Why 800 Police Searched For A Small 'NUT BOLT' For 7 Days (DANGEROUS TWIST) #shorts
334,362In January 2023, a significant safety incident unfolded in Western Australia when a tiny radioactive capsule containing caesium-137 was lost during transportation. The capsule, measuring just 8mm by 6mm, was part of a density gauge used at Rio Tinto's Gudai-Darri iron ore mine in the Pilbara region. It was being transported to a storage facility in Perth, approximately 1,400 kilometers away.
The loss occurred between January 10 and 16, but it wasn't until January 25 that the capsule's absence was discovered during an inspection in Perth. Investigations suggested that vibrations during the journey may have loosened a bolt, allowing the capsule to fall through a gap in the container. Authorities were alerted, and a public health warning was issued on January 27, advising people to stay at least five meters away if they encountered the capsule, due to the risk of radiation burns and sickness.
A massive search operation ensued, involving over 100 personnel from various agencies, including the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency, and the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation. Specialized radiation detection equipment was deployed along the Great Northern Highway, covering the extensive route the capsule had traveled.
On February 1, the capsule was located approximately 74 kilometers south of Newman, about two meters from the side of the road. It was detected by a search vehicle equipped with radiation detection technology. Authorities confirmed that the capsule had not moved and that no injuries had been reported during the time it was missing.
The incident prompted discussions about the adequacy of penalties for mishandling radioactive materials. At the time, the maximum fine under Western Australia's Radiation Safety Act was considered insufficient by many, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. In response, the state government initiated a review of the regulations to ensure stricter safety measures and penalties.
Rio Tinto, the mining company responsible for the capsule, issued an apology and committed to covering the costs associated with the search. They also pledged to review and improve their safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This event highlighted the challenges of safely transporting hazardous materials over long distances and underscored the importance of stringent safety measures and prompt response strategies in such situations.
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