Very low-level waste (VLLW) is waste that is low in activity concentration but above clearance levels. This waste contains some longer-lived radionuclides such that it would take many decades for it to decay to below clearance levels. It does not require a high level of containment although radiation protection provisions are needed while the waste is being processed. Its activity concentration does not usually exceed one hundred times clearance levels for each of the radionuclides concerned (IAEA, 2004b; IAEA, 2009c). For convenience, waste with activity concentrations in the region of, or below, clearance levels is sometimes processed together with VLLW. In some countries, VLLW is disposed of in purpose-built disposal facilities, in the form of earthen trenches with engineered covers. In other countries it is disposed of with other waste types, e. g., low-level waste. The decision on disposal method is usually made on economic and/or regulatory grounds.