Radioactive Materials Incidents and Spills
Radioactive Incident and Spill Procedure
If you experience a spill involving radioactive materials, follow these steps immediately:
- Stay in the area: Do not leave the spill site.
- Call Radiation Safety: Contact Purdue’s Radiation Safety Team at 765-494-6371.
- If the spill occurs after hours, call the Purdue Public Safety Dispatch Center at 765-494-8221.
- Alert others nearby: Notify everyone in the vicinity of the spill to ensure their safety.
- Check yourself for contamination: Use a radiation survey meter or wipe test to assess any contamination on your skin or clothing.
- Restrict access: Prevent others from inadvertently spreading contamination by keeping the area contained.
Support from Purdue’s Radiation Safety Team
Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) is here to assist with radioactive material spills. There are no penalties for reporting a spill — your safety is our top priority. Reporting ensures a quick and effective response, and it will not impact your job, academic appointment or research permit.
Cleaning Up a Spill
- If the spill is contained (e.g., in a spill tray or fume hood), you may clean it up if you feel comfortable. Purdue’s Radiation Safety team can provide guidance if needed.
- If the spill extends beyond a contained area (on the floor, clothing or skin), you must call Radiation Safety immediately.
Preventing Contamination Spread
- Secure the area: Ensure no one leaves the lab until they have been surveyed and cleared.
- Handle contaminated clothing properly: Remove and bag any affected lab coats, clothing or shoes, labeling them appropriately.
- Decontaminate skin safely: If radioactive material is on your skin, wash the area with warm water and mild soap — do not scrub aggressively.
- Confirm decontamination: Survey the cleaned area to verify all radioactive material has been removed.
For further guidance, visit Purdue’s Radiation Safety Manual or contact EHS for assistance.