WTF! Radioactive Material Reported Missing In NC

[Lex]

http://www.wral.com/news/5052424/detail.html

Gauges Containing Radioactive Material Reported Missing In N.C.

RALEIGH, N.C. -- Two gauges that use radioactive material to test construction materials were discovered missing Monday from a temporary job site in Wake Forest, state officials said.

The devices, if handled improperly, can pose a potential health and safety risk, officials with the N.C. Radiation Protection Section said in a news release.

The gauges were discovered missing Monday morning from a Transportation Department job site near N.C. Highway 98. The gauges use radioactive material to test the density, moisture and condition of materials during construction.

The sources of radioactive material are eight millicuries of Cesium 137 and 40 millicuries of Americium 241 that are sealed in stainless steel capsules.

They pose a health or safety threat only if mishandled or broken open.