A Flaw Detector with Radioactive Selenium Disappeared in Krakow

On the night of March 21-22, a flaw detector containing a highly radioactive selenium radiation source 75Se with activity of 380 GBq disappeared in the Nova Guta district of Krakow. This was reported by a company that performs road construction works.

The device is used for radiographic studies. It weighs 6-8 kg, is approximately 30 cm long, 20 cm wide and 15 cm high.

Measures to search for a radiation source include interviewing witnesses, providing video surveillance, or conducting operational activities on the ground. Police are using drones to speed up the search. In addition, scrap metal collection points and homeless places were checked. In addition to the police, the regional administration and the National Fire Service were involved in the search for the flaw detector.

The Polish Atomic Energy Agency warns people not to open or cut the device, as even short-term contact with an unprotected radiation source inside can pose a threat to human health and life. 

If a device is found, the place of discovery should be protected from unauthorized access and the police, the Regional Crisis Management Center in Krakow or the Radiation Incident Center of the State Atomic Energy Agency should be immediately notified. A citizen who finds the device or helps to identify its location will be rewarded with a cash prize of PLN 5,000. It will be paid by the company that carried out the road works.

According to the State Atomic Energy Agency of Poland and the Office of the Lesser Poland Voivodeship