On May 29, 2005, a licensee notified the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) that one of their radiographic devices containing a sealed source of approximately 1.63 terabecquerels (44 Ci) of iridium-192 fell into the ocean. The event occurred during a transfer of the device from an offshore oil rig to a boat. The licensee stated that they intended to send a team of divers to try and retrieve the device.
On June 6, 2005, the licensee notified the NRC that on June 3 and June 4, 2005, divers twice attempted to retrieve the device and were unsuccessful. Based on the location of the device, approximately 15 miles offshore and about 100 feet below the surface of the water, the licensee has concluded, and the NRC agrees, that it is appropriate to characterize this source as non-retrievable.
Due to the relatively short half life of iridium-192 (approx. 74 days), and the aforementioned activities, the NRC does not deem it necessary to make further attempts to retrieve the device.
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