Re: Smoke Detector

[Ralph Lieto <rlieto@gatecoms.gatecom.com>]

George Xu wrote:
> 
> Hi, Radsaferes,
> 
> What is the NRC/state regulations or current practice involving used smoke
> detectors?  Any information would be appreciated.
> 
> George Xu
> Email: xug2@rpi.eduGeorge,

Wes Dunn's response is correct. I know from personal experience.  Our 
hospital replace dozens of radioactive smoke detectors about three yrs. 
ago. I tried to contact the vendor to ship them back but couldn't find 
them. I contacted the NRC in our region and the vendor's region. They 
both said the same thing.  The analysis and approval was based on 
the fact that the detectors would be disposed into landfills. The NRC 
encourages return to vendor, but they know that the devices are exempt 
and can be disposed into general waste.  We threw them in our general 
waste.  As an aside, make sure they go to landfill not incinerator.

Ralph Lieto
Henry Ford Hospital
rlieto@gatecom.com