The following information was received from the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania via facsimile:
Notifications: On August 25, 2016, the Department [Pennsylvania Bureau of Radiation Protection] was notified that a licensee had a cobalt-60 (Co-60) source rod that became bent and unusable during installation into a gauge at a work location. This is reportable per 10 CFR 30.50(b)(2).
Event Description: During the process of installing a Co-60 source rod and moving it from a transfer shield to a gauge and industrial process mold, the licensee observed difficulty in getting the source rod to insert into the mold. Using a remote handling device, the Co-60 source was partially removed from the transfer shield and briefly (about 30 seconds) inspected. It was noted that the rod was partially bent. The rod was immediately retracted into the fully shielded position in the transfer shield. The transfer shield containing the Co-60 rod was then taken to a designated storage area where it is secured from unauthorized access. The calculated dose to the workers was estimated to be 0.44 millirem. No exposures over regulatory limits occurred.
Radionuclide: Co-60; Manufacturer: Berthold Technologies; Source Model: P 2608-100; Gauge Model: LB 300 ML; Source Serial Number: 1766-10-13; Activity: 3.8 milliCuries
ACTIONS: The rod has been securely stored and placed out of service until repairs or return can be accomplished by a licensed service provider. The Department has scheduled a reactive inspection. More information will be provided when available.
Pennsylvania Event: PA160024