Uranium Enrichment and Fuel Fabrication - Current Issues (Canada) 
(last updated 1 May 2024)
Contents:
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> See also directory of World Nuclear Fuel Facilities
First batch of uranium mined in Ukraine sent to Canada for conversion at Cameco's facilities
> View here
Aerial View: Google Maps 
> View Blind River Environmental Incidents (Cameco)
Truck carrying uranium ore concentrate to Cameco's Blind River Refinery collides with moose
On July 21 a tractor and trailer carrying two sea containers of uranium ore concentrate drums collided with a moose on highway 17 near English River, ON. The shipment originated from Cameco's Key Lake operation and is destined for France.
There was no damage to the trailer, sea containers or drums.
(Cameco July 24, 2023)
Truck carrying uranium ore concentrate to Cameco's Blind River Refinery collides with moose
At approximately 1:00 a.m. [on June 1, 2023], a tractor and trailer carrying drums of uranium ore concentrate destined for the Blind River Refinery hit a moose near Upsala, Ontario. There were no injuries and no damage to the trailer or drums.
(Cameco June 2, 2023)
Truck carrying uranium ore concentrate to Cameco's Blind River Refinery involved in minor accident
On January 20, 2023, a transport carrying uranium ore concentrate to the Blind River Refinery was involved in a minor traffic accident on the Trans-Canada Highway 1, west of Warren Ontario. A snowplow with a 3-wing plow system attached was travelling in the opposite direction and crossed the centre line and clipped the transport truck's side mirror.
There was no other damage to the transport truck or sea containers.
(Cameco Jan. 24, 2023)
Truck carrying uranium ore concentrate to Cameco's Blind River Refinery involved in accident
At approximately 5:15 p.m. [on Oct. 11, 2022], a truck and trailer carrying uranium ore concentrate destined for the Blind River Refinery was involved in a traffic accident on Highway 17 near Calvin, Ontario. A vehicle in the eastbound lane crossed the centre line, made contact with the side of the truck, and then with the front trailer. There was no damage to the sea container, and it remained secured on the trailer.
(Cameco Oct. 10, 2022 ?!)
Truck carrying empty uranium trioxide containers from Port Hope conversion plant back to Blind River Refinery involved in collision
> View here
Truck carrying uranium ore concentrate to Cameco's Blind River Refinery rolls into ditch
On Nov. 1, 2021, at approximately 5:40 a.m., after being parked overnight, a transport truck carrying uranium ore concentrate rolled backwards into a ditch at the edge of the parking lot when attempting to leave the Broken Canoe Trading Post in Mississiauga First Nation near Blind River. The truck had not been fully engaged into gear before the driver released the brake allowing the second (and last) trailer to roll backwards very slowly. There was no damage to the trailer, or the drums and there was no release of material.
(Cameco Nov. 1, 2021)
Truck carrying empty uranium trioxide containers back to Cameco's Blind River Refinery damaged in collision with moose
On Nov. 3, 2020, at approximately 7:00 p.m., a transport truck carrying empty tote bins to the Blind River Refinery struck a bull moose on Highway 69 between Noble and Pointe-au-Baril, Ontario. The tote bins, which were empty at the time of the incident, are used in the shipping of uranium trioxide [UO3]. There were no injuries and no damage to the trailer or the empty tote bins. The truck suffered damage and was towed from the scene. A spare truck was dispatched to retrieve the trailer to complete the delivery to the Refinery.
No one was injured and there was no impact on the health or safety of the public or the environment.
(Cameco Nov. 4, 2020)
CNSC approves 10-year license renewal for Cameco's Blind River Refinery:
On Feb. 17, 2022, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced its decision to renew the Class IB nuclear fuel facility licence held by Cameco Corporation for its Blind River Refinery. The renewed licence is valid until February 28, 2032.
> Download: Record of Decision, Feb. 16, 2022 (PDF)
CNSC announces hearing on 10-year license renewal for Cameco's Blind River Refinery:
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) will hold a one-part public hearing on November 24-25, 2021, to consider an application to renew the Class IB operating licence for the Cameco Corporation Blind River Refinery.
> View: CNSC release Mar. 8, 2021
> Download: Public Hearing Agenda Nov. 24, 2021 , CNSC, Oct. 22, 2021 (PDF)
> Download: Revised Public Hearing Agenda Nov. 24, 2021 , CNSC, Nov. 15, 2021 (PDF)
> Download: Hearing Transcript Nov. 24, 2021 , CNSC, Dec. 2, 2021 (PDF)
Cameco requests license renewal for Blind River Refinery:
On September 30, 2020, Cameco applied to the CNSC to renew the licence for the Blind River Refinery for a period of 10 years.
> View: related documents (Cameco)
Blind River uranium refinery to be placed in temporary shutdown due to COVID-19 pandemic
The UF6 plant at the Port Hope Conversion Facility will be placed in a temporary safe shutdown state for approximately four weeks [...].
Since the majority of the UO3 produced at the Blind River Refinery is used to produce UF6 at the conversion facility, the refinery's production will also be temporarily suspended and, where possible, summer maintenance work brought forward. The refinery will operate for about a week to produce sufficient UO3 for ongoing UO2 production at the conversion facility. Then, the refinery will be placed in a safe state of care and maintenance for approximately four weeks.
(Cameco Apr. 8, 2020)
On May 11, 2020, Cameco announced that the plant is to restart the week of May 18, 2020 and achieve regular production levels the week of May 25, 2020.
Uranium ore concentrate transport to Blind River involved in minor traffic accident (Ontario)
On January 7, 2018 at approximately 10:00 am EST, a semi trailer carrying uranium concentrate to Cameco's Blind River Refinery was involved in a minor accident on Highway 17 about 110 kilometres north of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. There were no injuries. The exterior of the trailer was damaged but the load was not affected.
(Cameco Jan. 7, 2018)
CNSC to hold un-hearing on revised financial guarantee for future decommissioning of Cameco Blind River uranium refinery
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission will hold a hearing in writing based solely on written submissions (written interventions permitted) in October 2017 to consider a request from Cameco Corporation for the Commission's acceptance of the revised financial guarantee for the future decommissioning of the Blind River Refinery, located in Blind River, Ontario.
Requests to intervene must be filed by October 26, 2017.
> Download Notice of Hearing, Sep. 25, 2017 (PDF)
> Download Record of Decision , Nov. 16, 2017 (PDF)
Uranium ore concentrate transport from Montreal to Blind River involved in minor traffic accident (Ontario)
On Dec. 2, 2016, a transport truck carrying uranium concentrate from Montreal to Cameco's Blind River refinery was involved in a minor accident on the Trans-Canada Highway near West Nipissing, Ontario. There were no injuries and no damage to the truck or its load.
(Cameco Jan. 13, 2017)
Uranium trioxide transport from Blind River to Port Hope involved in traffic accident (Ontario)
On April 17, 2016, at approximately 8:30 a.m., a tractor trailer transporting three tote bins of uranium trioxide (UO3) from the Blind River refinery to the Port Hope conversion facility was involved in a two-vehicle traffic accident on the TransCanada Highway (Highway 17) near Massey, Ontario. From initial reports, there appear to be no serious injuries to anyone involved in the accident. The robust tote bins performed as designed and the accident did not result in any release of uranium to the environment.
(Cameco Apr. 17, 2016)
Tractor-trailer carrying Australian yellowcake to Blind River (Ontario) refinery rolls over on Saskatchewan highway, spilling part of its load
A stretch of highway in southwest Saskatchewan has been cordoned off until morning after a tractor-trailer carrying 63 drums of uranium concentrate bound for a refinery rolled, spilling a small part of its load.
