Headquarters Daily Report
JULY 27, 2000
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REPORT NEGATIVE NO INPUT
ATTACHED INPUT RECEIVED RECEIVED
HEADQUARTERS X
REGION I X
REGION II X
REGION III X
REGION IV X
PRIORITY ATTENTION REQUIRED MORNING REPORT - REGION I JULY 27, 2000
Licensee/Facility: Notification:
MR Number: 1-00-0010
Evergreen Radiology Associate, P.A. Date: 07/24/00
Totowa,New Jersey
Dockets: 03032352 License No: 29-02023-06
Subject: CREMATION OF A BODY WITH A RADIOACTIVE IMPLANT
Discussion:
On July 24, 2000, the RSO at Evergreen Radiology, Totowa, NJ, informed
the NRC Region I office that a patient that was implanted iodine-125
seeds on July 17, 2000, expired on July 23, 2000. The estimated activity
was 9.8 millicuries. The licensee stated that the family had refused an
autopsy and there was no regulatory basis that required the iodine-125
seeds to be removed from the body. However, the licensee informed the
funeral home in writing that the body contained radioactive seeds and to
use precautions in handling and cremating the body. Additionally, the
licensee planned to perform area surveys following the cremation.
On July 25, 2000, the licensee informed the NRC Region I that the body
was cremated as planned. The licensee performed radiological surveys of
the affected areas and the surveys did not indicate any radiation levels
above the natural background level. Radiation level of 2 mR/hour was
measured in contact with the plastic bag that contained the body remains
(ashes). These levels were reduced to background level when the plastic
bag was placed in a metal urn.
Regional Action:
No further action is required by the Region.
Contact: Neelam Bhalla (610)337-5188
Mohamed Shanbaky (610)337-5209
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