Environment & Safety

Image
Three people wearing hard hats with lights walking through tunnel
In June 2021, Cigar Lake Mine celebrated its fourth consecutive win of the John T. Ryan Regional Safety Trophy.

Safety

We manage the safety of our workers through programs, systems, and standards, with our Safety, Health, Environment and Quality (SHEQ) Policy providing overarching guidance. There are many aspects of the management system that contribute to a safe work environment, a few examples include:

  • Risk assessments help identify issues and determine the appropriate controls; the corrective action process verifies that incidents and near misses are reported, tracked, investigated and shared with colleagues; and emergency preparedness and planning prepare us to respond to serious incidents.
  • We have developed 12 corporate safety standards to help protect our workers from our most common hazards. Some standards guide our general safety practices, such as our job hazard analysis and our job task observation, and other standards deal with specific hazardous situations (similar to other companies’ life saving rules): such as fall protection, confined space entry, rigging and hoisting, and control of hazardous energy (also referred to as lockout/tagout).
  • Routine audits are conducted to monitor compliance with regulations and our own requirements. These and other aspects of the management system are routinely examined to verify that they continue to be effective at keeping our workers safe.

Recognized for four consecutive years by the Canadian Institute of Mining's John T. Ryan Regional Safety Trophy, Cigar Lake's risk-based approach and strong safety culture seeks to introduce safety controls before incidents occur.

Radiation Protection

Radiation risks are effectively managed at Cigar Lake through a formal radiation protection program and dedicated personnel who ensure that doses to workers are as low as reasonably achievable. The program ensures that radiation protection is considered in the physical design of all facilities and operating procedures. It also provides for systematic monitoring of radiation in work areas and tracking the exposures of individual workers using a combination of monitoring devices and health testing. Radiation exposures at Cigar Lake are far below the regulated limits.

Environmental Protection

At Cameco, protection of the environment is one of our highest corporate priorities during all stages of our activities, from exploration through development, operations, decommissioning, and reclamation.

We monitor our performance by tracking corporate and site-specific key performance indicators, conducting environmental monitoring programs, and regularly auditing our adherence to the requirements of these programs We use the information from all of our programs to help us to identify opportunities to improve.

Environmental management system

We have a ISO 14001-certified environmental management system used across our operating sites, which is supported by a corporate Environmental Management Program that outlines the operating requirements sites must meet. Our environmental management system encourages and promotes continuous adaptation of our practices based on new information and technologies.

Environmental risk assessments

We complete environmental risk assessments to systematically identify, quantify, and to characterize the potential risks to the environment, workers, and the public. We use our environmental risk assessments to inform our decisions and actions. Additionally, we complete an iterative process, where required, to verify that our proposed measures to protect the environment and the public are effective. We review or update the assessments every five years, incorporating results from our environmental monitoring programs and other scientific advances.

Environmental performance reports

For our Saskatchewan operations, every five years we also compare monitoring data collected during the reporting period against predictions contained in approved environmental risk assessments or environmental assessments. By reviewing the data from the performance reports and conducting risks assessments, we are able to demonstrate that human health and the environment in the vicinity of our Saskatchewan operations remains protected. Results from these analyses are also used to inform changes to the environmental monitoring programs conducted at each operation.

Corrective action process

We have a corrective action process in place to systematically investigate and address the causes of non-conformance to regulatory requirements or internal standards. The process includes classifying the non-conformance, assigning the appropriate level of investigation (dependent on incident significance), and tracking the recommended corrective actions to prevent and mitigate similar occurrences.

Audits

To support our culture of continuous improvement, our processes and operations undergo regular audits, including:

  • Our environmental management system is audited by a third-party every three years as a requirement to maintain our ISO 14001 certification.
  • Our SHEQ team conducts an internal audit of our SHEQ programs on a three-year cycle. The total audit scope is split in half and executed on a rotating basis. This means that all our sites undergo at least two audits to cover all aspects of our SHEQ programs within every three-year period. The audit follows the ISO 19001 process and encompasses our environmental and safety programs.
  • We also maintain and implement an internal audit program at our corporate office. Results and recommendations from this systematic and documented process are presented to senior management, who are responsible for implementing them and correcting any deficiencies. The internal audit group reports to the audit and finance committee of the board.

