HIFAR safety analysis: frequency and offsite consequences of fault sequences initiated by within-plant failures

Abstract

HIFAR fault sequences, initiated by failures of within-plant equipment and operational procedures, are analysed using probabilistic methods, and their frequencies estimated. Sequence consequences are estimated in terms of potential radiation doses to an individual at 1.6 km radius from the reactor, expressed in terms of emergency reference levels recommended by the National Health and Medical Research Council for consideration of limited evacuation. The results show that the public risk from all such sequences is extremely low.