The Site was quite small, measuring approximately 25 feet by 25 feet, and 8 feet deep.
In the 1950s, the University was approached by the United States Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) to research the effects of low-level radionuclides for a better understanding of possible short- and long-term biological consequences from the use of atomic energy. The AEC issued multiple research contracts to FSU as part of a larger research program consisting of approximately 225 institutions which included universities, non-profit research institutions, and government agencies. While conducting this sponsored research, the University disposed of low-level radiation wastes at the Site (which was approved by the AEC) from 1958 to 1964 under its license for byproduct materials (AEC License # 9-367) and radiological waste (Florida State Board of Health License #32-10), and under the direction of the AEC. Solids containing radiological wastes, as well as containerized liquids and associated laboratory wastes, were placed into four excavated cells at the Site consistent with applicable state and federal requirements at the time.
In the 1950s until the late-1970’s, it was common practice to dispose of laboratory wastes, (e.g., chemicals and radionuclides), by placing them in controlled circumstances, such as in this case, under Florida Department of Health (FDOH) permits. At the time, the Site was located at the remote edge of FSU’s Southwest campus on what was formerly a dairy farm.
Yes. Such materials are unavoidable results of some specific and important research activities that are common to research universities, many of which are conducted under contracts with state and federal agencies that have specific management and reporting obligations.
State and federal waste management regulations have been in place since the 1980s. FSU continues to dispose of all such laboratory waste consistent with all state and federal requirements.
The materials that were disposed at the Site were placed in cells excavated in soil at a depth between 4 and 8 feet below ground surface, covered with clean soil from ground surface to 4 feet, and capped with a concrete slab. The materials were placed in containers of various types. The biological materials will naturally degrade or break down over time, though the type of container will influence how quickly that occurs. The chemicals, particularly those in liquid form, are believed to be principally in jars, bottles and similar vessels that would be expected to hold the contents unless they are broken.
Investigations performed on behalf of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) in 2003 did not detect impacts to soils. Groundwater was not encountered within the Site and is known to be present at a depth greater than 50 feet below ground surface. FDEP subsequently determined that no further action was necessary in relation to the Site.
No. However, detectable concentrations were present between 4 and 8 feet below ground surface within the disposal unit.
No. The Site sits on top of layers of silts and clays that are present downward at least 50 feet below ground surface, based on previous studies. These silts and clays act as a confining unit. Groundwater was not encountered below the Site at a depth shallower than 50 feet below ground surface.
Based on investigations and monitoring performed, human exposure and possible health risks were not occurring. However, in an abundance of caution and to eliminate any future concerns, FSU removed the waste from the Site and disposed of it in a licensed and permitted disposal facility out-of-state. These Site activities were performed in consultation with the FDEP and the FDOH.
As noted, FSU worked in cooperation with FDEP and FDOH to make decisions about technical solutions and the removal of the waste from the Site.
In June 2021, FSU removed the waste from the Site. The source removal was performed in accordance with applicable regulations and in coordination with FDEP and FDOH. Waste materials were packaged and transported in accordance with applicable regulations to a licensed and permitted disposal facility out-of-state.
No. All waste materials were removed from the Site.
No. Site activities were conducted to address historical conditions and to prevent any long-term effects. Those activities accomplished Site cleanup and were designed to ensure that the land can continue to be used for FSU purposes. FSU monitored the surface of the Site following removal of the waste materials and all readings have been indistinguishable from background levels of radiation.
Site cleanup cost approximately $184,420, and consisted of removing the source material and transporting it to the out-of-state disposal facility.
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