Environmental Monitoring

Comprehensive monitoring programs are in place at the Cigar Lake operation to help protect the surrounding environment. Samples of water, air, soil, plants and fish are collected from numerous locations around the site and tested to confirm that environmental protection systems are effective. Monitoring results are submitted to federal and provincial regulatory authorities for review. Cameco also supports independent regional monitoring downstream of its Saskatchewan operations to ensure there are no cumulative effects on the regional watershed. The extensive monitoring undertaken at Cigar Lake has identified no significant impact on the surrounding environment.

Cigar Lake Monitoring Results
Treated Water Quality — Arsenic

Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations (mg/L)Cigar Lake Level (mg/L)
22-Apr0.30.1182
22-May0.30.0992
22-Jun0.30.1158
22-Jul0.30.1049
22-Aug0.30.1011
22-Sep0.30.1227
22-Oct0.30.1029
22-Nov0.30.0926
22-Dec0.30.1185
23-Jan0.30.0983
23-Feb0.30.1066
23-Mar0.30.1061
23-Apr0.30.0991
23-May0.30.1081
23-Jun0.30.0996
23-Jul0.30.0079
23-Aug0.30.0996
23-Sep0.30.0602
23-Oct0.30.0569
23-Nov0.30.0951
23-Dec0.30.0873
24-Jan0.30.0936
24-Feb0.30.081
24-Mar 0.3 0.0713
 

Cigar Lake Monitoring Results
Treated Water Quality — Copper

Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations (mg/L) Cigar Lake Level (mg/L)
22-Apr0.30.0004
22-May0.30.0002
22-Jun0.30.0002
22-Jul0.30.0003
22-Aug0.30.0002
22-Sep0.30.0002
22-Oct0.30.0002
22-Nov0.30.0003
22-Dec0.30.0001
23-Jan0.30.0001
23-Feb0.30.0002
23-Mar0.30.0001
23-Apr0.30.0002
23-May0.30.0003
23-Jun0.30.0003
23-Jul0.30.0003
23-Aug0.30.0005
23-Sep0.30.0004
23-Oct0.30.0004
23-Nov0.30.0005
23-Dec0.30.0004
24-Jan0.30.0007
24-Feb0.30.0002
24-Mar 0.3 0.0003
 

Cigar Lake Monitoring Results
Treated Water Quality — Lead

Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations (mg/L)Cigar Lake Level (mg/L)
22-Apr0.10.0001
22-May0.10.0001
22-Jun0.10.0001
22-Jul0.10.0001
22-Aug0.10.0001
22-Sep0.10.0001
22-Oct0.10.0001
22-Nov0.10.0001
22-Dec0.10.0001
23-Jan0.10.0001
23-Feb0.10.0001
23-Mar0.10.0001
23-Apr0.10.0001
23-May0.10.0001
23-Jun0.10.0001
23-Jul0.10.0001
23-Aug0.10.0001
23-Sep0.10.0001
23-Oct0.10.0001
23-Nov0.10.0001
23-Dec0.10.0001
24-Jan0.10.0001
24-Feb0.10.0001
24-Mar 0.1 0.0001
 

Cigar Lake Monitoring Results
Treated Water Quality — Nickel

Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations (mg/L)Cigar Lake Level (mg/L)
22-Apr0.50.0008
22-May0.50.0006
22-Jun0.50.0005
22-Jul0.50.0005
22-Aug0.50.0007
22-Sep0.50.0006
22-Oct0.50.0007
22-Nov0.50.0006
22-Dec0.50.0006
23-Jan0.50.0007
23-Feb0.50.0007
23-Mar0.50.0008
23-Apr0.50.0006
23-May0.50.0007
23-Jun0.50.0007
23-Jul0.50.001
23-Aug0.50.0009
23-Sep0.50.0009
23-Oct0.50.001
23-Nov0.50.0018
23-Dec0.50.0017
24-Jan0.50.0014
24-Feb0.50.0011
24-Mar 0.5 0.001
 

Cigar Lake Monitoring Results
Treated Water Quality — Zinc

Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations (mg/L)Cigar Lake Level (mg/L)
22-Apr0.50.0241
22-May0.50.0168
22-Jun0.50.0123
22-Jul0.50.0106
22-Aug0.50.0094
22-Sep0.50.0276
22-Oct0.50.0271
22-Nov0.50.0161
22-Dec0.50.045
23-Jan0.50.0509
23-Feb0.50.0511
23-Mar0.50.0478
23-Apr0.50.035
23-May0.50.0379
23-Jun0.50.0297
23-Jul0.50.0228
23-Aug0.50.022
23-Sep0.50.0242
23-Oct0.50.0101
23-Nov0.50.007
23-Dec0.50.0151
24-Jan0.50.0138
24-Feb0.50.0141
24-Mar 0.5 0.0077
 

