Australia is currently searching for a lost radioactive capsule that went missing during transport. A truck was transporting the capsule, containing a small amount of radioactive material, from Sydney to Adelaide, but it was last seen at a rest stop in the Riverland region of South Australia..
The half-centimeter capsule, made of heavy metal, protects the radioactive material inside. Industrial radiography uses the material inside the capsule to inspect the integrity of metal structures like bridges and pipelines
Should you be worried?
Despite the lost radioactive capsule posing minimal risk to the public, the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) urges caution when handling the small amount of radioactive material inside. They advise the public not to handle the capsule if found as it is not designed for untrained individuals. Additionally, they remind that improper handling of the capsule, which is built to withstand impact and fire, could still pose a potential danger.
Current Developments and Their Impact
What does this mean for transportation?
Authorities have launched a search for the capsule, with teams scouring the Riverland region and checking rest stops and trucking companies. The trucking company responsible for the transport has also been cooperating with authorities in the search effort.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of transporting radioactive materials, and the Transport Workers Union has called for a review of the current regulations and guidelines for transporting such materials.
The search for the lost capsule continues, and authorities urge the public to report any sightings or information. If found, do not touch the capsule and immediately contact the police or ARPANSA
The lost radioactive capsule incident highlights the importance of proper handling and transportation of radioactive materials. The authorities are taking necessary measures to locate the capsule and ensure the safety of the public. It also brings attention to the need for reviewing the regulations and guidelines for transportation of such materials.
