The following report was received via fax:
K&S Associates were attempting to perform a routine calibration of a Beta-Cath system, when the Sr-90 source train became stuck in the 'out' position. They believed they could cut the catheter and isolate the source train and subsequently place the train and housing unit into a pig and send the system back to the manufacturer. While cutting the plastic catheter, they misjudged where the source train was located and severed the train. Approximately 10 mL of water spilled out onto a table, along with the train. Paper toweling was used to wipe up the water. A survey was performed to account for the seeds. The total leaking activity was under 3.5 milliCuries. The entire source train of 4 cm contained 16 seeds with a total activity of 56 milliCuries. After the Division received the notification from K&S, two members of our staff from the Nashville Field Office responded to the incident to investigate. The Division found that K&S Associates were performing work they were licensed to do. However, when the catheter was cut, an unlicensed task was performed. A Notice of Noncompliance was issued. K&S responded to the noncompliance letter with the actions that were implemented as a result of this incident.
Tennessee Report Number: TN-11-10