Cigar Lake Monitoring Results
Treated Water Quality — Suspended Solids

Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations (mg/L)Cigar Lake Level (mg/L)
22-Apr151
22-May151
22-Jun151
22-Jul151
22-Aug151
22-Sep152
22-Oct151
22-Nov152
22-Dec151
23-Jan152
23-Feb151
23-Mar151
23-Apr152
23-May151
23-Jun153
23-Jul151
23-Aug151
23-Sep151
23-Oct151
23-Nov151
23-Dec151
24-Jan151
24-Feb151
24-Mar 15 1
 

Cigar Lake Monitoring Results
Treated Water Quality — Radium-226

Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations (Bq/L)Cigar Lake Level (Bq/L)
22-Apr0.370.004
22-May0.370.006
22-Jun0.370.007
22-Jul0.370.005
22-Aug0.370.007
22-Sep0.370.012
22-Oct0.370.009
22-Nov0.370.013
22-Dec0.370.005
23-Jan0.370.008
23-Feb0.370.006
23-Mar0.370.007
23-Apr0.370.004
23-May0.370.004
23-Jun0.370.007
23-Jul0.370.009
23-Aug0.370.013
23-Sep0.370.009
23-Oct0.370.007
23-Nov0.370.011
23-Dec0.370.013
24-Jan0.370.009
24-Feb0.370.008
24-Mar 0.37 0.006
 

Cigar Lake Monitoring Results
Treated Water Quality — pH

Authorized Maximum pHCigar Lake Level pHAuthorized Minimum pH
22-Apr9.57.56
22-May9.57.46
22-Jun9.57.46
22-Jul9.57.36
22-Aug9.57.26
22-Sep9.57.26
22-Oct9.576
22-Nov9.57.26
22-Dec9.57.46
23-Jan9.57.46
23-Feb9.57.46
23-Mar9.57.26
23-Apr9.57.36
23-May9.57.36
23-Jun9.57.26
23-Jul9.57.26
23-Aug9.57.16
23-Sep9.57.16
23-Oct9.576
23-Nov9.57.16
23-Dec9.57.36
24-Jan9.57.46
24-Feb9.57.26
24-Mar 9.5 7.3 6
 

Cigar Lake Monitoring Results
Treated Water Quality — Selenium

Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment Limit (mg/L)Cigar Lake Level (mg/L)
22-Apr0.60.0036
22-May0.60.0029
22-Jun0.60.0041
22-Jul0.60.0032
22-Aug0.60.0036
22-Sep0.60.0028
22-Oct0.60.0032
22-Nov0.60.0032
22-Dec0.60.003
23-Jan0.60.0033
23-Feb0.60.0028
23-Mar0.60.0015
23-Apr0.60.0017
23-May0.60.002
23-Jun0.60.0017
23-Jul0.60.0016
23-Aug0.60.0016
23-Sep0.60.0026
23-Oct0.60.0025
23-Nov0.60.002
23-Dec0.60.0022
24-Jan0.60.0026
24-Feb0.60.0018
24-Mar 0.6 0.0016
 

Cigar Lake Monitoring Results
Treated Water Quality — Uranium

Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment Limit (mg/L)Cigar Lake Level (mg/L)
22-Apr2.50.0004
22-May2.50.0004
22-Jun2.50.0003
22-Jul2.50.0003
22-Aug2.50.0002
22-Sep2.50.0001
22-Oct2.50.0001
22-Nov2.50.0002
22-Dec2.50.0002
23-Jan2.50.0003
23-Feb2.50.0002
23-Mar2.50.0002
23-Apr2.50.0003
23-May2.50.0002
23-Jun2.50.0001
23-Jul2.50.0001
23-Aug2.50.0001
23-Sep2.50.0002
23-Oct2.50.0002
23-Nov2.50.0003
23-Dec2.50.0004
24-Jan2.50.0003
24-Feb2.50.0002
24-Mar 2.5 0.0002
 

