What does medium level radioactive waste typically require for disposal?

Medium-level radioactive waste typically requires long-term management and shielding because it can remain hazardous for an extended period. This type of waste often contains radioactive materials that emit radiation and, therefore, needs to be managed in a way that protects human health and the environment.

Long-term management involves storing the waste in secure facilities designed to contain the radiation and prevent exposure. This may include specialized containers or repositories, which provide adequate shielding to reduce radiation levels to safe limits. The facilities must also ensure that the waste remains isolated from the environment over the timescales that the radioactivity is a concern.

Choosing to bury or incinerate this type of waste without proper management would pose serious risks, as the radiation could contaminate soil and water sources or pose health risks to living organisms. Open-air containment is not suitable for medium-level waste because it does not provide the necessary shielding or isolation from the environment. Thus, the focus on long-term management and shielding is necessary to ensure safety and compliance with regulatory requirements.