When is decay in storage allowed for radioactive materials?

Decay in storage for radioactive materials is allowed under specific regulations to ensure safety in handling and disposal. The choice that states authorization from the Radiation Inspection Committee (RIC) is required for materials with a half-life exceeding 10 half-lives accurately reflects this requirement. This is because, after 10 half-lives, a significant reduction in radioactivity occurs, making the material significantly safer to handle and store. However, regulatory oversight is still necessary for such long-term decay management to ensure compliance with safety standards.

The rules surrounding decay in storage are designed to ensure that radioactive materials do not pose a risk to individuals or the environment during their decay period. Therefore, proper authorization from an oversight body like the RIC is crucial for any materials that may remain radioactive for an extended period. This helps maintain rigorous safety protocols aligned with best practices in radiation safety.