Contamination of a soft-drink manufacturing plant by 210Po

An investigation was undertaken of the contamination of equipment and flooring by 210Po, released from a static eliminator source, at a soft-drink manufacturing plant. The detection and establishment of extent of contamination, development of decontamination and control procedures and difficulties in implementing those procedures are discussed. Additionally, the likely health effects to workers are assessed. The removal and disposal of contaminated equipment, the use of epoxy compound on the floor to seal fixed contamination and the implementation of a 5-y monitoring program are detailed. The estimated cost of decontamination is provided.