(Washington, DC) – Undetected radioactive material can have severe consequences in a scrap yard. In an effort increase awareness around radiation safety, the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI), in collaboration with The Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors (CRCPD) and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS), today released an educational video to help recycling workers in identifying radioactive sources, isolating the material, and notifying the proper authorities.
“This video not only educates scrap workers on how to handle radioactive material in the event they come across it, but also serves as a reminder of the constant need to stay vigilant in examining the material entering a facility. This is an inherent part of building upon safety as a core value within the recycling industry,” said Robin Wiener, president of ISRI. “Partnering with CRCPD and IDHS only helps to raise awareness for worker safety both in and outside the industry.”
The message in the video provides a simple and easy way to remember how to properly handle potential sources of radiation. It also emphasizes the importance of staying prepared, planning, and training staff to react if ever needed.
“Knowing how to act and react if the alarm sounds is important in these situations,” said Ruth McBurney, CHP, CRCPD Executive Director. “We are here to help America’s recyclers to educate their employees and managers about the right way to respond to potential sources of radiation, and the CRCPD is pleased to share their technical expertise in developing this video”
ISRI also has other resources available for recycling professionals on the topic of radiation safety, including Radiation Awareness Flashcards. Recyclers with questions on radiation safety can contact ISRI’s safety team.
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The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, Inc. (ISRI) is the "Voice of the Recycling Industry™." ISRI represents 1,300 companies in 20 chapters in the U.S. and more than 40 countries that process, broker, and consume scrap commodities, including metals, paper, plastics, glass, rubber, electronics, and textiles. With headquarters in Washington, DC, the Institute provides education, advocacy, safety and compliance training, and promotes public awareness of the vital role recycling plays in the U.S. economy, global trade, the environment and sustainable development. Generating nearly $110 billion annually in U.S. economic activity, the scrap recycling industry provides more than 500 million Americans with good jobs.