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NOTE: The radiation-containing gauge was recovered on Nov. 17, 2003 November 6, 2003Contact: Bonnie Widerburg (503) 731-4180 Technical contact: Terry Lindsey (503) 731-4014, ext 660 Stolen radiation-containing device still missing; company offers reward A radiation-containing gauge stolen earlier this week has still not been found, public health officials at the Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) said Thursday. As an incentive for its safe return, Geo Pacific Engineering, Inc., the company that owns the gauge, is offering a $1,000 reward for its safe recovery. "We take the loss of this gauge very seriously," said Terry Lindsey, radiation protection manager in DHS. "It’s an issue of accountability and an issue of safety. We’re concerned that anyone who may find this device and tries to open its locking mechanism could be exposed to dangerous levels of radiation." The missing equipment is a bright yellow Troxler Model 3440 nuclear gauge, Serial Number 34418, that is carried in a bright yellow heavy plastic box marked with radiation labels. The gauge has two radiation sources, both of which are contained inside a lead shield. Anyone having information concerning location and recovery of this gauge should call the Tualatin Police Department at (503) 691-4800, and after hours at (503) 629-0111. As a result of this loss, DHS is requiring the company to take corrective action to prevent future losses, including refresher training for managers and all authorized users of this equipment and will be under an accelerated field and office inspection schedule, according to Lindsey. The gauge is used in road construction testing and when properly used by trained operators is very safe to use, Lindsey said. Photos and information on the gauge and transport container are on the Web at www.troxlerlabs.com/3440.html and www.troxlerlabs.com/wheels.html Anyone having further questions about the device may contact radiation protection staff in DHS at (503) 731-4014. |
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