DCIC meaning

DCIC describes a heavy, shielded waste container made from ductile (spheroidal graphite) cast iron, used in nuclear decommissioning and the storage and transport of radioactive waste (typically low or intermediate level). The term is not defined in legislation or case law; it is an industry and procurement term. It most commonly denotes a Ductile Cast Iron Container (often misrendered as “Ductile Iron Cast Container”). Legal relevance centres on regulatory compliance rather than naming. Use of a DCIC is assessed against the IAEA transport regulations (SSR-6) as implemented by the Carriage of Dangerous Goods regime, with package design approval and transport safety cases required where applicable. In Great Britain, oversight involves the Office for Nuclear Regulation (competent authority for Class 7 transport), alongside environmental permitting for radioactive substances and nuclear site licence conditions. In Ireland, ADR-based transport rules are enforced by the Health and Safety Authority, with radiological control by the Environmental Protection Agency. DCICs feature in nuclear site licensing documentation, decommissioning contracts, package approval certificates and waste management strategies, and must meet relevant Waste Acceptance Criteria for interim storage and eventual disposal. Usage and legal treatment are broadly consistent across England & Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland.