The following information was provided by the
Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (
LDEQ) via email:
On January 22, 2024, at approximately 1400, Central Standard Time (CST), an unidentified nuclear gauge of roughly cylindrical dimensions and less than 30 cm in length and 12 cm in width was detected by the entrance gate radiation monitor at the Louisiana Scrap Metal facility (LA Scrap) located in Gibson, LA in Terrebonne Parish. Facility scrap surveyors were immediately dispatched to more close survey the suspected gauge using Ludlum Model 3 survey instruments with external probes. During this time an additional suspected nuclear gauge, similar in design and overall dimensions to the first, was discovered by the facility's scrap surveyors. Surface radiation readings of approximately 0.9 to 1.2 mR/hr were observed at the surface of both devices. No identifying markings, labels or tags were noted on the gauges' surfaces, and both devices appeared to have sustained significant corrosion to their housings, which nonetheless appeared intact. The devices were believed by the reporting party to have originated with scrap from the disassembly of a 220-foot marine vessel purchased by LA Scrap from a Florida scrap broker. The above incident was reported via the LDEQ Radiation Hotline at approximately 1335 CST on January 23, 2024. The facility is awaiting identification of the devices' isotope(s) (to be provided by the LDEQ) prior to contracting with BBP Sales, Louisiana Radioactive Material License, LA-10799-L01, for inspection, leak testing, packaging, and disposal of the devices.
The facility environmental health and safety (EHS) manager, stated that the gauges have been enclosed in a bucket of moist dirt and secured within an area on site with restricted access. Facility workers were advised by the EHS manager to stay clear of the area in the meantime.
LA Event Report ID: LA240002