Cigar Lake Monitoring Results
Treated Water Quality — Molybdenum

Cigar Lake Level (mg/L)
22-Apr0.0434
22-May0.0321
22-Jun0.0322
22-Jul0.0582
22-Aug0.0596
22-Sep0.0637
22-Oct0.0372
22-Nov0.0747
22-Dec0.0349
23-Jan0.041
23-Feb0.0396
23-Mar0.0373
23-Apr0.0337
23-May0.045
23-Jun0.0657
23-Jul0.0428
23-Aug0.0572
23-Sep0.0248
23-Oct0.022
23-Nov0.0411
23-Dec0.036
24-Jan0.0559
24-Feb0.041
24-Mar 0.429
 

Cigar Lake Monitoring Results
Treated Water Quality — Un-ionized Ammonia as Nitrogen

Metal and Diamond Mining Effluent Regulations (mg/L) Cigar Lake Level (mg/L)
22-Apr0.50.01
22-May0.50.01
22-Jun0.50.01
22-Jul0.50.01
22-Aug0.50.01
22-Sep0.50.01
22-Oct0.50.01
22-Nov0.50.01
22-Dec0.50.01
23-Jan0.50.01
23-Feb0.50.01
23-Mar0.50.01
23-Apr0.50.01
23-May0.50.01
23-Jun0.50.01
23-Jul0.50.01
23-Aug0.50.01
23-Sep0.50.01
23-Oct0.50.01
23-Nov0.50.01
23-Dec0.50.01
24-Jan0.50.01
24-Feb0.50.01
24-Mar 0.5 0.01
 

Cigar Lake Monitoring Results
Ambient Air Quality – Annual Average Total Suspended Particulate (TSP)

 Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment Standard - see note (µg/m³)Annual Average (µg/m³)
2012707.6
20137016
20147012.2
20157014.9
20166011.2
20176012.1
2018608.9
2019609.5
2020606
2021609.2
20226012.7
20236017.6
2024 Q16029.6
 

NOTE - Regulations replaced and standard revised on June 1, 2015; however for consistency, the old value is referenced for the 2015 reporting year. Reporting against the new value began in Q1 2016.

Environmental Incidents and Other Events

Environmental incidents and other events are reported to regulatory agencies as required by federal and provincial regulations.

Latest incident or event:

