What should a facility do with radioactive waste that is no longer needed?

The disposal of radioactive waste is a critical aspect of radiation safety and environmental protection. Following protocols for safe disposal according to regulatory guidelines ensures that radioactive waste is managed in a manner that minimizes risk to human health and the environment. Regulatory guidelines are established based on scientific research and best practices, considering factors such as the type and level of radioactivity, potential exposure pathways, and long-term safety.

By adhering to these guidelines, facilities ensure that radioactive waste is treated properly—whether it's through secure storage, transportation to designated disposal sites, or decontamination processes. This approach helps prevent contamination of the environment and reduces the risk of exposure to workers and the community, which is a fundamental principle in radiation safety practices.

Other options do not align with these best practices. Storing waste indefinitely fails to address the need for eventual disposal, mixing it with regular waste can lead to unintentional contamination and safety hazards, and leaving it in place disregards the necessary protocols for managing hazardous materials. Thus, following established regulatory disposal procedures is the appropriate and responsible action.