DETECTING THE LOCATION OF MOBILE SOURCES LOST OR STOLEN DURING TRANSPORT

This paper describes a source control system for non-destructive gammagraphy devices that tracks and easily locates a device in the event of its theft during storage or transport; this system would also reduce the problems associated with orphan sources. During routine operations of storage and transport should a device be stolen from its store, a vehicle during transport or diverted from the route intended by the operator, these events significantly increase the radiation risks to those who steal the device, the public should the device be abandoned, and the potential of malevolent use. The system described in this paper would monitor and track the location of a device during storage and routine transport 24 hours each day. An RFID would be discretely located on the device and a transmitter located in the transport case of the device would confirm the presence of a device in its case. The vehicle used to transport the device would also be fitted with a transmitter enabling the location of the device and the vehicle to be constantly located including detection of the removal of the device from the vehicle. Immediate detection of unauthorised removal of the device from its store, vehicle or intended route would result in the immediate activation of recovery operations thereby reducing the potential risk of radiation exposure.