The rollover happened around noon on Monday (Jan. 11) on Highway 4, about 10 kilometres north of Swift Current, Sask.
Capt. Greg Campbell of the Swift Current fire department says there was a minor crack in the container carrying the yellowcake, which has a low level of radioactivity, but the spill is mostly contained.
The uranium was produced by a company in Australia and was being shipped through the United States en route to Cameco's refinery in Blind River, Sask. [?!]
(The Canadian Press, Jan. 11, 2016)
Goldman Sachs stored uranium ore concentrate at Cameco's Blind River Refinery
> View Goldman Sachs to wind down uranium trading business - after U.S. Senate report sheds some light on it, raising a number of issues
Contamination incident at Cameco's Blind River Refinery
On June 25, 2012, CNSC staff received a written notification from Cameco about an incident of an indoor spill of uranium concentrate powder which resulted in a worker being exposed to uranium dust at their Blind River Refinery on June 23, 2012.
There were no release of uranium outside the facility or any exposure to the public.
(CNSC June 29, 2012)
The incident occurred on June 23. When a worker loosened a ring clamp on a 55-gallon drum containing uranium oxide yellowcake the lid blew off, ejecting about 26 kilograms of the material into the air. The worker closest to the drum and two others in the area, who were not wearing respirators, were exposed to airborne uranium.
The barrel had been shipped from Uranium One's Willow Creek Facility in Wyoming on May 29. Following this incident several other drums shipped to the Canadian facility containing yellowcake were found to be bulging from internal pressure.
On July 6, 2012, the CNSC announced that a request for information had been issued, under subsection 12(2) of the General Nuclear Safety and Control Regulations, to Cameco regarding a uranium contamination event.
Recognizing the health and safety significance of this contamination event to workers at the Blind River Refinery, CNSC staff request Cameco to submit the following information:
- Cameco's analysis of the adequacy of its current practices of workers' protection from exposures to airborne uranium at the Feed Sampling and Preparation circuit at the Blind River Refinery;
- Cameco's analysis of the lessons learned from the medical aid and emergency response procedures followed for this incident;
- Cameco's confirmation that appropriate interim corrective measures for workers' protection are now in place and will remain in place until permanent measures are implemented to prevent recurrence of this event; and
- In consulting with the Uranium One's Willow Creek facility, the root cause(s) found for the unexpected pressure generated inside the yellowcake drums, along with any corrections action(s) taken to prevent recurrence of this event.
On Sep. 13, 2012, CNSC ordered Cameco to not open any uranium concentrate drums received from Uranium One Inc. (Willow Creek Facility) with actual or suspected unsafe condition of being pressurized, until a safe work plan to depressurize them has been developed and accepted.
On Oct. 29, 2012, CNSC announced that the order has now been closed, since the work plan submitted by Cameco has been deemed acceptable.
> See also current issues Willow Creek (Wyoming)
CNSC issues license renewal and production increase for Blind River uranium refinery
Following a two-day public hearing (November 3, 2011, and January 18 and 19, 2012), the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced on Feb. 29, 2012, its decision to renew for a period of ten years the Nuclear Fuel Facility Operating Licence for Cameco Corporation's facility located in Blind River, Ontario. The licence will be valid from March 1, 2012 to February 28, 2022.
> Download Notice of Public Hearing Aug. 24, 2011 (PDF)
> Download Relicensing Documents (Cameco)
> Download Public Hearing Transcript - Blind River Refinery: Nov. 3, 2011 · Jan. 19, 2012 (PDF)
> View CNSC release Feb. 29, 2012
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision (PDF)
CNSC to hold Un-Hearing on license amendment for incinerator at Cameco Blind River uranium refinery
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) will hold a hearing in June to consider
Cameco Corporation's (Cameco) application to amend the Blind River Refinery Nuclear Fuel Facility Operating Licence. The fuel facility is located in Blind River, Ontario.
Cameco is seeking acceptance from the Commission to increase the operational time of the incinerator from 12 to 24 hours per day for operational flexibility of the Blind River Fuel Facility.
The Commission has determined that a public hearing is not necessary to consider Cameco's request in this case. The hearing will be conducted by way of written submissions from CNSC staff and Cameco.
> Download Notice of Hearing June 7, 2011 (PDF)
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision, June 9, 2011 (PDF)
CNSC holds hearing on amendmend to financial guarantee for Cameco Blind River uranium refinery
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) held a one-day public hearing (September 13, 2007) on the application by Cameco Corporation (Cameco) for acceptance of the proposed amendment to the value of its existing financial guarantee for its nuclear fuel facility located in Blind River, Ontario.
> Download Notice of Public Hearing, July 13, 2007 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript Sep. 13, 2007 (PDF)
> View CNSC release Oct. 25, 2007
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision (PDF)
Upgrade of incinerator at Cameco Blind River uranium refinery
Following a hearing held on December 7, 2006, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) approved the results of an Environmental Assessment Screening (EA Screening) of Cameco Corporation's (Cameco) proposed project to modify the operation of the Blind River Refinery Incinerator located in Blind River, Ontario.
Cameco has notified the CNSC of its intention to request authorization to upgrade its Blind River Refinery Incinerator. The proposed upgrades would increase the capacity of the incinerator to handle contaminated combustible by-products from Cameco's operations in both Port Hope and Blind River. The proposed upgrades would also include the installation of pollution control equipment and on-line monitoring equipment as well as an oil injection system to allow for the incineration of contaminated uranium-bearing waste oil.
The Commission has determined that a public hearing in this case is not necessary to consider the results of the EA Screening. The hearing will be conducted by way of written submissions.
> Download Notice of Hearing, Nov. 27, 2006 (PDF)
> View CNSC release March 14, 2007
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision March 7, 2007 (PDF)
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), after holding a one-day hearing (April 12, 2007), approved the application by Cameco Corporation's (Cameco) Blind River Refinery for an amendment to its Class IB Nuclear Fuel Facility Operating Licence for its facility located in Blind River, Ontario.
Cameco has applied to amend its operating licence to include provisions for the incinerator's upgraded operation. The upgrades will increase the capacity of the incinerator to handle contaminated combustible by-products from Cameco's operations in both Port Hope and Blind River. The upgrades also include pollution control equipment and on-line monitoring equipment to enable the incinerator to handle the increased loading of material and meet future emission limits.
> Download Notice of Hearing, March 27, 2007 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript Apr. 12, 2007 (PDF)
> View CNSC release April 13, 2007
> Download Summary Record of Proceedings and Decision, April 12, 2007 (PDF)
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision, April 12, 2007 (PDF) · Errata (PDF)
"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. [...]"
A related environmental assessment was started on November 26, 2004.
> View CNSC release Dec. 21, 2004
CNSC issues license renewal for Cameco Blind River uranium refinery
On Feb. 26, 2007, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), after holding a two-day public hearing (October 5, 2006, and December 13, 2006) on the application by Cameco Corporation, issued the renewal of the operating licence for the Blind River Uranium Refining Facility, located in Blind River, Ontario.
> Download Hearing Notice July 31, 2006 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript, Oct. 5, 2006 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript, Dec. 13, 2006 (PDF)
> View CNSC release Feb. 26, 2007
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including
Reasons for Decision, Feb. 26, 2007 (PDF)
CNSC announces un-hearing on EA Screening for proposed production increase at Blind River Refinery
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) will hold a "hearing" on September 22, 2008 to consider the results of an Environmental Assessment Screening (EA Screening) regarding Cameco Corporation's (Cameco) proposal to increase the annual licensed production capacity of the Blind River Refinery (the Refinery), located near Blind River, Ontario.
