Hungary source of elevated radioactive iodine levels in Finland
The Finnish radiation safety watchdog, STUK, says an isotope manufacturer in Budapest is the source of small amounts of radioactive iodine (I-131) found in outdoor air samples in Finland last month.
Amounts measured one millionth becquerel per cubic meter of air, which means levels were so low that they posed no threat to public health. The lab that leaked iodine-131 produces radioisotopes for healthcare, research and industrial use.
STUK has been in contact with the Hungarian Atomic Energy Authority, which said precautions are being taken to prevent future emissions.
I-131 was also detected in Sweden, Norway, Germany, Austria and Poland.
STUK monitors airborne radioactive substances at eight locations in Finland and says it can detect even small changes in radioactivity.
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