A resources multinational did not break the law when toxic material was misplaced in transit.
Authorities recently cleared Rio Tinto of wrongdoing when a tiny radioactive capsule fell while being relocated, between the Koodaideri iron ore mine and a Malaga transport depot, between 10 and 16 January 2023.
A six day multi-agency search effort located the object, measuring 8mm tall and 6mm wide, about 2 metres off the side of the Great Northern Highway at Newman – almost 1200km north of Perth.
The Western Australian Radiological Council did not find the proponent had breached the state’s Radiation Safety Act.
“The council continues to consider issues stemming from the investigation for consideration to provide input into updates of national safety standards,” a spokesperson said according to News Limited.
Rio welcomed the finding and promised to take steps to ensure toxic material does not fall off trucks again.
“Our own internal review has identified opportunities for improvement in the selection of radiation gauges and the way they are packaged and transported,” a spokesperson said according to the media outlet.
The Act can impose a maximum $1000 penalty per offence.
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