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The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is in the process of rescinding or revising guidance and policies posted on this webpage in accordance with Executive Order 14151 Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing, and Executive Order 14168 Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government. In the interim, any previously issued diversity, equity, inclusion, or gender-related guidance on this webpage should be considered rescinded that is inconsistent with these Executive Orders.

Home About NRC Radiation Protection How the NRC Protects You Health Physics Positions Based on 10 CFR Part 20

Health Physics Questions and Answers - Question 5

Question 5: Who is responsible for regulating radium - the State or NRC?

Answer: The NRC regulates radium when it is in NRC-licensed uranium or thorium ores (source material, as defined in Part 20) or in tailings or wastes from processing these ores (byproduct material, as defined in Part 20). The control of radium that may be incidental to NRC-licensed operations is evaluated by NRC as required by NEPA. Releases of radium from a site, other than from NRC-licensed material (ores or tailings), may be required to meet State release limits. Also, an NRC licensee may be required to get a State license for the radium in naturally-occurring radioactive material (NORM) if the State requires a license for the use and possession of this material.

(References: 10 CFR 20.1001, 10 CFR 20.1002, 10 CFR 20.1003)

Page Last Reviewed/Updated Tuesday, December 12, 2017