Recently, contaminated cooking pots were discovered by radioactivity monitors as they were brought aboard a U.S. Navy nuclear ship. The pots were disposed of. Unfortunately most of us don't have the means to detect such contamination.
In addition to cooking utensils, recycled metal is commonly used in many products, including automobiles, bed frames, chairs, baby strollers, cribs and playpens, silverware, jewelry, IUD's and dental fillings. Radioactivity, even in low levels, is harmful, particularly when it is ingested or is in contact with the skin. Children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of radiation.
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Agency and Department of Energy now want to release saturated metal into the recycled metal supply. Saturated metal is contaminated throughout, and cannot be scrubbed or otherwise decontaminated. By releasing this "hot" metal to be recycled, the agencies are able to get rid of the stuff and release themselves from accountability for cleanup, or for any consequences. The rest of us will be exposed to exponentially increased levels of radioactive contamination.
Public comment is August, September and October, 1999. Contact the following:
Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Washington DC 20555(301) 415-7000
e-mail: nrc.gov/
Senator Barbara Boxer
Hart Bldg #112
Washington DC 20510
(202) 224-3553
(202) 228-4056 fax
Department of Energy
1000 Independence Ave. S.W.
Washington DC 20585(202) 586-5000
e-mail: doe.gov/
Senator Diane Feinstein
Hart Bldg #331
Washington DC 20510
(202) 224-3841
(202) 228-3954 fax
Representative Mike Thompson
Cannon Bldg #415
Washington DC 20515
(202) 225-3311
(202) 225-4335 fax
Copyright Mendocino Environmental Center 1999
Permission granted to excerpt or use this article if source is cited