Oklahoma cleared: NNSA removes all cesium-137 irradiators in the state, achieving a milestone in reducing radiological risk

WASHINGTON -In a significant advancement for national security, the U.S. Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) has removed all cesium-137 irradiators from the state of Oklahoma. This achievement marks a critical step in NNSA's mission to eliminate radiological risks across the United States and keep American communities safe.

Used for medical applications such as blood treatment and cancer research, irradiators are a critical part of America's infrastructure. However, many of these irradiators contain cesium-137, a radioactive material that poses a serious risk if it is stolen and used to produce a radiological dispersal device, also known as a "dirty bomb."

"Clearing states of these irradiators showcases NNSA's commitment to making U.S. communities safer and more secure," said Matthew Napoli, NNSA Deputy Administrator for Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation. "With Oklahoma now added to the growing list of states cleared of cesium irradiators, NNSA proudly recognizes this milestone in enhancing national security."

Oklahoma is the 12th U.S. state or territory to be free of cesium irradiators, joining Alaska, Arizona, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Nevada, New Mexico, Puerto Rico, South Dakota, and Wyoming.