Disposal of radioactive waste
The handling of radioactive materials is subject to a licensing requirement above certain thresholds (Radiation Protection Ordinance, Sections 7 and 8). This licence specifies the nuclides and activity levels that the licence holder is permitted to handle. The radioactive residues naturally generated during such handling must be disposed of in an orderly manner.
The Regulations on the Prevention and Disposal of Radioactive Waste (03/2026) summarise the rules applicable to the central disposal system of the University and the University Hospital of Ulm. These regulations apply uniformly to all departments of the University and the University Hospital of Ulm that have been granted a licence to work with radioactive substances. It also applies to areas where work is carried out with radioactive substances below the clearance limit.
The disposal of radioactive substances is organised and managed centrally by Department V-5 Occupational Health and Safety. The handover of waste takes place following registration at the workplace. Before transport to the storage facility, an appointment must be arranged in good time with the relevant member of staff in Department V-5. The waste is usually collected on the same day. Upon receipt of the waste, the correct sorting and packaging are checked and the accuracy of the information is confirmed by the signature of the relevant radiation protection officer from the department. The radiation protection officer must be present at the time of handover.