The IAEA Regulations for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Material (SSR-6 (Rev. 1), 2018 Edition) regulates radioactive material by package type, whose definitions are based on the activity on the contents, except for uranium hexafluoride (UF6) which contains substance specific requirements. This is a departure from the requirements of paras 110 and 507, which indicate that the radioactive properties of the material are covered by the IAEA Regulations, and the subsidiary hazard must be in compliance with the relevant transport regulations for those dangerous goods.
As a result, the corrosiveness and toxic properties of UF6 are being regulated more stringently by the IAEA than materials with similar properties covered by other regulations. For example, Anhydrous Hydrogen Fluoride (AHF), which has identical corrosive and toxic properties, is safely regulated and transported according to the requirements of the UN Model Regulations (Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods) and by the Modal Regulations This difference in regulatory requirements could be considered unwarranted, representing an undue burden on the nuclear industry.
This paper discusses the matter by comparing the requirements for packages containing UF6 and AHF, focussing on their chemical and toxic properties. The paper generates a provocative conclusion that there is a need to either harmonise the packaging requirements for UF6 with the UN Model Regulations or to discontinue the constant re-examination of conformity with the IAEA Regulations and not impose further requirements for UF6 packages.