A regulatory perspective on the radiological impact of NORM industries: the case of the Spanish phosphate industry

Radioactive and chemical risks coexist in NORM industries although they are usually addressed separately by regulations. The European Union (EU) has developed extensive legislation concerning both matters, which has been diversely reflected in national policies. We consider the case of the Spanish phosphate industry and analyse to which extent regulatory mandates have reduced the historical and ongoing radiological impact on the environment of phosphate facilities. Although no specific radiological constraints on effluent monitoring and release or on waste disposal have yet been imposed on NORM industries in Spain, other environmental regulations have achieved a substantial reduction on the phosphate industry impact. Nevertheless, a more efficient control could be established by eliminating the current conceptual and practical separation of chemical and radioactive risks in NORM industries. We highlight research needs to accomplish so and propose shorter-term measures that require active cooperation among the regulatory bodies involved.

Research highlights► The radiological impact of the Spanish phosphate industry has substantially decreased as a side result of environmental regulations on chemical pollution.► A more efficient control of NORM industries could be established by eliminating the current conceptual and practical separation of chemical and radioactive risks.► Further research is needed on how interactions between radiation and chemicals might affect regulatory limits and on a systematic way to input stakeholder preferences in MCDA.► On shorter-term, administrative measures that require active cooperation among the regulatory bodies involved can be taken.