IAEA Press Release
IAEA Press Release 2002/05
IAEA Secures Radioactive Source in Uganda
Vienna, 5 April 2002 | In response to a request from the Government of Uganda, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations organization with competence in nuclear safety and security, has secured a radioactive source in Uganda. The radioactive source contained a significant amount of cobalt-60 and had been impounded by authorities following its discovery.
Following the discovery of a radioactive source, two IAEA radiation safety specialists were sent to Uganda this week to provide assistance. The IAEA team checked the integrity of the shielded container, measured the level of radiation, verified the security of the location and concluded that the source is currently safe and secure and does not pose any immediate threat to the public.
The IAEA team also assisted Ugandan authorities in their effort to ascertain whether other insecure sources might similarly be found in the country. No evidence of such sources was found.
About the IAEA
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) serves as the world's foremost intergovernmental forum for scientific and technical co-operation in the peaceful use of nuclear technology. Established as an autonomous organization under the United Nations (UN) in 1957, the IAEA carries out programmes to maximize the useful contribution of nuclear technology to society while verifying its peaceful use.
Press Contacts
Marc Vidricaire
Director and Spokesperson
Division of Public Information
[43-1] 2600-21270
m.vidricaire@iaea.org
Ayhan Evrensel
Acting Head, Media and Outreach Section
Division of Public Information
[43-1] 2600-21271
[43] 699-165-21271 (mobile)
a.evrensel@iaea.org
NOTE TO EDITORS: For additional information visit the IAEA's Press Section, or call the IAEA's Division of Public Information at (431) 2600-21270.