Construction authorization and the licensing of a high-level waste repository involve assessing whether the geologic setting and the engineered barrier system and the shafts, boreholes, and their seals will perform concurrently and compatibly at a particular site to assure that releases of radionuclides to the accessible environment conform to Environmental Protection Agency standards. Construction of shafts and boreholes in geologic media alters the natural setting and may create preferential pathways for groundwater flow and consequently migration of radionuclides. Since these pathways could adversely affect the isolation capabilities of the repository over the long term, the NRC has required in 10 CFR Part 60 that boreholes and shafts be sealed at permanent closure of the repository. This document provides general guidance for identifying what types of information should be developed, and identifies issues and points of concern about borehole and shaft seals that should be addressed prior to the submittal by DOE of a license application for construction authorization.