DateJuly 11, 2024
IncidentEvent Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer
DetailsA fire alarm in the underground (UG) fuel bay was activated at 09:51 pm.
Corrective ActionAll UG personnel reported to the refuge stations and were accounted for by incident command. MRT responded to the UG fuel bay, swept the mine, and confirmed there was no smoke or fire. The fire alarm panel was reset, stench gas cartridges replaced and the MRT stood down. 
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
Past Reporting
DateJuly 11, 2024
IncidentEvent Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer
DetailsA fire alarm in the underground (UG) fuel bay was activated at 09:51 pm.
Corrective ActionAll UG personnel reported to the refuge stations and were accounted for by incident command. MRT responded to the UG fuel bay, swept the mine, and confirmed there was no smoke or fire. The fire alarm panel was reset, stench gas cartridges replaced and the MRT stood down. 
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
DateJuly 2, 2024
IncidentEvent Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer
DetailsA fire alarm at the Shaft #2 Mine Air Exhaust Building was activated at 05:17 p.m. The ERT responded and confirmed there was no fire. The fire alarm panel was reset and the ERT stood down. The alarm was triggered by dust from concrete dust clean-up activities making its way through the vents.
Corrective ActionN/A
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
DateJuly 3, 2024
IncidentEvent Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer
DetailsA fire, caused by a lighting storm and dry forest conditions, was observed by site personnel and safety team on the lease between the site guard shack and gravel pit. The site ERT team deployed to find the location and the status of the fire. Upon locating the fire, the team worked to prevent it from spreading and impacting the site, using water packs and hand tools. SPSA Stony Rapids deployed a helicopter to site to confirm the location and control of the fire, then landed and confirmed the fire to be under control. The safety team will continue to monitor the area. 
Corrective ActionN/A
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
DateJune 27, 2024
IncidentLost-Time Injury
DetailsOn Dec. 23, a worker injured their right bicep while attempting to remove a seized pin. On Dec. 28, the worker was placed on restricted work duties. The worker continued to experience symptoms related to the injury, and after following up with offsite medical attention, was scheduled for surgery. Starting July 6, 2024, this injury will be reclassified to a lost-time injury.
Corrective ActionAn investigation was completed to determine the contributing factors to the event. It found the injury was caused by using the incorrect tool for the job.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
DateJune 21, 2024
IncidentDangerous Occurrence
DetailsA worker was on the second rung of a ladder when the top of the ladder came loose and shifted backward. The worker stepped off the ladder and was not injured. Investigation determined the wedge that secured the clamp at the top of the ladder had come loose and caused the clamp to open. 
Corrective ActionThe scaffolding has been repaired and inspected. Site scaffold erectors are completing inspections on the scaffolding with increased focus on similar ladder attachments.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
DateMay 28, 2024
Incident
Dangerous Occurrence
DetailsA cage operator opened the door to signal to the hoist operator and then proceeded out of the cage. When signaling to release the cage after closing the door, a rock fell from above and landed beside the cage operator. The operator was not injured, however, there was the potential for a more serious outcome had they been contacted by the rock.
Corrective ActionThe headframe was inspected for any other rocks on the beams. The shaft was also inspected. An investigation in conjunction with the site Occupational Health and Safety Committee will be conducted.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
DateMay 24, 2024
Incident
Reportable Discharge
DetailsA compressor for the process water cooling loop was observed not running. Upon further investigation, the condenser had lost its entire 310-pound charge of R134A refrigerant.
Corrective ActionEquipment is not operating at this time; investigation into the cause of the leak and possible repairs will be completed.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingno measurable impact to the environment1
DateMay 17, 2024
IncidentEvent Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer
DetailsA fire alarm at the administration building was activated at 08:43 pm on May 16, 2024.
Corrective ActionThe ERT responded to the firehall and was put on standby while the field coordinator assessed the situation. This was a witnessed event and it was confirmed that dust from sweeping activities set off the alarm. The alarm panel was reset and the ERT stood down.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
DateMarch 4, 2024
IncidentEnvironmental Action Level Exceedance
DetailsOn March 4, 2024, a treated effluent pond was released to the environment that was above the action level for molybdenum of 1.1 mg/L as stated in the environmental code of practice in the Cigar Lake Environment Management Program. The result from the external laboratory for the pond was 1.36 mg/L. The pond fill sample result from the Cigar Lake laboratory for the pond was 0.06 mg/L on March 3, 2024
Corrective ActionAn additional sample collected on March 4, 2024 was sent to the external laboratory for re-analysis. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the event.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingno measurable impact to the environment1
DateMarch 2, 2024
IncidentEvent Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer
DetailsA worker tripped on some equipment in the Shaft 2 Headframe. The emergency response team stabilized the situation and transported the worker to the health centre, where the worker was provided first aid treatment. The worker returned to full duties the following day.
Corrective ActionThe event has been investigated, and corrective actions have been put in place. The event has been reported to the CNSC.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
DateNovember 19, 2023
IncidentEvent Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer
DetailsA worker slipped and fell when exiting an administrative building. The Emergency Response Team transported the worker to the health centre. Further medical treatment will be pursued offsite.
Corrective ActionPrior to the incident, the site received freezing rain. Although the area was sanded extensively, ice remained on the metal grating of the stairs. The worker was using traction aids at the time of the incident.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
DateNovember 13, 2023
IncidentRadiation Action Level Exceedance
DetailsAn underground worker who spent 25 days on site during the third quarter had an average weekly effective dose of 1.31 mSv, exceeding the weekly action level of the Radiation Code of Practice.
Corrective ActionThe incident is being investigated through interviews and reviews of the worker’s tasks and activities. The incident has been reported to the CNSC.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
DateSeptember 25, 2023
IncidentDangerous Occurrence
