Frantic search for radioactive capsule lost on truck bound for Perth

A tiny radioactive capsule with the potential to cause skin burns has gone missing while being hauled out of a western Australian mine.

Hazmat experts are searching for the 8mm x 6mm capsule that is believed to have fallen off a truck while en route from the Pilbara to Perth.

Authorities are looking for the capsule, which “emits a reasonable amount of radiation.”

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“It’s about getting 10 X-rays in an hour,” said a health spokesman, adding that more serious health conditions, including cancer, could result from prolonged exposure.

The capsule is said to have fallen off a truck during a 1400 km journey after vibration loosened a bolt and the capsule fell through the bolt hole.

Emergency services were notified of the missing capsule on Wednesday.