Co-60 Contaminated Stainless Steel in Germany - Experiences and First Steps

Facts & Numbers: • According to German Radiation Protection Ordinance: - Co-60 clearance level for unconditional clearance: 0,1 Bq/g; - Co-60 exemption levels: 100 kBq & 10 Bq/g; • 80-90% of material are below exemption level (10 Bq/g) but above clearance level (0,1Bq/g); • Level of contamination found by January up to 600 Bq/g; • More than 150 tons of material secured; • Raw- and end products concerned. Economic Implications: • Metalworking companies report up to 50% decline in sales due to production outage as result of lack of material; • Import companies expect high cost for disposal and cost for storage of material until final decision is made; • Damage of companies reputation; • Loss of confidence