HOW TO IDENTIFY A RADIOACTIVE DEVICE, SOURCE OR
PACKAGE?
A radioactive device is an object in which a radioactive source is mounted for use in its given application. It provides shielding of the radiation, and allows a controlled beam of radiation to be used for the desired purpose. A radioactive transport package is the object or packaging in which a radioactive source or sources are transported. Radioactive devices and transport packages usually contain lead, tungsten or other dense radiation shielding material, so they are heavy for their size. Radioactive transport packages may also be devices, and they may also look similar to other industrial packages with a wooden or cardboard shipping crate to provide damage protection.
All devices and transport packages containing a source should have a trefoil symbol clearly marked on them with the type of radioactive material.
Sealed sources are usually welded stainless steel cylinders with no connectors. Most are cylindrical, with a diameter up to 10 mm and a length up to 30 mm; some are however considerably larger. Radioactive sources should have a trefoil symbol, or the word ‘radioactive’ engraved, but this may be too small to see. An unshielded radioactive source, open to view, may be extremely hazardous. DO NOT APPROACH.
A source is referred to as ‘dangerous’ if, under conditions that are not controlled, it could give rise to exposure sufficient to cause severe deterministic health effects. Picking up a dangerous source is particularly hazardous. Analyses of past emergencies show that severe deterministic health effects have resulted from holding or carrying (e.g. in a pocket) a dangerous source for just a few minutes. Therefore, efforts must be made to prevent the handling of possibly radioactive material. However, limited periods of time (a few minutes) spent near a very dangerous source, for example, for life saving purposes, should not result in severe deterministic health effects.
For further details refer Identification of Radioactive Sources and Devices (IAEA Nuclear Security Series No. 5, 2007).
WHAT TO DO IF A POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS RADIOACTIVE
SOURCE, DEVICE OR TRANSPORT PACKAGE IS FOUND?
If a radioactive source, device or transport package is found, the following steps should be observed:
- Do not touch the object.
- Evacuate the immediate area and prevent access (secure the area).
- Maximize the distance that people are from the object (for guidance, the radiation dose rate and danger is significantly reduced in most cases by retreating a distance of at least 5 m).
- Notify civil authorities, emergency services (rescue services, police) - your local contact details should be readily available.
For actions of first reponders refer Manual for First Responders to a Radiological Emergency.
To read more about Cases studies and lessons learned refer to Sources found and handled.
GATE MONITORING PROCEDURE
For assessment and actions during a gate moniroting in a metal works facility, refer to Gate Monitoring [Source: BIR]
