The radioactive material used in sealed sources is usually in the form of a powder (e.g., 137CsCl), and is made into a sealed source by doubly encapsulating the powder in stainless steel capsules. Even though these capsules must meet rigorous specifications, there is a small chance that physical damage to the capsules could allow the radioactive material to leak out of the ruptured capsules resulting in radiation exposure and contamination.
Therefore, radioactive sources need to be leak tested on a regular basis, at frequencies determined by the Directorate Radiation Control (SAHPRA).
This service is offered to all authority holders of sealed radioactive sources in South Africa.
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