N.C. Radiation Protection Section was notified on 24 Oct. 2006 by the
RSO for
Flowserve US Inc. of a booth radiography source disconnect. The sealed source involved is reported as approximately 4.3 Curies of
Ir-192. Discovery of the disconnect and subsequent actions were made in accordance with licensee policy and procedures. The licensee is controlling access to the booth, allowing for a safe and well considered response. The licensee is in contact with the vender of the camera and associated equipment in an effort to determine the best course of action (i.e. source recovery).
The NC Radiation Protection Section is working in conjunction with the licensee and vender and will continue to update NRC as appropriate.
The Flowserve Inc. RSO has reported that by following directions from vendor, the source was successfully retrieved and is in the safe, shielded and secure position. He further reports he is immediately replacing all similar equipment and returning the old equipment (including the specific malfunctioning equipment associated with this incident) to the vendor. Both Flowserve and the equipment vendor are planning after action reports to determine root cause if possible.
North Carolina Ref. NC-06-33.