Bulletin 80-22: Automation Industries, Model 200-520-008 Sealed-Source Connectors
SSINS No: 6820
Accession No.:
8006190050
IEB 80-22
UNITED STATES
NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION
OFFICE OF INSPECTION AND ENFORCEMENT
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20555
September 11, 1980
IE Bulletin No. 80-22: AUTOMATION INDUSTRIES, MODEL 200-520-008
SEALED-SOURCE CONNECTORS
Description of Circumstances:
An accident recently occurred in the State of California (an Agreement
State) that resulted in several serious overexposures (see enclosed Circular
79-16). The accident involved the use of an Automation Industries (AI) Model
200-520-008 source pigtail to drive cable connection. The connector is
identified by the manufacturer as its "quick disconnect" type of connector
and is used with several models of cobalt-60 and iridium-192 source
assemblies distributed by the manufacturer. The connection is a simple hook
and eye connection (see Fig. 1) that will permit separation of the eye from
the hook when they are oriented at right angles to each other without any
further positive action. As a result of the design, a disconnection may
occur any time the source assembly is cranked out of the exposure device
without the guide tube being attached. Since the Automation Industries Model
200-520-008 sealed-source assembly is authorized to contain up to 120 curies
of iridium-192, a source disconnection creates a potential for a serious
exposure.
A disconnect is very unlikely to occur if proper procedures are followed by
users of Automation Industries sealed sources containing the "quick
disconnect". However, due to the large number of overexposures that occur in
the radiography industry due to the failure to follow proper procedures, the
NRC has determined that continued use of the Automation Industries "quick
disconnect" connector with its Model 200-520-008 sealed-source assembly or
other assemblies can constitute a hazard to the public health, safety or
interest.
As a result, the NRC has ordered Automation Industries to discontinue
distribution of the AI Model 200-520-008 sealed-source assembly or any other
sealed-source assembly that uses the "quick disconnect" type of connector.
Additionally, the NRC will not accept new applications for authorization to
use the AI Model 200-520-008 or other sealed-source assemblies using the
"quick disconnect". In effect, this will remove such iridium-192 source and
pigtail assemblies from service as licensees exchange their diminished
activity sources. Special arrangements should be made for removing from
service, those connectors that are attached to longer lived sources such as
cobalt-60.
The removal from service of the "quick disconnect" type of connector will
require that those drive cables having the matching open hook connector be
modified.
Actions To Be Taken by Licensees
To assure the safe operation of radiography equipment in which the AI "quick
disconnect" connector is used, all licensees authorized to use byproduct
materials under 10 CFR Part 34 shall perform the following:
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IEB 80-22
September 11,1980
Page 2 of 2
(1) Determine the number of AI Model 200-520-008 and other assemblies in
your inventory that have the "quick disconnect" connector and establish
a disposal schedule. Your schedule for iridium-192 sources should be no
longer than your usual exchange schedule for diminished activity
sources. Your exchange schedule for connector modification for
cobalt-60 sources should be accomplished as soon as is conveniently
possible. However, you should complete your disposal or modification by
September 1, 1981.
(2) In the interim, a warning mark or tag should be placed on each
radiographic device in which AI "quick disconnect" type assemblies are
being used.
(3) This matter should be reviewed with all radiographers. They should be
cautioned of the disconnect possibility and be informed of the method
used to identify equipment as marked in accordance with Item (2) above.
(4) Review and modify operating, maintenance, inspection and handling
procedures as appropriate to preclude this type of accidental
disconnect.
NOTE: You may want to contact the manufacturer for assistance in
determining appropriate procedural changes or fixes to
preclude a disconnect.
(5) Discuss with the radiographers the importance of making adequate
surveys and the need for following procedures.
A report of your actions for each of the above numbered items shall be
submitted to the director of the appropriate regional office within 30 days
from the date of this Bulletin. A copy of the report shall also be sent to
the Director, Division of Fuel Facility and Materials Safety Inspection,
Office of Inspection and Enforcement, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission,
Washington, D.C. 20555.
Approved by GAO, B180225 (ROO72); approval expired July 31, 1980.
(Application for renewal pending before GAO). Approval was given under a
blanket clearance specifically for identified generic problems.
Enclosures:
1. IE Circular No. 79-16
2. Figure 1
Page Last Reviewed/Updated Tuesday, March 09, 2021