Tritium Level Far Below Japan’s Operational Limit In 22nd Batch Of ALPS Treated Water, IAEA Confirms
By Ron Chen, Bureau Chief, Asia
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that the tritium concentration in the 22nd batch of Advanced Liquid Processing System (ALPS)-treated water, which Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) started releasing into the sea earlier from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (FDNPS), is far below Japan’s operational limit and consistent with international safety standards.
As part of its ongoing safety review, the IAEA independently tested samples from the latest batch before the release began. Analysis at the site showed that the tritium levels were far below Japan’s operational limit of 1,500 becquerels per litre and met international safety standards.
Japan has discharged approximately 163,800 cubic metres of ALPS-treated water in batches since the start of discharges in August 2023. The IAEA has confirmed that the tritium levels in the first 21 batches were also far below the operational limits set by Japan.
Background
In its comprehensive report issued in July 2023, the IAEA concluded that Japan’s approach to the discharge of ALPS-treated water is consistent with relevant international safety standards and that the release, as planned and assessed, would have a negligible radiological impact on people and the environment.
The IAEA continues to maintain a presence at the site and to carry out ongoing monitoring and verification activities throughout the discharge process.