DetailsThe pressure on a tunnel backfill bulkhead increased unexpectedly. The tunnel backfill pour was halted. A short time later, the pressure decreased. Upon visual inspection of the bulkhead, a support timber was observed to have cracked. Personnel in the immediate area were directed to exit the area and barricade all entrances to it. All non-essential personnel were brought to surface as a precaution pending further assessment.
Corrective ActionUsing a drone for a remote visual inspection, an engineer determined the bulkhead is not at risk of imminent failure. The area will remain roped off as further inspections and assessments are completed. Normal operations at Cigar Lake resumed that evening. The incident was reported to the regulatory agencies.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
DateSeptember 23, 2023
IncidentReportable Spill, Discharge, Discovery or Release
DetailsThe nightshift operator noticed a 3% drop in each of the hot and cold tanks of the brine distribution system. After evaluating the data, it was determined that a leak began that evening. Following a search of the system, the leak was located on the northwest corner of the west freeze pad where a bleed valve was in a partially opened position. The leak was stopped with approximately 6 m3 of calcium chloride brine having leaked to the ground.
Corrective ActionThe supply and return flows were isolated to the freeze hole and the spilled brine was cleaned up. An investigation is underway. The incident has been reported to the CNSC.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingno measurable impact to the environment1
DateSeptember 18, 2023
IncidentEvent Requiring Reporting to the Duty Officer
DetailsA worker rolled their left ankle while transitioning from a concrete floor to metal tread plate in the Ore Loadout building. The emergency response team transported the worker to the health centre for assessment and treatment. The worker has since returned to work.
Corrective ActionThere is an approximately one-inch difference in elevation between the two floor surfaces. Paint on the floor had faded, reducing the visibility of the transition. Fresh paint is recommended to prevent recurrence. An investigation is underway, and the incident has been reported to the CNSC.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
DateSeptember 15, 2023
IncidentReportable Spill, Discharge, Discovery or Release
DetailsThree totes of sand/rock from Ore Load Out Building were placed in the domestic waste landfill. One tote was broken, and all three totes were observed to have sand/rock spilled around them. A radiation scan confirmed that the sand/rock represented a recordable radiological release.
Corrective ActionThe site was assessed by Radiation & Environment. Site Services cleaned up the sand/rock material and disposed of it onto Stockpile B. The incident has been reported to the CNSC, and is under investigation.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingno measurable impact to the environment1
DateSeptember 11, 2023
IncidentRadiation Action Level Exceedance
DetailsAfter a worker completed thickness testing of the two wash receiver vessels in slurry loadout, a sample of the long-lived radioactive dust (LLRD) came back at levels elevated above normal. A follow-up urine sampling with the worker indicated an intake that exceeded the quarterly action level of 5 mSv.
Corrective ActionFurther sampling was completed to finalize the estimated dose. The worker has been restricted from all high radiation work to ensure they do not exceed 20 mSv Cameco limit per year. The incident was reported to the CNSC, and an investigation is underway
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
DateAugust 30, 2023
IncidentReportable Spill, Discharge, Discovery or Release
DetailsA nitrogen pressure regulator malfunctioned in the process water cooling loop, resulting in a release of nitrogen gas to the atmosphere. It is estimated that one full bottle (13 m3) of nitrogen was released before the leak was detected. The process water cooling loop was shut down and the nitrogen shut off.
Corrective ActionNitrogen pressure regulator malfunctioned. The cause of the failure is under investigation. The regulator was disassembled, and internal parts ordered for repair.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingno measurable impact to the environment1
DateAugust 26, 2023
IncidentRadiation Action Level Exceedance
DetailsDuring routine review of OSLD dosimetry results, the result for a contractor was reported as 4.1 mSv for between April 1 – June 30, 2023 (Q2). After reviewing the worker’s time onsite in the quarter, it has been determined that the exposure potentially meets the criteria of a weekly action level exceedance of greater than 1 mSv in a seven-day period. As the worker’s quarterly effective dose is less than 5 mSv, there is no exceedance of the quarterly action level limit in this case.
Corrective ActionAn investigation into the cause of the event was initiated, including interviews and a review of worker activities for the time period in question.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
DateAugust 5, 2023
IncidentReportable Spill, Discharge, Discovery or Release
DetailsIn Freeze Plant #1, a worker performed maintenance repair on the auto purge from the ammonia system then put it back into service. After a few hours of operation, a malfunction on the solenoid valve occurred causing the water bubbler vessel to become filled with 5-10 lbs of ammonia. This vessel is designed to hold water and catch ammonia gases from the ammonia system. Due to the solenoid valve failing, the ammonia collected in the vessel and an unknown amount leaked into the atmosphere inside the building, causing an ammonia detector alarm to be activated.
Corrective ActionIt was determined the solenoid valve malfunctioned due to numerous plunger screws being loose, presumably from vibration. The auto purge was shut down and isolated from the system until corrective actions are taken.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingno measurable impact to the environment1
DateJuly 22, 2023
IncidentReportable Spill, Discharge, Discovery or Release
DetailsBetween July 21 at 10:40 a.m. and July 22 at 7:50 p.m., the level indicators for Pond B (treated effluent monitoring pond) dropped approximately 1.1%. It was determined that approximately 80 m3 of treated water was released through the pond liner into the environment. The treated water met all effluent quality limits. On July 23, during pond liner cleaning and inspection, the operator identified seven small holes in the liner within Pond B. Damage was likely caused by ice over the winter.
Corrective ActionAn external contractor repaired the liner on July 24.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingno measurable impact to the environment1
DateJuly 18, 2023
IncidentEmergency Transport to External Medical Facilities
DetailsAn employee was on a transmixer checking equipment in the 480 Level underground. When the employee stepped off the transmixer, their right ankle rolled, causing them to twist their knee and fall over. Co-workers brought the employee to the health center, and they subsequently received medical transport to an external medical facility.
Corrective ActionThe incident is under investigation.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingno measurable impact to the environment1
DateJuly 5, 2023
IncidentEvent Requiring Reporting to the CNSC Duty Officer
Details At 07:31 am, smoke was observed coming from the top of the Shaft #2 exhaust fan and smoke alarms were triggered. 
Corrective Action