The Refinery processes natural uranium concentrates into natural uranium trioxide (UO3), and is currently licensed to operate for a maximum production of 18,000 tonnes of uranium as UO3 annually. Cameco has proposed to increase the Refinery's annual production capacity to 24,000 tonnes uranium as UO3. Cameco's proposal includes construction activities to modify the Refinery to achieve the increased production rate and the operation of the Refinery under the proposed production rate.
The Commission has determined that a public hearing is not necessary to consider Cameco's proposed project. The "hearing" will be conducted by way of written submissions from Cameco and CNSC staff.
> Download Notice of Hearing Sep. 8, 2008 (PDF)
CNSC invites public comment on the Draft Screening Report concerning the Environmental Assessment of Cameco's proposed production increase at the Blind River Refinery, Ontario
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) invites public comment on the Draft Screening Report concerning the Environmental Assessment of Cameco Corporation's (Cameco) proposed production increase at the Blind River Refinery, near Blind River, Ontario.
Written comments on the Draft Screening Report document should be submitted by May 16, 2008.
> View CNSC Request for Public Comment, April 21, 2008
> View CNSC Project Description
CNSC approves EA guidelines for production increase at Cameco's Blind River Refinery
After holding a hearing on Jan. 12, 2006, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) approved the draft environmental assessment guidelines for the proposed production increase at the Cameco Corporation Blind River Refinery in Blind River, Ontario.
> View CNSC Request for Public Comment, Aug. 25, 2005
> View CNSC Project Description
> View CNSC release Feb. 13, 2006
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision, Feb. 13, 2006 (PDF)
Cameco to increase capacity of Blind River uranium refinery
Cameco is going to invest CDN$ 6 million to increase the production capacity of its Blind River uranium refinery. The refined UO3 will be sent to the BNFL Springfields plant in the United Kingdom for conversion to uranium hexafluoride. (Cameco Mar. 16, 2005)
On July 4, 2005, CNSC started the related environmental assessment.
This project involves a proposed increase to the annual licensed production capacity of the Blind River Refinery from 18,000 tonnes uranium as uranium trioxide (UO3) to 24,000 tonnes uranium as UO3. The proposed increase in annual production would be achieved by making minor process modifications to the current circuits.
> View CNSC release July 11, 2005
> Download Blind River Refinery - Project Description to Support an Environmental Assessment for a Production Increase from
18,000 to 24,000 tonnes U per Year, Cameco, May 2005 (3.2M PDF)
CNSC holds hearing on mid-term performance of Cameco Blind River uranium refinery
The hearing was held on Feb. 24, 2005 (date revised).
> Download Hearing Notice, Dec. 3, 2004 (PDF)
> Download Revised Hearing Notice, Jan. 28, 2005 (PDF)
> Download Feb. 24, 2005 Hearing Transcript (PDF)
> Download Record of Proceedings, May 18, 2005 (PDF)
Cameco seeking approval for recycling of wastes from Blind River and Port Hope nuclear fuel facilities at Key Lake mill
> View details
License Renewal for Blind River fuel facility
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), after holding a two-day public hearing, issued a 5-year license renewal to Cameco Corporation of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan to operate its uranium processing facility in Blind River, Ontario.
> Download CNSC Announcement (Sep. 6, 2001) (PDF)
> Download Transcript of November 15, 2001, hearing (PDF)
> Download Transcript of January 17, 2002, hearing (PDF)
> View CNSC Release Feb. 18, 2002
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision, Feb. 18, 2002 (PDF)
On December 16, 1999, the Atomic Energy Control Board (AECB) approved the license renewal for the Cameco Corporation uranium refinery in Blind River, Ontario.
> View AECB News Release of Dec. 17, 1999
> see extra page
(formerly GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Canada Inc.)
CNSC holds hearing in writing on revised financial guarantee for BWXT NEC's Toronto and Peterborough nuclear fuel facilities
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) will conduct a hearing based on written submissions in January 2024. The hearing is to consider a request from BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada Inc. (BWXT NEC) for the acceptance of the revised financial guarantees for its facilities in Toronto and Peterborough, Ontario.
Requests to intervene must be filed with the Commission Registry by February 5, 2024 (comment period extended).
> Download: Notice of Hearing in Writing , December 8, 2023 (PDF - CNSC)
> Download: Revised Notice of Hearing in Writing , Jan. 3, 2024 (PDF - CNSC)
> Download: Record of Decision , Apr. 8, 2024 (PDF - CNSC)
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) will hold a public hearing on March 2 and 3, 2020 to consider an application from BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada Inc. (BWXT) to renew its Class IB fuel facility operating licence for a period of 10 years. BWXT operates two separate facilities, located in Toronto and Peterborough, Ontario, under a single licence.
The facility in Toronto produces uranium-dioxide fuel pellets.
Requests to intervene must be filed by January 27, 2020 (Deadline extended).
> Download: Notice of Public Hearing and Participant Funding , June 3, 2019 (PDF)
> Download: Revised Notice of Public Hearing , Sep. 5, 2019 (PDF)
> Download: Revised Notice of Public Hearing , Oct. 28, 2019 (PDF)
> Download: Revised Notice of Public Hearing , Dec. 20, 2019 (PDF)
> Download: Revised Notice of Public Hearing , Feb. 10, 2020 (PDF)
> Download: Hearing Agenda March 2-6, 2020 (PDF)
> Download: Revised Hearing Agenda March 2-6, 2020 (PDF)
> Download: license renewal documents (BWXT)
> Download: Hearing Transcript March 2nd, 2020 (PDF)
> Download: Hearing Transcript March 3rd, 2020 (PDF)
On Dec. 21, 2020, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced its decision to renew the nuclear fuel facility licence held by BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada Inc. (BWXT) in Toronto and Peterborough. By way of a majority decision, the Commission also decided to authorize the commercial production of fuel pellets at BWXT's Peterborough facility, with one member dissenting on this issue. BWXT will be allowed to produce fuel pellets at only one of its facilities at any time.
The Commission is renewing BWXT's licence as two separate licences, one for each facility in Toronto and Peterborough.
> View: CNSC release , Dec. 21, 2020
> Download: Record of Decision , Dec. 18, 2020 (PDF)
The Federal Court has dismissed an application for judicial review of the Commission's decision to renew the BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada Inc.'s operating licence for its facilities in Toronto and Peterborough.
The Court concluded that the Commission's decision was lawful and reasonable. Citizens Against Radioactive Neighbourhoods (C.A.R.N.) sought to have the licence renewal set aside.
> View: Federal Court Decision, June 9, 2022
CNSC releases Independent Environmental Monitoring Program (IEMP) results for BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada (BWXT) Toronto nuclear fuel facility
"The IEMP results from both 2014 and 2016 indicate that the public and the environment around the BWXT site are safe and that there are no health impacts."
> View CNSC release Jan. 27, 2017
Proposed license transfer for Toronto and Peterborough nuclear fuel facilities from GE-Hitachi to BWXT
CNSC approves license transfer for Toronto and Peterborough nuclear fuel facilities from GE-Hitachi to BWXT:
> Download: Record of Decision , Dec. 9, 2016 (PDF)
CNSC to hold un-hearing on proposed license transfer for Toronto and Peterborough nuclear fuel facilities from GE-Hitachi to BWXT:
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) will hold a hearing in December 2016 to consider an application from GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Canada Inc. (GEH-C) to transfer its Fuel Facility Operating Licence to BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada Inc. The Commission will also consider the proposed new financial guarantee from GEH-C and its request to change the description of its Peterborough facility.
