NC Issues Alert After Device With Radioactive Component Stolen

NORTH CAROLINA — North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services issued an alert Thursday afternoon after a measuring tool with radioactive components was reported stolen.

While the device poses no immediate health or safety threat, it could potentially if it is broken open or mishandled, state officials said.

"The gauge, which uses radioactive materials to test conditions of materials during construction, was discovered to be missing on May 6, 2021, and the theft was reported to the NC Radiation Protection Section and local law enforcement," DHHS said.

The state health agency said the device, manufactured by Troxler, was in a Type A container marked as containing radioactive material at the time it was taken.

"A description of the radioactive material appears on a plate attached to the exterior of the gauge. Each source of radioactive material is sealed in a stainless-steel capsule," DHHS said.

DHHS described the device has identifiable by its yellow case and a stainless-steel handle protruding from its top. It also has labels that say:

• Radiation tri-foil (Radioactive – 7)
• USA DOT 7A
• Type A Radioactive Material
• Cargo Aircraft Only

DHHS said that should anyone find the device, they should not touch or move it.

"Maintain at least 10 feet of distance from the gauge until the appropriate authorities secure the area and device," DHHS said. "A prolonged exposure could cause adverse health effects if the radioactive sources were directly exposed to an individual."

DHHS said anyone with information about the device's location is asked to call Travis Cartoski, NC Radiation Protection Section, at (919) 621-4797 or your local law enforcement agency at 911.