The following information was received via E-mail:
MaineHealth Maine Medical Center reported a leaking Cs-137 source (Eckert & Ziegler Model RV-137-200U, Serial No.: 1490-24-6) that contained an estimated activity of 5.84 MBq (157.8 microCi). The incident was discovered during a semi-annual leak test performed on 10/19/2020. Leak test results revealed 950.9 Bq (0.0257 microCi). The Cs-137 contamination was contained in the drawer the source was stored in. The assumption was made that the source was still leaking and MaineHealth sealed it in its storage lead pig. The outer surface of the lead pig was cleaned and wiped, resulting in removable contamination of less than 200 dpm. The pig was placed in a plastic bag as an extra means of containment and the bag was sealed and labeled. All other items that were contaminated or potentially contaminated in the clean-up process were also placed in a plastic bag, sealed, and labeled. The drawer was cleaned and a final wipe test confirmed that removable contamination was below 200 dpm. The staff who used the source were notified that it was considered out of service and should not be handled or used. The source remained stored in the hot laboratory pending finalization of plans for repair or disposal.
Maine Event Report ID No.: ME 20-004