The current licence authorizes GEH-C to operate two fuel facilities: one in Toronto, ON and the other in Peterborough, ON. The Toronto facility manufactures uranium dioxide fuel pellets for use in fuel bundles. The facility in Peterborough manufactures fuel bundles for use at the Pickering and Darlington Nuclear Generating Stations. The Peterborough site also operates a fuel services business involved in the manufacture and maintenance of nuclear power plant equipment.
The Commission has determined that a hearing without interventions is appropriate to consider this application. The requested changes are administrative in nature and do not raise matters related to the protection of health, safety, security or the environment. The Commission will consider written submissions from GEH-C and CNSC staff. [emphasis added]
> Download: CNSC Notice of Hearing , Dec. 8, 2016 (PDF)
No health risks associated with uranium in soil at GE-Hitachi Toronto nuclear fuel facility, CNSC report
On Oct. 24, 2013, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) released its soil sampling results which concludes that there are no health risks associated with uranium in soil as a result of the operations of the GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy Canada Inc.'s Toronto facility.
The GEH-C facility has been producing uranium dioxide (UO2) pellets for use in nuclear power plants since 1955.
> Download Uranium Levels in Soil Samples Around GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Inc. Toronto Facility , Oct. 2013 (2.4MB PDF)
Ontario Environment ministry finds 'no evidence' of soil contamination near GE-Hitachi Toronto nuclear fuel facility
The province has found "no evidence" of soil contamination near the GE-Hitachi uranium processing plant on Lansdowne Ave., says a report based on tests conducted in the face of public pressure this June.
The study turned up no traces of uranium "above typical background levels" that exist naturally in Ontario soil.
"Based on this, we've concluded that there would be no risk to the community," said Barbara Lachapelle of the Toronto Public Health Environmental Response Team, who reviewed the results.
Released Friday (Oct. 11), the report outlines the Ontario Environment Ministry's analysis of 176 dirt samples from 24 sites around the facility. It was prepared at the behest of Toronto's chief medical officer of health, Dr. David McKeown, as anti-nuclear activists and residents of the area near Lansdowne Ave. and Dupont St. raised concerns about the facility's location.
The province's sample results, which showed uranium levels no higher than 1.83 parts per million (ppm), were all lower than the 1.9 to 2.1 ppm Lachapelle said you would typically find in soil anywhere in Ontario.
"Those are the concentrations that we're being exposed to just from natural uranium in the environment," she said. "Those are the levels that, anywhere we would go, we would encounter. We don't see disease patterns resulting from that."
The Canada-wide threshold that triggers concern for health officials - which Lachapelle called "conservative" - is 23 ppm, or 23 millionths of a gram of uranium.
(Toronto Star Oct. 11, 2013)
> Download: Technical Memorandum, Soil Survey in the Vicinity of GE-Hitachi, Toronto, Ontario, 2013 , Ontario Ministry of the Environment (829k PDF)
Independent soil testing to be performed at GE-Hitachi Toronto nuclear fuel facility
The provincial environment ministry says it will test soil samples around the GE Hitachi uranium processing plant in Toronto's west end, bowing to months of public pressure.
The city's public health department has reviewed air and soil tests from the GE Hitachi plant for at least six years and has never found a problem.
But the company takes its own samples and sends them to a lab for analysis. Residents around the Lansdowne factory want the ministry to verify those test results.
Barbara Lachapelle, a Toronto environmental health officer who has reviewed the GE Hitachi data, says uranium levels are well below accepted standards.
Samples from the community in 2011 showed uranium at 2.3 to 2.5 parts per million, a level that can normally occur in soil throughout Ontario, says Lachapelle. The accepted standard in soil around a residence or in a park is 23 parts per million.
The highest levels, around 15 parts per million, were on GE Hitachi property, says Lachapelle, suggesting the uranium emitted by the plant’s stack during processing doesn't go very far.
(Torstar News Service June 2, 2013)
Protesters stop train over GE-Hitachi Toronto nuclear fuel plant
A group of anti-nuclear protesters affiliated with the Idle No More movement stopped a train in the Davenport area on Sunday (Feb. 3) after their demonstration against a nearby uranium facility migrated onto CP Rail tracks.
The GE-Hitachi plant on Lansdowne St. near Dupont St. caused an uproar in November when the surrounding community learned the facility in their midst had been processing uranium dioxide powder into pellets since 1965.
(Toronto Star Feb. 4, 2013)
Protesters call for closure of GE-Hitachi Toronto nuclear fuel plant
Following a march from the GE-Hitachi uranium plant at Lansdowne Avenue and Dupont Street, a capacity crowd of protesters filled the Davenport-Perth Neighbourhood Centre sanctuary.
Facilitated by the Ontario Clean Air Alliance's Angela Bischoff, the Nov. 15 meeting brought together a host of speakers.
Area politicians revealed they were shocked that a nuclear processing plant has been in their midsts for more than five decades.
"Like many of you in our community, I was really surprised, shocked. I didn't know GE was here," Davenport MP Andrew Cash admitted to the crowd of about 100.
(Bloor West Villager Nov. 16, 2012)
Following a two day public hearing, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced on Dec. 22, 2010, its decision to renew the Nuclear Fuel Facility Operating Licence for the GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy Canada Incorporated (GEH-C) facilities in Toronto and Peterborough for a period of 10 years. The Commission has decided to issue a single licence for both facilities.
The possession and processing of low enriched uranium, as approved in the January 2010 amendment to the Peterborough license, is not allowed under the renewed licence.
> Download Notice of Public Hearing July 7, 2010 (PDF)
> Download Revised Notice of Public Hearing July 26, 2010 (PDF)
> Download Revised Notice of Public Hearing Sep 16, 2010 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript Sep. 30, 2010 (PDF)
> Download Revised Notice of Public Hearing Oct. 12, 2010 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript Dec. 9, 2010 (PDF)
> View CNSC release Dec. 22, 2010
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision, Dec. 21, 2010 (PDF)
On June 28, 2007, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced its decision to issue to GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Canada Inc. (GE-Hitachi) a new Fuel Facility Operating Licence FFOL-3622.0/2010 for GE-Hitachi's facility located in Toronto, Ontario. The licence is valid from June 4, 2007 until December 31, 2010, unless suspended, amended, revoked or replaced. Concurrently, the Commission revoked Fuel Facility Operating Licence FFOL-3622.0/2010 for General Electric Canada Company Inc. (GE Canada)'s Toronto facility, pursuant to section 24 of the NSCA.
In its news release, CNSC says that the decision was taken "Following a public hearing held on May 16, 2007". However, in the Record of Decision, they concede that "... a standing panel on procedural matters determined that it was not necessary to hold a public hearing on the matter, and the hearing was conducted by a panel of one Commission member, based on written submissions."
> Download Notice of Public Hearing NEVER ISSUED
> Download Hearing Transcript May 16, 2007 (PDF) WITHHELD
> View CNSC release June 28, 2007
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision, May 16, 2007 (PDF)
On Dec. 30, 2005, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) after holding two public hearings (September 14, and December 1, 2005) approved applications by General Electric Canada, Toronto, Ontario for the renewal of the operating licences for two nuclear fuel fabrication facilities. The facilities are located in Toronto and Peterborough, Ontario.
> Download Notice of Public Hearing, June 10, 2005 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript Sep. 14, 2005 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript Dec. 1, 2005 (PDF)
> View CNSC release Dec. 30, 2005
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision, Dec. 30, 2005 (PDF)
(formerly GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Canada Inc.)
