NORTH PERRY, OH — A report from Vistra Corp., the parent company of the Perry Nuclear Power Plant, has revealed that at least 78 gallons of water containing radioactive contaminants were spilled at the facility throughout 2024. The spills, linked to handling errors with radiological waste containers, are raising concerns about environmental safety and the health risks associated with the plant's operations.
According to the report submitted to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), the contamination occurred when lids on containers holding radiological waste were mishandled, causing radioactive water to spill onto the ground. The company described the 78.5 gallons as a “conservative” estimate, leaving open the possibility that more water may have been spilled.
Toxic Chemicals and Associated Risks
The spilled water contained two radioactive substances: cobalt-60 and manganese-54.
- Cobalt-60: A radioactive isotope used in medical and industrial applications, cobalt-60 is a known carcinogen. Exposure to this substance, particularly over extended periods, increases the risk of developing cancer. Additionally, cobalt-60 emits gamma radiation, which can penetrate human tissue, posing further health risks.
- Manganese-54: Although considered “less toxic” than cobalt-60, manganese-54 can still have negative health effects and environmental impacts. Prolonged exposure to radioactive manganese can damage internal organs and disrupt biological processes.
The contamination has raised alarms about the potential for these substances to seep into the soil or water table, potentially affecting local ecosystems and nearby communities.
History of Safety Concerns
The spills come after a May 2024 incident at the Perry Nuclear Power Plant, where a reactor coolant system leak forced the facility to shut down for two days. The NRC reported that the shutdown occurred after the leak exceeded the allowable five gallons per minute threshold. While the plant resumed operations shortly afterward, the incident highlighted ongoing safety challenges at the site.
Broader Implications
The Perry Nuclear Power Plant’s recent issues underscore the potential risks of nuclear energy production, particularly at aging facilities. Both cobalt-60 and manganese-54 are hazardous materials that require careful containment to prevent environmental and health hazards. This latest report adds to the growing scrutiny of nuclear energy safety, with environmental groups and policymakers likely to push for stricter oversight and accountability.
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