 All underground personnel mustered in refuge stations. ERT responded, awaiting confirmation that power was disconnected before entering. The smoke was later confirmed to be coming from a variable speed drive within the MCC room. ERT did not find any smoke, fire or obvious scorching in the area and, once it was confirmed safe, underground personnel were released from refuge stations.

No one was injured and investigation into the probable cause is ongoing. The CNSC was notified.

Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingno measurable impact to the environment1
DateJune 21, 2023
IncidentReportable Spill, Discharge, Discovery or Release
DetailsDuring an environmental inspection of Stockpile C, a tear in the liner was identified. It is believed the tear occurred during the erosion gully repair work on the southeast berm on April 11, 2023. The tear is high up on the liner and no water is currently flowing into the area. This tear was not previously identified during routine inspections because there was a layer of sediment covering it, but recent rains exposed the tear. 
Corrective ActionThere was no water flowing into the area when the tear was identified. A plan is being developed to have the liner repaired in a timely manner.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingno measurable impact to the environment1
DateApril 11, 2023
Incident Reportable Spill, Discharge, Discovery or Release
DetailsWhile conducting erosion repairs on the southeast berm of Stockpile C on April 11, the HDPE liner was punctured. An estimated 1,000-2,000 L of meltwater in contact with potentially acid generating waste rock was released.
Corrective ActionA berm was created within the Stockpile C containment ditch and water is being pumped around the damaged liner section to mitigate meltwater entering the environment. A third-party contractor has been hired to repair the damaged section of the HDPE liner.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingno measurable impact to the environment1
DateApril 11, 2023
Incident Reportable Spill, Discharge, Discovery or Release
DetailsDuring routine inspections on April 11, Cameco identified erosion gullies on the southeast berm of Stockpile C (which contains Potential Acid Generating wasterock). An estimated 10,000 L of meltwater from Stockpile C was released from the containment ditch surrounding the waste rock pile.
Corrective ActionThe site services department was contacted immediately. Material from Stockpile A (clean waste rock pile) was used to reinforce the southeast berm and ensure the meltwater stayed within the containment ditch.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnegligible impact2
DateJanuary 23, 2023
IncidentReportable incident
DetailsAt the ore loadout, an operator noticed a hole in the discharge spool. Approximately 300 L of ore slurry material was released to secondary containment within the ore loadout building basement.
Corrective ActionIt is believed a worn spool caused the slurry release. The pump was shut down upon discovery and the area was cleaned up. The line will be repaired.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingno measurable impact to the environment1
DateNovember 19, 2022
IncidentReportable incident
DetailsWhile probing in a hole at the west freeze pad, the instrument snagged at the 173 m mark from the surface. Increasing tension on the winching system caused the cable to snap, resulting in the instrument falling to the hole bottom at about 455 m depth. The instrument contains a 111 GBq Am/Be source required for its operation.
Corrective ActionEfforts to retrieve the instrument began immediately. The depth that the instrument snagged corresponds to a section where directional drilling was used to alter its course. This may have resulted in the pipe slightly opening or bulging, creating a lip that caught the instrument.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingno measurable impact to the environment1
DateOctober 28, 2022
IncidentOperational Limit Exceedance - Order under the Nuclear Safety and Control Act
DetailsAn inspection by CNSC personnel determined that the current operating volume of Stockpile C – a safe storage site for potentially reactive waste rock from underground development work – exceeded its volume limit specified in the Waste Management Program.
Corrective ActionThe CNSC issued an order, which Cameco is working to address. Cameco has ceased all additions to the stockpile.  Further, a third-party expert has been to site and is confirming whether the materials are stable as currently deposited. There is no risk to the environment, public health, or safety. 
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingno measurable impact to the environment1
DateOctober 17, 2022
IncidentReportable Release
DetailsDuring inspection, an area was identified along the ramp leading into Stockpile B with elevated radiological readings upwards of 5-13 uSv/hr. The radiation department conducted a grid scan and confirmed a small area with higher radiological readings. Site Services removed the top layer of material, after which radiological readings were higher. During further scraping of the area, Site Services found a greyish material, which had radiological readings between 50-100 uSv/hr and is believed to be uranium ore.
Corrective ActionThe radiologically contaminated material was removed and placed on Stockpile B, which is designated for contaminated material. It was mixed with clean fill during the clean-up process. A subsequent grid scan confirmed the affected area went down to 0.8 uSv/hr. 
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnegligible impact2
DateOctober 1, 2022
IncidentReportable Spill
DetailsWhile the freeze plants were down due to routine site maintenance, the operator noticed the smell of ammonia by the condenser. The cause is believed to be from a small pin-hole leak within the condenser coil bundles. Ammonia level indicators in the area have remained unchanged, indicating that the release volume is likely negligible.
Corrective ActionThe condenser was pumped down and isolated. The location of the leak is being investigated.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnegligible impact2
DateJuly 9, 2022
IncidentEvent Requiring Reporting to the CNSC Duty Officer
DetailsAn emergency page was issued at 3:48 a.m. on July 9, for an injured worker at a surface freeze drill rig. The individual was struck with a pipe approximately 0.4 m in length after it fell from a height of approximately 1.5 m.
Corrective ActionThe individual was taken to the health centre where they were met by the ERT and the occupational health nurse. An investigation, in conjunction with the OHC, will be carried out.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A
DateMay 27, 2022
IncidentRadiation Action Level Exceedance
DetailsDuring routine review of PAD dosimetry results, the result for a JBS operator indicated a radon progeny exposure of 1.27 mSv. After reviewing the worker’s time onsite in the month of March, it was determined that the exposure met the criteria of a weekly action level exceedance of greater than 1 mSv in a seven day period.
Corrective ActionAn investigation into the cause of the event was initiated, including interviews and a review of worker activities for the time period in question.
Cameco Environmental Effect Ratingnot applicableN/A

