Approximately 1,000 hectare is occupied by sites developed for low- and intermediate-level waste,[2] an interim spent nuclear fuel storage facility, housing, roads, power lines and an airstrip.

During 1978 a programme to select a suitable site for the disposal of nuclear waste was commenced over large parts of South Africa.

Supplementary studies showed that a place approximately 100 km southeast of Springbok was ideally suited for the disposal of low- and intermediate-level wastes.

[2][3] In 1983 three farms were acquired by the state on behalf of the NECSA, which now constitute the Vaalputs Radioactive Waste Disposal Facility.

[4] Low and intermediate waste was buried in 10 meter deep trenches, which were filled with compacted soil, whereafter the surface was rehabilitated by planting local flora.