The 324 Building in Hanford’s 300 Area is currently being deactivated.  Radiological and non-radiological laboratories, support facilities, and administrative areas are found within the structure. 

Two “hot cell” facilities inside 324 were used for high-level radiological activities.  The Radiochemical Engineering Cells (REC) and the Shielded Materials Facility (SMF) were shielded and equipped for remote operations.  Low-level analytical laboratories in the building were used for “bench top” or small-scale experiments and radiological systems or equipment design development.  All of the radiological laboratories are being prepared for the eventual decommissioning of the 324 Building.

The non-radioactive laboratories and the high-bay addition to the 324 Building were used to create simulated high-level waste, develop full-scale equipment mock-ups, and waste remediation activities.  Some of these facilities will be used to prepare the building for deactivation.