Guidance on Cost Estimate of Available NORM Waste Disposal Options

Focusing on small to medium volumes of NORM waste, the TECDOC lays out a lifecycle-based cost estimation model for effective disposal facility planning. It defines waste, reviews typical sources and hazards, and highlights key cost variables to guide tailored data collection and strategy development. With a focus on facilities designed to handle small and medium volumes of NORM waste, this TECDOC provides guidance on cost estimation for its disposal. It establishes a clear definition of NORM waste, explores the typical sources of small to medium quantities and outlines the range of disposal options according to the associated waste hazards. The report introduces a lifecycle-based cost estimation model, which serves as a foundational framework for developing cost estimates. It also identifies key components and variables within disposal plans that may influence cost variability. In addition, this publication presents high-level insights into various cost-estimation methodologies. Rather than offering a catalogue of specific costs, this TECDOC aims to equip Member States with a structured approach for collecting and applying their own cost data in the planning and development of NORM waste disposal facilities, acknowledging that cost elements are highly context-dependent and may vary across Member States.