Source container FQG61, FQG62
Hauser
51
What to do in an emergency
Emergency action
In the interests of protecting personnel, the emergency procedure described here must be put into
effect immediately to secure an area where an exposed radiation source is known, or suspected, to
exist.
An emergency exists if a radioisotope has escaped from the source container or if the source holder
cannot be set to the "OFF" position. The procedure is designed to safeguard persons affected until the
competent radiation safety officer can attend the site and advise on corrective action. The custodian
of the radioactive source (i.e. the customer's designated "authorized person") is responsible for
observing this procedure.
1. Determine the unsafe area by on-site measurement
2. Cordon off the affected area with yellow tape or rope and post international radiation warning
signs.
The source container cannot be switched to the "AUS - OFF" position
In this case, the source container must be unbolted from its mounting position. Point the radiation
emission channel towards a thick wall (e.g. steel or lead) or mount a blind flange in front of the
emission channel. Individuals should at all times be behind the source container, not in front of the
radiation emission channel (flange of FQG61/FQG62). The lifting eye on the housing facilitates safe
handling.
The radiation source has escaped from the source container
In this case, the radiation source must be kept secure in another location or additional screening
must be provided. The radiation source should only be handled using tongs or a gripper and held as
far away from the body as possible. The time needed for the transport should be estimated and
minimized by rehearsing without a radiation source prior to execution.
Notifying the competent
authority
1. Pass on all the necessary information to the responsible local and national authorities
immediately.
2. After a thorough assessment of the situation, the competent radiation safety officer must
agree, together with the local authorities, on appropriate corrective measures for the problem.
National regulations may require other procedures and reporting obligations