Transporting radioactive material

To be used, radioactive material must first be transported---from its source to processing and manufacturing facilities, to users, and, eventually, to storage and disposal sites. These materials are shipped as solids, liquids, or gases and vary widely in their radioactive nature. Over 3 million packages of radioactive material are shipped each year in the United States. These shipments are carried by government or commercial conveyances such as trucks, trains, ships, and airplanes. Radioactive material is transported on our highways, waterways, railroads, and by air, just like other commodities. Radioactive material can be safely shipped in everyday commerce. Proper packaging is the key. Strict compliance with stringent regulations is required in the packaging of radioactive material to ensure that the public and the environment are protected even in case of a severe accident. There have been no deaths or even any serious injuries resulting from the radioactive nature of the cargo shipped. To extend that exemplary safety record, strict enforcement of US Department of Transportation regulations and research continue. The regulations are reviewed routinely to ensure the protection of public health and safety. People are understandably concerned about how a shipment of radioactive material might affect them, their families, and their environment. This booklet briefly answers commonly asked questions about the transport of radioactive material to put these concerns in perspective. More detailed information is available from many sources. Some of these sources are listed at the end of this booklet