Why are chemical, not radiological, risks emphasised at enrichment sites?

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Chemical Risks Predominate at Uranium Enrichment Sites Due to Uranium Hexafluoride

Chemical risks are emphasized at uranium enrichment facilities because the primary concern is the handling of uranium hexafluoride (UF6). When this substance interacts with water vapor present in the air, it transforms into harmful chemicals. While UF6 is toxic, it is also barely radioactive and does not typically travel significant distances, making off-site radiological consequences from attacks on these specific types of facilities unlikely.
The Nature of Uranium Hexafluoride

Uranium hexafluoride is the key substance of concern at enrichment facilities. Before uranium is utilized in a nuclear reactor, it possesses only minimal radioactivity. However, UF6 itself is a toxic chemical. Its limited tendency to travel great distances and its low level of radioactivity mean that the primary danger it poses is through its chemical reactions rather than its radiation.
Environmental Dispersion and Facility Design

The dispersion of harmful chemicals from UF6 depends significantly on atmospheric conditions. In low wind conditions, the material is expected to settle near the enrichment facility. Conversely, higher winds can cause the material to travel further, though it is also likely to become more dispersed. The risk of chemical dispersal is notably reduced for underground enrichment facilities, as the subterranean design inherently contains the material.
Limited Off-Site Radiological Consequences

Attacks on uranium enrichment facilities are generally assessed as unlikely to lead to substantial consequences beyond the immediate vicinity of the site. This is largely due to the chemical nature of UF6 and the fact that the uranium itself is only slightly radioactive at this stage of the nuclear fuel cycle. Experts indicate that the primary risks are chemical, not radiological, particularly when compared to potential impacts from damaged nuclear reactors.

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Why are chemical, not radiological, risks emphasised at enrichment sites?

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