Texas officials said that while there are multiple layers of radioactive protection and the radiation levels outside the camera are not dangerous, the camera still needs to be handled with care.
An X-ray camera containing radioactive material goes missing in Houston. (Photo: Texas State Department of Health).
The Texas Department of Health says Federal Maintenance employees reported a radioactive X-ray camera disappeared north of downtown Houston, the New York Times reported. March 12th.
“The radioactive material is sealed in a capsule, placed in a camera with a protective shield and other layers of safety,” NBC quoted the health agency’s announcement on March 11.
The 24kg camera is owned by Statewide Maintenance. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, this device is often used to take X-rays in the construction industry, helping to detect cracks that are invisible to the naked eye.
Lara Anton, a spokeswoman for the Texas State Department of Health, said the camera, which cost ,000 to ,000, disappeared when employees returned to work from a fast-food restaurant a few miles from downtown. Houston about a mile to the north.
The company is working with local law enforcement to locate the camera. The company also offers a ,000 reward to those who find the device.
Ms Anton said anyone who found the camera should not try to open it, but should call emergency services or health authorities for safe handling.
“If someone tries to open it and comes in contact with radioactive material, that’s pretty dangerous,” she said.