The government has issued a new directive targeting users of smoke detectors and X-Ray for scanning baggage across the country.
Mandated to provide protection of persons, property and the environment against harmful effects of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority has called for caution from users of such machinery and items.
In a notice on Tuesday, July 30, the authority has directed that all decommissioned or unused smoke detectors be disposed rightfully.
Further, the statement explained that the detectors should be taken to a licensed radioactive waste facility.
In addition, the stated has explained that smoke detectors contain radioactive material and have radioactive symbol on the detector.
“Among uses of radioactive materials is in ionization smoke detectors essential for detecting fires and triggering alarms. These contain radioactive material and have radioactive symbol on the detector,” the statement read in part.
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Warning on X Ray Baggage Scanners
At the same time, the authority addressed all facilities using X-ray for scanning baggage noting that it also contained radioactive material.
Therefore, such facilities have been ordered to register with the authority not later than July 31, 2024.
“Licence application submittals should be done through E-citizen by logging into knra.ecitizen.go.ke
“Also note that enforcement action(s) may be instituted for non-compliance without further notification. Application(s) should be submitted not later than 31st July 2024,” added the authority.
Also, radiation workers, radiation safety officers and radiation facilities have been asked to submit new or renew applications for licenses for the period July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.
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Threats of X-Ray Machines Causing Cancer
In December 2023, the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) warned that the use of uninspected X-ray scanners and walk-through metal detectors could pose cancer risks by exposing users to prolonged ionizing carcinogenic radiation.
Additionally, the regulator said that such radiation has the potential of damaging living tissues and causing cancer.
The statement also indicated that the risk is even higher on private security officers who work in 12-hour shifts while operating the x-ray powered security equipment.
“Even minimal x-ray radiation exposure, if consistent, can have health implications over time,” the statement read in part.
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