Australia launches search for radioactive capsule
Australian authorities were searching on Saturday for a small radioactive silver capsule that disappeared while being transported from a mine.
Australia still has a very large mining industry.
AFP
Research was underway on Saturday in the state of Western Australia to find as soon as possible a tiny radioactive capsule that disappeared during its transport from a mine. The 8mm by 6mm silver capsule, which is used in mining operations, has not been found since mid-January, emergency services said.
It contains a radioactive substance, cesium 137, according to the Department of Health of Western Australia. The capsule reportedly fell from a truck as it was being transported to a storage location. Health authorities have warned against handling this object that could cause burns or illness.
Rescue services said she was lost between the remote town of Newman and the northern suburbs of Perth, a distance of around 1,400 kilometres. “The concern is that someone picks it up not knowing what they are dealing with,” said Dr Andrew Robertson, Western Australia medical services manager.
A spokesman for the fire department said the capsule is being sought first in populated areas but it could take weeks. Authorities were alerted to the disappearance on Wednesday after the company responsible for the capsule realized it was missing, he added.
AFP
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