Most radioactive materials packages found at the SHC, SCH or VAPAHCS contain radioactive drugs or sealed sources. The radioactive drugs are given to patients for the detection and treatment of disease. Unopened packages of radioactive materials are safe to handle under normal conditions. Studies show that cargo handlers get very little radiation exposure from handling them. If a package is labeled as containing radioactive material appears damaged it must be promptly monitored for dose rate and contamination. Contact Health Physics immediately if any radioactive material package appears damaged (650-723-3201).

For those trained by Health Physics to receive radioactive packages, contact Health Physics immediately if any package survey shows Department of Transportation (DOT) limits have been exceeded. If certain thresholds are exceeded, Health Physics is required to promptly notify the carrier, the Department of Health Services and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

Contact Health Physics if any package labeled as containing radioactive material is left unattended in public areas (650-723-3201).