Aerial view: Google Maps 
CNSC to hold hearing in writing on revised financial guarantee for BWXT NEC's Toronto and Peterborough nuclear fuel facilities
> View here
"No risk" from beryllium and uranium concentrations in soil near BWXT's Peterborough nuclear fuel facility
"Based on the results of the sampling program there is no evidence that beryllium or uranium used at
the BWXT facility have had any impact on Peterborough soils. No risk has been identified to the soils
or to the public of Peterborough."
> Download: Annual 2021 Soil Siltation Sampling Program, BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada Inc. Peterborough Facility , Sep. 21, 2021 (7.7MB PDF)
CNSC to hold hearing on 10-year license renewal for BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada (BWXT) Peterborough nuclear fuel facility:
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) will hold a public hearing on
March 4, 5 and 6, 2020 to consider an application from BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada Inc.
(BWXT) to renew its Class IB fuel facility operating licence for a period of 10 years. BWXT
operates two separate facilities, located in Toronto and Peterborough, Ontario, under a single
licence.
The facility in Peterborough manufactures CANDU fuel bundles using the fuel pellets made at the Toronto facility. The Peterborough facility also operates a fuel services business involved with the manufacture and maintenance of equipment for use in nuclear power plants.
Requests to intervene must be filed by January 27, 2020 (Deadline extended).
> View details
In response to concerns raised at hearing, CNSC requests further analysis of beryllium concentrations in soil near BWXT's Peterborough nuclear fuel facility, before deciding on 10-year license renewal:
"[...] During the hearing, the Commission considered the information provided by BWXT, intervenors and CNSC staff about beryllium emissions from BWXT's Peterborough facility. Specifically, in respect of the results from the CNSC's Independent Environmental Monitoring Program - which showed increasing beryllium concentrations in soil at properties adjacent to the Peterborough facility - the Commission has decided that it needs additional information on this topic, including the risk and source of the beryllium, before rendering a decision on this matter.
On this basis, the Commission directs CNSC staff to carry out expedited soil resampling for beryllium of properties adjacent to BWXT's Peterborough facility, with a special focus on the property where the Prince of Wales Elementary School is located. The Commission also directs CNSC staff to carry out an analysis of the results with the aims of clarifying the risk that the increasing beryllium levels may present to the health and safety of the public and the environment, and potentially identifying the reasons for the increase and the source of the beryllium.
The Commission directs CNSC staff to submit the beryllium resampling results and analyses in a supplementary submission to the Commission no later than August 31, 2020. Once the Commission receives CNSC staff's submission, the Commission will deliberate on BWXT's licence renewal request. The resampling results and the supplementary submission will be publically available."
> Download: Notice of Continuation of Public Hearing , Apr. 6, 2020 (PDF)
Further analysis of beryllium concentrations in soil near BWXT's Peterborough nuclear fuel facility reveals "no risk":
On Nov. 2, 2020, CNSC released the results of the soil resampling carried out at the Prince of Wales Public School and other locations in Peterborough adjacent to the BWXT facility.
The soil samples were analyzed at the CNSC lab and results indicate there is no significant increasing trend of beryllium soil concentrations in Peterborough.
Results indicate there is no risk to the environmental and human health at the Prince of Wales Public School, since all concentrations of beryllium in soil are in the range of natural background in Ontario (up to 2.5 mg/kg).
(CNSC Nov. 2, 2020)
> Download: CNSC staff response to Commission's Notice of Continuation of public Hearing , Oct. 28, 2020 (1.4MB PDF)
CNSC issues 10-year license renewal and authorizes fuel pellet production at BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada (BWXT) Peterborough nuclear fuel facility:
On Dec. 21, 2020, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced its decision to renew the nuclear fuel facility licence held by BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada Inc. (BWXT) in Toronto and Peterborough. By way of a majority decision, the Commission also decided to authorize the commercial production of fuel pellets at BWXT's Peterborough facility, with one member dissenting on this issue. BWXT will be allowed to produce fuel pellets at only one of its facilities at any time.
The Commission is renewing BWXT's licence as two separate licences, one for each facility in Toronto and Peterborough.
> View: CNSC release , Dec. 21, 2020
> Download: Record of Decision , Dec. 18, 2020 (PDF)
Group launches legal challenge of licence for fuel pellet production at BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada (BWXT) Peterborough nuclear fuel facility:
Citizens Against Radioactive Neighbourhoods (CARN) , represented by the Canadian Environmental Law Association (CELA), has filed an application for a judicial review of the decision. Along with beryllium contamination, the group objects to the potential production of uranium dioxide pellets at BWXT's Peterborough plant.
According to CARN spokesperson Bill Templeton, at issue is the facility's manufacturing process being simply too close to Prince of Wales Public School on Mongahan Road at Sherbrooke Street, as well being adjacent to residential neighbourhoods both north and south of the site.
(kawarthaNOW Apr. 2, 2021)
Federal Court upholds licence renewal for BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada (BWXT) Peterborough nuclear fuel facility:
The Federal Court has dismissed an application for judicial review of the Commission's decision to renew the BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada Inc.'s operating licence for its facilities in Toronto and Peterborough.
The Court concluded that the Commission's decision was lawful and reasonable. Citizens Against Radioactive Neighbourhoods (C.A.R.N.) sought to have the licence renewal set aside.
> View: Federal Court Decision, June 9, 2022
Rally against proposed production of nuclear fuel pellets at BWXT Peterborough nuclear fuel facility:
A group of concerned citizens ignored Saturday's (Jan. 18) snow and winds to protest plans by the company BWXT Canada Ltd. to process uranium pellets at its Peterborough facility.
The group is aiming to raise local attention about the issue in advance of meetings March 5 and 6 at the Holiday Inn Waterfront.
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission has already approved BWXT's plans to start processing uranium dioxide pellets at the former GE site on Monaghan Road, but has agreed to hold the hearing to hear from the public.
(The Peterborough Examiner Jan. 18, 2020)
A group of local residents held another rally Saturday (Feb. 29) to protest the plan by BWXT Canada to being developing uranium pellets at its Peterborough facility, the former Canadian General Electric plant on Monaghan Road.
The group was joined by Alex Tyrrell, leader of the Green Party of Quebec.
Opponents of the plan question the health effect of the proposal, noting that the plant sits in the midst of an otherwise residential area and is across the street from an elementary school.
(The Peterborough Examiner Feb. 29, 2020)
Residential neighbours not convinced that proposed production of nuclear fuel pellets at BWXT Peterborough nuclear fuel facility is safe:
Emissions from BWXT's Toronto facility, which processes uranium pellets, sits at one per cent of the regulatory limits, says a company spokesperson.
That's the same process Peterborough residents are fighting against, as the company has applied for a licence to perform that process in Peterborough. The company says it currently has no plans to change its existing setup.
On Tuesday (Dec. 3) more than 200 people from the community gathered at a Citizens Against Radioactive Neighbourhoods (CARN) meeting, according to organizer Peter Harris.
The goal of the group is to advocate for more information and push back against a request BWXT has put in place to bring uranium pelleting to the Peterborough facility.
(MyKawartha.com Dec. 6, 2019)
Proposed production of nuclear fuel pellets at BWXT Peterborough nuclear fuel facility raises concern among residents
[Jane Scott, of Bolivar Street, is] concerned about an application from BWXT to start manufacturing uranium pellets in Peterborough (rather than assembling those manufactured in Toronto).
Pelleting is a dusty process, Scott writes, and she's worried dust will go up in smokestacks and get into sewers.
Breathing in any amount of uranium is very dangerous, Scott writes, and she's concerned erratic weather or accidents could cause widespread exposure.
