Darlington Nuclear Station water release update

Testing shows normal background levels of tritium

TORONTO , Dec. 22 /CNW/ - Water sampling at local water treatment facilities indicates that levels of tritium continue to be at normal background (safe) levels following an inadvertent release of water containing tritium and hydrazine at the Darlington Nuclear Station yesterday.

The Ministry of the Environment, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, the Region of Durham Water Treatment Operators, the Durham Medical Officer of Health, and other appropriate agencies were notified yesterday. Nearby municipalities were also notified. OPG is working closely with these agencies and taking all conservative, precautionary measures to ensure the public and the environment continue to be protected. Regular updates to surrounding communities were issued during the night and will continue.

All four sets of samples taken throughout the night at municipal water treatment plants indicated normal background levels. Further samples will continue to be taken regularly.

Staff at the plant are recovering water that remained on the property. The water was released from a holding tank outside the reactor building and did not affect plant operations. A full investigation of the cause is underway. The event occurred at approximately three o'clock on Monday afternoon.

For background on tritium, please refer to the link below.

http://www.nuclearsafety.gc.ca/eng/mediacentre/updates/tritium_drinking_water_aug_2009.cfm

For further information: OPG Media Relations, 1-877-592-4008 or [phone], www.opg.com