ALERT: Missing radioactive package

[/I=R/S=CAWTHORN/O=AECB.CCEA@mhs-atomcon.attmail.com]

        The Atomic Energy Control Board (AECB) was advised on November 
        6, 1995 that a Type A radioactive material package being 
        transported enroute from Pearson International Airport Toronto, 
        Canada to United Kingdom was missing.  The missing radioactive 
        material package contains 426 GBq (11.5 Ci) of Iodine-125 in the 
        form of liquid sodium iodide (NaI).  I-125 is a low energy gamma 
        emitter with a 60 day half-life.  Although the long half-life 
        will prevent any significant decrease in radioactivity over the 
        next couple weeks, the package shielding will prevent external 
        radiation from the package from being a concern.
        
        This package is very dangerous if damaged or opened.  NaI is very 
        volatile and instantly liberates radioactive gas when exposed to 
        air.  When inhaled or in contact with the skin, the I-125 is 
        immediately absorbed by the person's body and is concentrated in 
        the thyroid gland.  Significant absorbed amounts will damage the 
        person's thyroid gland.
        
        If the package is damaged or opened, the area should immediately 
        be evacuated and potentially exposed persons given oral 
        potassium iodide (KI) or have tincture of iodine applied to the 
        skin.  
        
        According to supplied information, the package left the  
        consignor, McMaster University by way of Topp Customs Services 
        and was put on Air Canada Flight 868 on October 26 in container 
        Number ALN 0584. The air waybill number is 01480193746.   The 
        package was expected to arrive at Heathrow International Airport 
         and Amersham International before November 1, 1995.
        
        Any information about the shipment or clues to the whereabouts 
        of the missing package should be forwarded promptly to the 
        proper authorities, the police, CANTEC, the AECB, McMaster 
        University or Amersham International Inc.
        
          AECB          613-947-2054 (normal working hours)
                        613-995-0479 (duty officer - 24 hours) 
                        613-995-5086 (facsimile)
          CANUTEC       613-996-6666 (24 hour) 
          McMaster      905-528-4339 
        
        
        Marisa Devine
        Licensing and Transportation Section
        Transport Officer