Cameco Environmental Effect Rating

  • Level 1 - no measurable impact to the environment 
  • Level 2 - negligible impact 
  • Level 3 - short-term, seasonal impact 
  • Level 4 - mortality of some species, but not affecting ecosystem function 
  • Level 5 - impairment of ecosystem function 
  • N/A - not applicable 

Decommissioning

Detailed plans and financial guarantees are in place to provide for decommissioning of the Cigar Lake sites when operations end. Decommissioning will include removal of all buildings and equipment and landscaping and re-vegetation of disturbed areas. All underground workings and other mine facilities will be sealed off and secured. A monitoring program will be in place to ensure the sites remain in a secure and stable state for the long-term. For more information, see Preliminary Decommissioning Plan - Summary - Cigar Lake Operation.

Waste Management

Ore mined at Cigar Lake is milled at Orano's McClean Lake operation. There is no tailings management facility at the Cigar Lake site. The jet boring mining method employed at Cigar Lake generates less waste rock than other methods. The waste rock that is brought to the surface is stored on lined pads. Waste rock containing small amounts of uranium is transported to the McClean Lake mill where it is used to blend down the high-grade ore prior to milling.

Environmental Risk Assessment

All new, or substantially changed, mining developments may be subject to environmental risk assessments (ERAs) to identify potential effects on the environment. ERAs follow guidance provided by CSA and various agencies, such as Health Canada (HC), Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC).

In 2017, Cameco completed an environmental risk assessment (ERA) to align with the standardized requirements found in CSA N288.6-12 ERA at Class I Nuclear Facilities and Uranium Mines and Mills. An addendum to the ERA was completed in 2019.

Public Summary - Environmental Risk Assessment - Cigar Lake Operation (PDF 1.4 MB)

Regulatory Oversight

The primary regulator for the Cigar Lake operation is the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC). The mine is also subject to regulatory oversight from several other federal and provincial agencies including Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment. Federal and provincial regulators conduct regular site inspections and audits to verify that people and the environment are protected. Uranium mining and milling operations in Canada are licensed by the CNSC.

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Sustainability at Cameco

When measuring the sustainability and ethical impact of a company, environmental, social and governance (ESG) are key factors considered by the public and investors. Sustainability and ESG matters have been an important focus at Cameco for many years and we have a strong performance record.

Learn more