Massachusetts Wastewater Practice Exam

In treatment plant influent, a predominant source of radioactive wastes is labs and hospitals. These facilities often utilize radioactive materials for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, such as in medical imaging, cancer treatment, or research activities. As a result, they may discharge radioactive isotopes through their wastewater systems.

The presence of radioactive substances in hospital and laboratory discharges necessitates careful monitoring and handling to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, as well as to protect the environment and public health from potential contamination.

While other industries, such as heavy industries or computer manufacturing, may produce hazardous wastes, they are not typically associated with the direct use of radioactive materials on the same scale as medical and research laboratories. Thus, these options do not commonly contribute to radioactive waste in treatment plant influent.