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For the second time in less than a year, a package of radioactive material was
improperly received and was subsequently sent to a landfill. Because of the activity
involved, we had to report this lost package to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission
(NRC). We have already received a citation from the NRC this year for a similar
incident. As a result, we must ensure that corrective actions are put in place
across our entire licensed community to prevent another occurrence.
Please review the procedures that your department follows in regard to radioactive
materials purchases. Remind your staff and business office of the following:
- The purchase order MUST include the name and address (room number and building) of the radiation worker to whom the package is being shipped.
- The ship to address on the PO should be that of a licensed laboratory.
- Lab staff should plan to be in the lab to receive the package at the time that it is expected, remove the material from the package immediately, and store it in a secure location.
If you know or suspect loss of material, EHRS must be notified immediately. Self-identified problems with proper notifications will never result in any sanctions against the laboratory or the individual.
Currently we provide certain P-32 compounds at reduced price and increased flexibility to researchers. In order to serve you better, reduce your costs, and reduce our regulatory liability involving package receipt we
would like to expand the compounds in our radioactive material distribution program. We would appreciate your input. Please provide us with as much information as possible about the products that you use.
Please contact me at normoyle@ehrs.upenn.edu or 215-898-2134 if you would like more information.
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