But Natalie Cutler, a spokesperson for BWXT, wrote in an email to The Examiner on Friday (Apr. 26) that pelleting - which only takes place in Toronto, currently - doesn't increase the chance of harmful toxins in the air or sewers.
That's been determined by BWXT in Toronto, she wrote, and verified independently by the CNSC.
"Commencing these same pelleting operations in Peterborough will not create emissions to the air or water that are harmful to our employees, the public or the environment," Cutler wrote.
(The Peterborough Examiner Apr. 26, 2019)
BWXT seeks license amendment to produce nuclear fuel pellets at Peterborough nuclear fuel facility:
A nuclear energy firm based at the General Electric property on Monaghan Road has applied to produce fuel bundles for nuclear reactors at its Peterborough location, but did not speculate whether approval would mean more jobs.
BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada (BWXT NEC) submitted an application on Nov. 12 to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) to renew its Class 1B Nuclear Fuel Facility Operating Licence, which expires on Dec. 31, 2020, for a period of 10 years.
The current licence issued on Jan. 1, 2011 authorizes the company to produce and test fuel bundles using natural and depleted uranium dioxide pellets in Peterborough and produce the pellets - a process known as pelleting - at its west-end Toronto facility.
The local site is also allowed to receive, repair, modify and returns contaminated equipment from off-site nuclear facilities, BWXT NEC stated in its fall 2018 community newsletter.
The company produces uranium fuel bundles for use at Candu nuclear power generation plants.
It currently ships pellets from its Toronto facility at 1025 Lansdowne Ave. to Peterborough, where they are placed into bundles for the power stations.
While BWXT NEC seeks the licence change to allow pelleting in Peterborough, it does not have plans to change its current operations, manager of community relations and communications Sara Forsey stated via email.
(The Peterborough Examiner Jan. 10, 2019)
Workers exposed to beryllium at BWXT Peterborough nuclear fuel facility over 21 months period
"[...] BWXT discovered that the incorrect filters for Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR) were used for a time period from December 4, 2015 to August 22, 2017. BWXT indicated that based on available air sampling data for that time period, a total of 15 instances of exposure to airborne beryllium were likely to have occurred. BWXT also indicated that two workers were impacted over this time period."
> View: CNSC release Oct. 19, 2017
> Download: CNSC letter to BWXT, Oct. 4, 2017 (PDF)
GE Peterborough nuclear fuel facility workers exposed to thousands of toxic chemicals, union report
A new report shows that workers at the GE plant in Peterborough, Ontario were exposed to more than 3,000 toxic chemicals, including at least 40 known or suspected human carcinogens.
"These GE workers have suffered horrific and often terminal diseases at a disproportionate rate, yet approximately half of the compensation claims filed have been rejected, abandoned or withdrawn due to what was deemed to be insufficient proof." said Joel Carr, Unifor National Representative. "This report provides much needed evidence to allow the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board to reopen and support these claims."
(Unifor May 18, 2017)
> View Unifor release May 18, 2017
> Download Advisory Committee report
Proposed license transfer for Toronto and Peterborough nuclear fuel facilities from GE-Hitachi to BWXT
> see here
CNSC issues licence renewal for GE Hitachi Toronto and Peterborough nuclear fuel fabrication facilities
> View here
The possession and processing of low enriched uranium, as approved in the January 2010 license amendment, is not allowed under the renewed licence.
GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Canada Inc. request to include in its current operating licence the maintenance and repair activities it carries out as a Class lB licensee
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) will hold a hearing on August 29, 2008 to consider an application by GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Canada Inc.'s (GEH-C) to amend its operating licence for its Class 1B facility located in Peterborough, Ontario.
The Commission has determined that a public hearing is not necessary to consider GEH-C's application in this case. The hearing will be conducted by way of written submissions.
> Download Notice of Hearing Aug. 29, 2008 (PDF)
Following a one-day public hearing (January 13, 2010), the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced on Feb. 12, 2010, its decision to approve the Environmental Assessment Screening Report (EASR) for the GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Canada Inc.'s Low Enriched Uranium (enrichment less than 5% U-235 by weight) Fuel Bundle Production Project. During that same hearing, the Commission also amended GE-Hitachi's Nuclear Fuel Facility Operating Licence to authorize such a production at its Peterborough facility in Ontario. The amended licence remains valid until December 31, 2010.
> Download CNSC Notice of Public Hearing Oct. 28, 2009 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript Jan. 13, 2010 (PDF)
> View CNSC release Feb. 12, 2010
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision, Jan. 13, 2010 (PDF)
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) invites public comment on the Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) Screening Report for the proposed Low Enriched Uranium Fuel Bundle Production Project by the GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy Canada located in Peterborough, Ontario.
The public comment period ends on October 16, 2009.
> View CNSC Request for Public Comment, Sep. 14, 2009
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) will hold a one-day hearing to consider the Environmental Assessment (EA) Guidelines regarding GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Canada Inc.'s (GE-Hitachi) proposal to manufacture low enriched uranium (LEU) fuel bundles at its facility located in Peterborough, Ontario.
The Commission has decided that a public hearing is not necessary to consider the draft EA Guidelines.
> Download Notice of Hearing July 23, 2008 (PDF)
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has received notice of intent and a project description from GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Canada (GE-Hitachi) for a licence amendment to manufacture low enriched uranium (LEU) fuel bundles at its Peterborough facility. CNSC invites public comment on the Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) Guidelines for the proposal.
Written comments should be submitted by February 22, 2008.
> View Request for Public Comment - Draft Environmental Assessment Guidelines, Jan. 25, 2008 (CNSC)
The GE-Hitachi Peterborough facility is currently licensed to produce fuel bundles consisting of natural uranium. GE-Hitachi proposes to manufacture LEU fuel bundles of enrichment of less than 5% U-235 by weight, using uranium dioxide pellets manufactured in North Carolina. The project includes the addition of new equipment to support an LEU manufacturing line, including a LEU pellet receipt area, a LEU fuel bundle production area, and a LEU fuel bundle storage area.
An environmental assessment was started on June 6, 2007.
> View Project description (CNSC)
On June 28, 2007, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced its decision to issue to GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy Canada Inc. (GE-Hitachi) new Fuel Facility Operating Licences FFOL-3621.0/2010 for GE-Hitachi's facility located in Peterborough, Ontario. The licence is valid from June 4, 2007 until December 31, 2010, unless suspended, amended, revoked or replaced. Concurrently, the Commission revoked Fuel Facility Operating Licence FFOL-3621.0/2010 for General Electric Canada Company Inc. (GE Canada)'s Peterborough facility, pursuant to section 24 of the NSCA.
In its news release, CNSC says that the decision was taken "Following a public hearing held on May 16, 2007". However, in the Record of Decision, they concede that "... a standing panel on procedural matters determined that it was not necessary to hold a public hearing on the matter, and the hearing was conducted by a panel of one Commission member, based on written submissions."
> Download Notice of Public Hearing NEVER ISSUED
> Download Hearing Transcript May 16, 2007 (PDF) WITHHELD
> View CNSC release June 28, 2007
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision, May 16, 2007 (PDF)
On Dec. 30, 2005, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) after holding two public hearings (September 14, and December 1, 2005) approved applications by General Electric Canada, Toronto, Ontario for the renewal of the operating licences for two nuclear fuel fabrication facilities. The facilities are located in Toronto and Peterborough, Ontario.
