A “potentially dangerous” moisture density-gauge equipment containing radioactive materials was reported missing a month ago around the area of the MWSS Compound storage facility in Bigte, Norzagaray, Bulacan.
According to the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), a licensee reported the equipment missing to the Norzagaray municipal police station.
The moisture density gauge is fully shielded, and is safe as it is, the DOST-PNRI said in a news release.
“However, it is potentially dangerous because it contains radioactive materials that emit high levels of ionizing radiation. If found, the unit should not be opened or tampered with to avoid exposure to harmful radiation rays,” the DOST-PNRI warned.
The missing equipment is a Troxler 3440 moisture density gauge, which is used by the PNRI licensee, an industrial firm, for testing of soil, asphalt and concrete materials.
It weighs around 41 kilograms, which is contained in a transport orange-colored box measuring 30 by 14 by 17 inches.
Attached to the transport containment and on the equipment is the radiation symbol in yellow triangle with three fan-like black blades. If anybody sees the radiation symbol, he or she should keep away from the equipment.
Scrap metal dealers and buyers of used metal items are asked to be on alert for sellers of the equipment or its parts.
Medical practitioners are advised of the possibility that patients may appear with symptoms of radiation exposure, the DOST-PNRI added.
The DOST-PNRI is the agency mandated to license and regulate the use of radioactive materials in industry, medicine, academe, research and other applications.
The DOST-PNRI has notified the Philippine National Police and the Office of Civil Defense about the incident and has requested for assistance in the search and recovery of the missing equipment.
Those who may have seen, touched or have been near to the equipment should immediately report to the nearest police station, and contact the DOST-PNRI as soon as possible through: Teofilo V. Leonin Jr., chief, Nuclear Regulatory Division, DOST-PNRI, at telephone: 9208796, 9296011 local 244; mobile: (0915)-194-6085; and e-mail: tvleonin@pnri.dost.gov.ph.
Image credits: DOST-PNRI