radiography - a blast from the past

[William V Lipton <liptonw@DTEENERGY.COM>]

I recommend that Radsafers read the NRC PNO-III-02-019, published on May

1, 2002, subject:  "Possible Radiation Injury to Radiography."  This is

available from the ADAMS section of the NRC web site.



The incident occurred in June, 2000, but was not reported until January

2000.   A radiographer working with an 81.2 Ci, Ir-192 source changed

the film with the source still in the guide tube.  He didn't notice this

until he unhooked the guide tube, since his alarming rate meter was

inoperable due to a low battery, and he did not look at his survey

meter.  Upon discovering the source still out, he noticed that his

survey meter and pocket dosimeter were off scale.  He did not inform his

supervision.  Approximately 2 weeks later, he developed skin rednesson

his left calf.  Over the next year, the wound became ulcerated and would

not heal.  A physician examining the wound diagnosed a potential

radiation injury.  The licensee became aware of this, in January 2002,

and reported it to the Agreement State licensing authority.



Same question:  When is the NRC going to take this seriously?



The opinions expressed are strictly mine.

It's not about dose, it's about trust.

Curies forever.



Bill Lipton

liptonw@dteenergy.com





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