DPS, in collaboration with local, state and federal agencies, safely removed the toxic metal.
MIDLAND, Texas — The Texas Department of Safety’s Radiological/Nuclear Threat Detection Unit conducted a recovery operation over the weekend to remove a radioactive source from Midland County
A DPS Corporal was conducting a routine patrol Friday when they detected radiation near S County Road 1210. The source was identified as a 100-millicurie sealed container of Cesium-137, manufactured in April 1967.
“Continuous radiological monitoring was conducted throughout the operation, and designated hot and cold zones were established to ensure the safety of all personnel,” read a statement published to the DPS website. “Radiation exposure levels were closely monitored, and personnel rotations were conducted in accordance with established safety protocols.”
The container was buried about 6 to 8 inches below the surface. Once the material was secured, Texas DPS confirmed that no contamination occurred and the area is not a threat to the public.