AFP
NOS News•
Authorities in western Australia have sounded the alarm for radioactive danger. They are looking for a silver tube containing the highly radioactive substance caesium-137. The tube is part of a measuring instrument for mining.
The meter was packed for transport to Perth on January 10. Two weeks later, during an inspection, it was discovered that the instrument was no longer complete. Presumably it broke off during transport and fell through a hole in the container.
Over a distance of 1200 kilometers, the search is on for the tube, which is comparable to a ride from Amsterdam to Toulouse. A disadvantage for the seekers: the radioactive tube is 8 millimeters by 6 millimeters in size.
Ten X-rays per hour
An Australian health organization indicates that there are no major health risks for the population, but warns not to get closer than five meters to the lost tube.
Exposure to it is equivalent to ten x-rays per hour. Then there is a risk of radiation sickness. Anyone who touches the tube may be burned or more seriously injured.
Motorists who have driven the 1,200-kilometer route are asked to check their tires on the tiny tube.
