Cnen confirms leak of radioactive material in building at USP

Cnen (National Nuclear Energy Commission) confirms, this Thursday (11), the leak of radiological material at the headquarters of Ipen (Institute for Energy and Nuclear Research),

based at USP (University of São Paulo). The incident happened on May 29th.

According to the federal authority, traces of radioactive particles of technetium-99 were detected during the removal of 'biological sensors' during the handling of the production of inputs for radiotherapy.

The leak was alerted by Sindsef-SP (Federal Public Service Workers Union in the State of São Paulo) and the Civil Servants Association.

According to Cnen, at least two 'Occupationally Exposed Individuals' were confirmed.

"The incident involved two workers, who were subjected to tests. The detected counts were low and demonstrated that there was no internal contamination. The contamination was restricted to the controlled area, at the Institute's Radiopharmacy Center", explains the agency.

Also during the positioning, Cnen claims that an 'Internal Occurrence Report' was opened to request action from the ANSN (National Nuclear Security Authority), which reported that it was investigating the case: "ANSN adopts a regular technical verification procedure, requesting the installation to provide the records and information necessary for the adequate assessment of the reported situation."

According to a note released by the class entities responsible for publicizing the case, preliminary information indicates that the situation would have required emergency radiological decontamination procedures, retention of clothing used by workers, including outsourced workers, and action by the Radiological Protection team.

Ipen Radiopharmacy has current operating authorization and a technical notification was issued with a deadline of June 18 to meet regulatory requirements, according to ANSN.

READ ALSO: Fire hits the Ipen reactor control room in SP

The supervisory body stated that this type of procedure is part of regular technical supervision activities and highlighted that any additional measures will depend on the analysis of documents and information presented by the institute.

CNN Brasil contacted USP (University of São Paulo) and SSP (São Paulo Public Security Secretariat), but received no response. The space remains open.

Fire at Ipen
A fire broke out at the Ipen nuclear reactor complex in March this year. The case was investigated by ANSN, which sent inspectors to the site to assess the damage and possible risks.

It was confirmed that the fire was localized in nature and affected a set of racks in the installation. The flames affected the cabling under the floor and reached the ceiling at a specific point in the room. A nearby chair was also caught in the fire.

*With information from Robson Rodrigues

Source: CNN