> Download Notice of Public Hearing, June 10, 2005 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript Sep. 14, 2005 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript Dec. 1, 2005 (PDF)
> View CNSC release Dec. 30, 2005
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision, Dec. 30, 2005 (PDF)
"NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS, July 26, 2000 Ref. 2000-H-3
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announces public hearings on licensing actions for the following nuclear facilities:
Two-day public hearings, to be held on October 5, 2000 and December 13, 2000 for:
- GE Canada Inc., Peterborough, Ontario:
Application for the renewal of the fuel facility operating licence;
- GE Canada Inc., Toronto, Ontario:
Application for the renewal of the fuel facility operating licence;
- SRB Technologies Inc., Pembroke, Ontario:
Application for an operating licence for the nuclear substance processing facility.
Hearings will be held in the CNSC Public Hearing Room, 14th floor, 280 Slater Street, Ottawa, Ontario beginning at 8:30 a.m.
Presentations by applicants and CNSC staff on the above applications will be heard by the Commission on October 5. Written submissions from applicants and Commission staff are due by September 5, and will be available on request after that date.
Written submissions and presentations from intervenors will be considered on December 13. CNSC staff and applicant representatives will also be present. Requests to intervene before the Commission with respect to the GE Canada and SRB Technologies licensing applications are due by November 13. Requests from intervenors who prefer to appear before the Commission on October 5 must be received by September 5 [...]."
> Download full NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS (PDF)
(formerly Zircatec Precision Industries Inc.)
> View Cameco Fuel Manufacturing Inc. Environmental Incidents (Cameco)
Spill at Cameco Port Hope fuel manufacturing plant
Four drums stored on a skid and containing legacy contaminated metallic material were being moved in the CFM yard when discolouration of the ground below where the skid had been sitting was identified. CFM personnel surveyed the area for uranium and determined that the levels were above what is acceptable for that area.
There was no health or safety risk posed to the public, workers or the environment.
Three drums were identified as being in poor condition and CFM transferred the contents into new drums on May 30. [...]
The ground area with elevated readings has been delineated and the surface layer of soil will be removed on June 5.
(Cameco June 1, 2023)
CNSC issues 20-year license renewal for Cameco's Port Hope fuel manufacturing plant:
On Jan. 18, 2023, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced the Commission's decision to renew the Class IB nuclear fuel facility licence held by Cameco Fuel Manufacturing Inc. (CFM) for its facility located in the Municipality of Port Hope, Ontario. The Commission renewed the licence for a period of 20 years.
> Download: Record of Decision , Jan. 17, 2023 (PDF)
CNSC to hold hearing on 20-year license renewal for Cameco's Port Hope fuel manufacturing plant:
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) will hold a public hearing on November 23-24, 2022, to consider a licence renewal application from Cameco Corporation (Cameco) on behalf of Cameco Fuel Manufacturing Inc. (CFM) for the CFM facility. CFM is a wholly owned subsidiary of Cameco.
Requests to intervene must be filed by October 7, 2022.
> Download: Notice of Public Hearing and Participant Funding , Mar. 7, 2022 (PDF)
> Download: Revised Notice of Public Hearing , Sep. 6, 2022 (PDF)
> Download: Public Hearings Agenda , Oct. 20, 2022 (PDF)
> Download: Revised Public Hearings Agenda , Nov. 15, 2022 (PDF)
Cameco requests 20-year license renewal for Port Hope fuel manufacturing plant:
On October 4, 2021, CFM submitted an application to the CNSC to renew the applied-for one-year licence, which should expire in 2023, for a period of 20 years. In addition to the longer term, CFM is requesting a slight change to the annual production limit.
> Download: License Renewal letter , Cameco, Oct. 4, 2021 (2MB PDF)
CNSC approves 1-year licence renewal for Cameco Port Hope fuel manufacturing plant:
On Feb. 17, 2022, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced its decision to renew, for a period of 1 year, the nuclear fuel facility licence held by Cameco Corporation for Cameco Fuel Manufacturing Inc. (CFM). The renewed licence is valid until February 28, 2023.
> Download: Record of Decision , Feb. 14, 2022 (PDF)
CNSC announces hearing in writing on 1-year licence renewal application for Cameco Port Hope fuel manufacturing plant:
On Apr. 12, 2021, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission announced to conduct a hearing in writing on the 1-year licence renewal application for the Cameco FuelManufacturing Inc. facility.
Requests to intervene must be filed by November 16, 2021.
> Download: Notice of Hearing in Writing and Participant Funding , Apr. 12, 2021 (PDF - CNSC)
Cameco requests license renewal for Port Hope fuel manufacturing plant for one year:
"On December 2, 2020, Cameco applied to the CNSC to renew its licence for a period of one year. We have requested a one-year licence renewal in order to strategically separate our CFM relicensing activities from our Blind River Refinery relicensing activities which are scheduled to occur at the same time. Making this change will put licensing proceedings out of phase and deliberately establish staggered licensing activities for the future. We are not requesting any changes to the existing terms and conditions of the current licence.
An application for a 10-year licence renewal is expected to be made later this year."
(Cameco March 2021)
> Download: Application for License Renewal , Dec. 2, 2020 (PDF)
> Download: Supplemental Submission for Cameco Fuel Manufacturing One Year Licence Renewal , Mar. 8, 2021 (876kB PDF)
Small zirconium fire at Cameco Port Hope fuel manufacturing plant
A small zirconium fire occurred on a piece of equipment in the manufacturing area at Cameco Fuel Manufacturing's Port Hope facility. The fire resulted in the burning of a two-inch plastic extraction/ventilation hose and the release of smoke within the facility. All operators evacuated to their muster area.
The fire was quickly extinguished by an employee and there was no impact to employees or the environment. The CNSC and the Municipality of Port Hope have been notified.
(Cameco Dec. 1, 2017)
CNSC to hold un-hearing on revised financial guarantee for future decommissioning of Cameco Port Hope fuel fabrication plant
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) will hold a hearing in writing based solely on written submissions (written interventions permitted) in October 2017 to consider a request from Cameco Fuel Manufacturing Inc (CFM) for the Commission's acceptance of the revised financial guarantee for the future decommissioning of its fuel manufacturing facility, located in Port Hope Ontario.
Requests to intervene must be filed by October 26, 2017.
> Download: Notice of Hearing, Sep. 25, 2017 (PDF)
> Download Record of Decision , Nov. 16, 2017 (PDF)
Spill of UO2 powder at Cameco Port Hope fuel fabrication plant
CNSC staff received notification from Cameco Fuel Manufacturing Inc. (CFM) of an unusual event at their facility on August 21, 2012. There was a localized spill of uranium dioxide powder at one of the transfer stations within the facility that resulted in one worker being exposed to uranium and three other workers potentially exposed during cleanup. The worker was wearing personal protective equipment and early urinalysis tests do not indicate abnormal results. All four workers were examined by medical personnel and were temporarily re-assigned as a precautionary measure. There was no risk to the surrounding environment and the general public as a result of this event.
(CNSC Aug. 27, 2012)
CNSC issues license renewal for Port Hope fuel manufacturing plant
Following a two-day public hearing (November 3, 2011 and January 18 and 19, 2012), the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced on Feb. 29, 2012, its decision to renew for a period of ten years the Nuclear Fuel Facility Operating Licence for Cameco Corporation’s Fuel Manufacturing Facility (CFM) located in Port Hope, Ontario. The licence will be valid from March 1, 2012 to February 28, 2022.
> Download Notice of Public Hearing, Aug. 24, 2011 (PDF)
> Download Relicensing Documents (Cameco)
> Download Public Hearing Transcript - Fuel Manufacturing Inc.: Nov. 3, 2011 · Jan. 18, 2012 · Jan. 19, 2012 (PDF)
> View CNSC release Feb. 29, 2012
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision (PDF)
Cameco cuts 79 jobs at Port Hope fuel manufacturing plant due to two-week strike
Canadian uranium producer Cameco has laid off 79 non-union employees at its two nuclear fuel manufacturing plants in Ontario due to a two-week-old strike at the facilities, a company official said on Thursday (Sep 17).
