Proposed modifications to the operation of the Blind River Refinery incinerator

Start date: November 26, 2004
Type: Screening
CEAR reference number: 04-01-8407
Proponent: Cameco Corporation
Location: Blind River, Ontario

Latest Update

• March 14, 2007 - CNSC Announces Decision on Screening Environmental Assessment for the Proposed Modification to the Operation of Cameco's Blind River Refinery in Blind River, Ontario
• July 14, 2006 - Request for Public Comment - Draft Screening Report

Project Description

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has received notice from Cameco Corporation (Cameco), seeking an amendment to an existing licence to upgrade the incinerator at the Blind River Refinery. The proposed upgrades would increase the capacity of the incinerator to handle contaminated combustible by-product from Cameco's Blind River and Port Hope operations. The proposed works would also include the installation of an oil injection system to allow for the incineration of contaminated waste oil, containing small amounts of uranium that is currently stored in drums at both the Port Hope and Blind River operations. It is anticipated that the upgrades will also include pollution control equipment, on-line monitoring equipment and ash processing equipment to enable the Blind River incinerator to handle the increased loading of material.

Before the Commission makes its decision on Cameco's proposal to upgrade the incinerator, an environmental assessment must be completed in compliance with the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. The purpose of an environmental assessment is to identify the possible environmental effects of a proposed project, and to determine whether these effects can be mitigated before the project is allowed to proceed.

Further Information

CNSC maintains a public registry of documents related to its environmental assessments. Lists and copies of documents may be obtained upon request. For questions or information directly related to this environmental assessment, contact the CNSC.

CNSC regulates the use of nuclear energy and materials to protect health, safety, security and the environment and to respect Canada's international commitments on the peaceful use of nuclear energy.