Australians unite to search for radioactive capsule
2023.02.01 01:37
By Kristina Sobol
Budrigannews.com – As the seventh day of the search for a hazardous capsule that went missing in the Outback approaches, Australian authorities will examine laws that impose a fine of A$1,000 (707 dollars) for improper handling of radioactive materials.
The tiny capsule from a mining device that was lost in transit more than two weeks ago is being searched for by emergency response department officials from Western Australia, defense authorities, radiation specialists, and others.
A gauge that was used to measure the density of iron ore feed being transported from Rio Tinto contained the radioactive capsule (NYSE:). from the state’s remote Gudai-Darri mine in the Kimberley region to a facility in Perth’s suburbs, a distance greater than Great Britain’s length.
According to state legislation from 1975, failing to handle radioactive substances safely carries a penalty of A$1,000 and A$50 per day the offense continues.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said at a news conference in the state capital of Perth, “That figure is ridiculously low, but I suspect that it’s ridiculously low because people didn’t think such an item could be lost,” referring to the fine.
Caesium-137, which has a diameter of 6 mm and a length of 8 mm, is contained within the silver capsule, which gives off 10 X-rays per hour.
Albanese stated, “It shouldn’t have been lost.”
On Monday, Rio Tinto expressed regret for the defeat. It had entrusted shipment to specialized transport and packing companies.
Amber-Jade Sanderson, the state minister for health, said at the news conference that her government was looking to change laws to make it possible for higher penalties and cost recovery in such situations.
Sanderson stated:
“We are looking at how we can increase that.” He added, “The current fine system is unacceptably low.”
She stated that the investigation suggested that incompetence, not conspiracy, was to blame for the loss.
Authorities believe that the capsule fell out because of loosening screws and a bolt on the gauge caused by the bumpy road. On January 25, the capsule’s disappearance was discovered while the gauge was being unpacked for inspection. It was picked up from the mine site on January 12.
Even though driving by it is thought to be relatively low risk, similar to taking an X-ray, people have been advised to stay at least five meters (16 feet) away from the capsule if they spot it because exposure could cause radiation burns or radiation sickness.