Fuel manufacturing at Cameco's Port Hope, Ontario, facility has been completely halted, while the company's nearby Cobourg operation is running on a partial basis, Cameco spokesman Lyle Krahn said.
A total of 137 unionized workers walked off the job two weeks ago (Sep. 5) after failing to come to a contract agreement with the company. Key issues are wages and benefits, including retirement benefits.
(Reuters Sep. 17, 2009)
CNSC holds hearing on amendmend to financial guarantee for Zircatec Port Hope fuel fabrication plant
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) held a one-day public hearing (Sep. 13, 2007) on the application by Zircatec Precision Industries Inc. (Zircatec) for acceptance of the proposed amendment to the value of its existing financial guarantee for its nuclear fuel facility located in Port Hope, Ontario.
> Download Notice of Public Hearing, July 13, 2007 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript Sep. 13, 2007 (PDF)
> View CNSC release Oct. 25, 2007
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision (PDF)
Cameco suspends plan to produce slightly enriched uranium fuel bundles at Port Hope
Cameco's plan to produce slightly enriched uranium fuel bundles has been suspended, and could be cancelled completely.
The proposal to produce the fuel was suspended at the request of Bruce Power, the Kincardine-based customer for the enriched fuel bundles.
Bruce Power, owned in part by Cameco Corporation, has found a less expensive way to enhance safety at its generating station. The slightly enriched uranium, or low void reactivity fuel, was going to be used in an emergency situation to absorb neutrons if a reactor ever needs to be shut down quickly.
But Bruce Power still has to get Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) approval for the new plan, so the Cameco project won't be completely cancelled until that approval goes through.
(Northumberland News April 15, 2009)
CNSC approves Slightly Enriched Uranium CANDU Fuel Production project at Zircatec Port Hope plant
Following a public hearing held on June 12, 2008 in Ottawa, Ontario, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced today its decision to amend Zircatec Precision Industries Inc.'s (Zircatec) operating licence. The amended licence will authorize Zircatec to produce slightly enriched uranium (SEU) and blended dysprosium and natural uranium oxides (BDU) CANDU fuel at its facility located in Port Hope, Ontario.
> Download Notice of Public Hearing, Revision 2, May 28, 2008 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript June 12, 2008 (PDF)
> View CNSC release July 8, 2008
> Download Record of Proceedings, including Reasons for Decision
CNSC approves results of EA Screening regarding Zircatec's Slightly Enriched Uranium CANDU Fuel Production proposal in Port Hope
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) held a one-day public hearing (January 9, 2008) to consider the results of an Environmental Assessment Screening (EA Screening) regarding Zircatec Precision Industries Inc.'s (Zircatec) Slightly Enriched Uranium CANDU Fuel Production proposal for its facility located in Port Hope, Ontario.
The Commission concluded that Zircatec's project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects. The Commission therefore can proceed with its consideration of the licence application for the proposed project.
> Download Notice of Public Hearing, Nov. 7, 2007 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript Jan. 9, 2008 (PDF)
> View CNSC release Feb. 18, 2008
> Download Record of Proceedings, Feb. 18, 2008 (PDF)
> Download Record of Proceedings Erratum, April 15, 2008 (PDF)
CNSC invites Public Comment on Draft Environmental Assessment Screening Report for Zircatec Precision Industries Inc.'s Slightly Enriched Uranium CANDU Fuel Production proposal
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) invites public comment on the draft Environmental Assessment (EA) Screening Report for Zircatec Precision Industries Inc.'s Slightly Enriched Uranium CANDU Fuel Production proposal in Port Hope, Ontario.
> View CNSC Request for Public Comment, Sep. 19, 2007
> Download draft EA Screening Report (WITHHELD)
> Download Project Proposal for SEU CANDU Fuel Production May 19, 2006 - Revision 3 (2.4M PDF - Cameco)
CNSC approves EA Guidelines for Slightly Enriched Uranium CANDU Fuel Production proposal at Zircatec Port Hope fuel fabrication plant
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), after holding a one-day public hearing (June 22, 2007), approved the Environmental Assessment (EA) Guidelines regarding Zircatec Precision Industries Inc.'s (Zircatec) Slightly Enriched Uranium CANDU Fuel Production proposal for its facility located in Port Hope, Ontario.
> Download CSNC Notice of Public Hearing, Apr. 20, 2007 (PDF)
> Download Hearing Transcript June 22, 2007 (PDF)
> View CNSC release, Aug. 3, 2007
> Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision: withheld
CNSC issues license renewal, with changes for new fuel types, for Zircatec Port Hope fuel fabrication plant
On Feb. 26, 2007, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), after holding a two-day public hearing (October 4, 2006 and November 30, 2006) issued to Zircatec Precision Industries Inc. a renewal, with specific changes, of the operating licence for the Port Hope Nuclear Fuel Facility located in Port Hope, Ontario.
Zircatec Precision Industries Inc. has applied for the renewal of its licence until February 28, 2012, with specific changes with respect to its proposed production lines to produce a new fuel product containing slightly enriched uranium dioxide (SEU) and blended dysprosium and natural uranium oxides (BDU). The required feed materials (SEU and BDU powders) will be supplied by external sources.
> Download Hearing Notice, July 31, 2006 (PDF)
> Download Oct. 4, 2006, Hearing Transcript (corrected) (PDF)
> Download Revised Hearing Notice, Nov. 20, 2006 (PDF)
> Download Nov. 30, 2006, Hearing Transcript (PDF)
> View CNSC release Feb. 26, 2007
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including Reasons for Decision, Feb. 28, 2007 (PDF)
Cameco acquires Zircatec Precision Industries
"Cameco Corporation announced today it has completed the
acquisition of a 100% interest in Zircatec Precision Industries, Inc.
for $108 million." (Cameco Feb. 1, 2006)
"Cameco Corporation announced today it has reached an agreement to acquire a 100% interest in Zircatec Precision Industries, Inc. for approximately $108 million, including closing adjustments. Zircatec’s primary business is manufacturing nuclear fuel bundles for sale to companies that generate electricity from Candu reactors.
Cameco anticipates the agreement will close by early February 2006 after a number of agreement conditions are met including third-party and regulatory approvals."
(Cameco Dec. 2, 2005)
CNSC holds hearing on mid-term performance of Zircatec Port Hope fuel facility
> Download Hearing Notice Dec. 3, 2004 (PDF)
> Download Feb. 23, 2005, Hearing Transcript (revised) (PDF)
> View CNSC release May 18, 2005
> Download Record of Proceedings, May 18, 2005 (PDF)
License Renewal for Zircatec Port Hope fuel facility
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), after holding a two-day public hearing, issued a 5-year license renewal to Zircatec Precision Industries Inc. of Port Hope, Ontario to operate its fuel fabrication facility in Port Hope.
> Download CNSC Announcement (Sep. 6, 2001) (PDF)
> Download Transcript of November 15, 2001, hearing (PDF)
> Download Transcript of January 17, 2002, hearing (PDF)
> View CNSC Release Feb. 18, 2002
> Download Record of Proceedings, Including
Reasons for Decision (Feb. 18, 2002) (PDF)
On December 16, 1999, the Atomic Energy Control Board (AECB) approved the license renewal for the Zircatec Precision Industries fuel fabrication plant, located in Port Hope, Ontario.
> View AECB News Release of Dec. 17, 1999
