION PLANNING
2.1 Introduction
2.2. Material Characterization and Classification
2.3 Identification of Programmatic Needs and Applicable Requirements
2.4 Packaging Selection
2.5 Mode and Carrier Selection
2.5.1 Spent Nuclear Fuel and High-Level Waste.
2.5.2 OCRWM SNF and HLW shipments to a repository at Yucca Mountain, Nevada.
2.6 Transportation Plans
2.6.1 Non-Classified Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components, and Transuranic Waste Shipments.
2.6.2 Low-Level Waste, Mixed Low-Level Waste, and Other Radioactive Material.
2.7 Communications Plans
2.7.1. Non-Classified Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, Transuranic Waste Shipments, and Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components.
2.7.2 Other Non-Classified Shipments Of Low-Level Waste, Mixed Low-Level Waste, And Other Radioactive Materials.
2.7.3 Classified National Security Shipments.
3.0 EMERGENCY PLANNING
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Emergency Planning
3.2.1 The regional TEPP coordinator
3.2.3 Program-specific planning activities
Section 39
3.3 Training
3.3.1 Transportation Emergency Preparedness Program
3.3.2 Program-specific training activities
a.Office of Secure Transportation
b.WIPP
c.Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management.
d.The Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program
4.0 PROJECTED SHIPMENT PLANNING INFORMATION
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Planning Information
4.2.1 Non-Classified Shipments
d.Frequency of updates.
e.Method of providing information.
4.2.2 Classified National Security Shipments
5.0 ROUTING
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Highway Routing
5.2.1 Non-Classified Shipments
a.Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, and Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components
b.Transuranic Waste Shipments
c.Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste.
d.Isotopes.
5.2.2 Classified National Security Shipments
5.3 Rail Routing
5.3.1 Non-Classified Shipments
a. Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, and Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components
b. Transuranic Waste Shipments
c. Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste.
5.3.2 Classified National Security Shipments
6.0 SECURITY
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Non-Classified Shipments
6.2.1 Spent Nuclear Fuel and High-Level Waste
6.2.2 Low-Level Waste, Mixed Low-Level Waste, Isotopes
6.2.3 Transuranic Waste Shipments:
6.2.4 Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components
6.3 Classified National Security Shipments
6.3.1 Office of Secure Transportation Shipments
6.3.2 Naval Spent Fuel Shipments
7.0 CARRIER/DRIVER REQUIREMENTS
7.1 Introduction
7.2 Non-Classified Shipments
7.2.1 Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, and Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components.
7.2.2 Spent Nuclear Fuel Shipped Under the NWPA.
7.2.3 Transuranic Waste Shipments
7.2.4Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste.
7.2.5Isotopes.
7.3Classified National Security Shipments
7.4 Rail Carrier Requirements
8.0 SHIPMENT PRENOTIFICATION
8.1 Introduction
8.2 Non-Classified Shipments
8.2.1 Spent Nuclear Fuel and High-Level Waste.
8.2.2 Transuranic Waste Shipments.
8.2.3 Other DOE Shipments.
8.2.4 Additional Shipment Information Practices.
8.3 Classified National Security Shipments
9.0 TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONAL CONTINGENCIES
9.1 Introduction
9.2 Highway Contingencies
9.2.1 Non-Classified Shipments
a. Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components, and Transuranic Waste Shipments.
b.Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste.
c.Isotopes.
9.2.2 Classified National Security Shipments
9.3 Rail Contingencies
10.0 TRACKING
10.1 Introduction
10.2 Highway and Rail Modes
10.2.1 Non-Classified Shipments
a. Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components, and Transuranic Waste Shipments.
b. Low-Level Waste, Mixed Low-Level Waste and Isotopes
10.2.2 Classified National Security Shipments
11.0 INSPECTIONS
11.1 Introduction
11.2 Highway Inspections
11.2.1 Non-Classified Shipments
a. Spent Nuclear Fuel , High-Level Waste, Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components, and Transuranic Waste.
b. Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste and Isotopes
11.2.2 Classified National Security Shipments
11.3 Classified and Non-Classified Rail Inspections
11.3.1 Spent Nuclear Fuel and High-Level Waste
11.3.2 Transuranic Waste Shipments
11.3.3 Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste
12.0 SAFE PARKING
12.1 Introduction
12.2 Safe Parking—Highway
12.2.1 Non-Classified Shipments
a. Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components, and Transuranic Waste.
b. Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste
c. Isotopes
12.2.2 Classified National Security Shipments
12.3 Safe Parking—Rail
13.0 EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION
13.1 Introduction
13.2 Criteria for Emergency Notification
13.3 Emergency Notification Responsibilities
13.3.1 DOE, as the shipper,
13.3.2 When notified
13.3.3 For TRU waste shipments,
13.3.4 For OCRWM shipments,
13.3.5 The DOE Headquarters Watch Office
13.3.6 In addition to the notifications
13.3.7 Follow-up communication
13.4 Type of Information to Be Provided
13.5 Maintenance of State/Tribal 24-Hour Point-of-Contact List
13.6 Non-Emergency Events
14.0 EMERGENCY RESPONSE
14.1 Introduction
14.2 DOE Assistance
14.3 Emergency Response
14.3.1 When an emergency occurs,
a.Make emergency notifications
b.Conduct follow-up communication
c.Provide shipment-specific emergency information
d.Implement transportation emergency response procedures
e.Assist in the coordination
f.Coordinate with DOE Headquarters
.Assist in the coordination of DOE resources
h.Provide information about the shipment,
i.Determine if a DOE Public Information Officer (PIO) needs to be sent
Section 40
k.The DOE PIO
l.The cognizant DOE organization,
m.In a transportation accident
14.3.2 In accordance with DOT requirements,
14.3.3 The cognizant DOE RRC
14.3.4 Additional DOE response
15.0 RECOVERY AND CLEANUP
15.1 Introduction
15.2 Highway
15.2.1 Non-Classified Shipments
a.Spent Nuclear Fuel, High-Level Waste, Tritium-Bearing Reactor Components, and Transuranic Waste Shipments.
b.Low-Level and Mixed Low-Level Waste.
c.Isotopes.
15.2.2 Classified National Security Shipments
15.3 Rail
ATTACHMENT 1. CONTRACTOR REQUIREMENTS DOCUMENT
1.General.
2.Transportation of Radioactive Material and Radioactive Waste.
a. Transportation Planning.
b.Routing.
c.Security.
d.Carrier/Driver Requirements.
e.Shipment Prenotification.
or tribal jurisdiction, the contractor must prepare a letter, to be sent by registered mail with return receipt, to the State Governor (or the Governor’s designee) and tribal President or Governor (or tribal designee) postmarked at least 7 days before the shipment. Alternatively, a notification may be delivered by messenger to these same representatives at least 4 days before a shipment is transported within or through the State or tribal jurisdiction. A record must be retained in the shipping records file that includes the names of the persons contacted and the dates and times of the contacts. For low-level or mixed-low level waste, or other radioactive shipments, the contractor must provide notifications to affected States based on negotiated agreements.f.Transportation Operational Contingencies.
g.Tracking.
h.Inspections.
i.Recovery and Cleanup.
ATTACHMENT 2. GLOSSARY
ATTACHMENT 3. ACRONYMS
ATTACHMENT 4. SUMMARY OF RESOURCES