2.4 Unusual Incidents Only one incident occurred on Eniwetok Atoll that presented a serious hazard from a radiological standpoint. This hazard arose from a plutonium spill that occurred in a trailer belonging to Project 2.51. A plutonium foil, prepared by LASL, split open at the crimping on the edge. When this foil was picked up for inspection, an estimated 100 mg of oxidized plutonium es- caped through the split in the seal. Project personnel continued to use the trailer after the accident, and as a result, the alpha contamination was spread to other trailers, personnel, and living quarters. Monitoring of personnel disclosed that 10 persons had been contaminated, Twenty-four-hour urine specimens were taken from the 10 after they had been . decontaminated and all showed measurable amounts of plutonium. However, - the amounts they received were well below tolerance limits. As a result of the spread of the plutonium one barracks room and four tents required decontamination. In addition, bedding and personal clothing were confiscated and disposed of. A thorough survey revealed that, fortu~ nately, none of the plutonium was carried to the mess hall. Trailers contaminated by the spill were eventually decontaminated, but serious equipment losses resulted. The trailer in which the spill occurred was completely stripped of equipment, the majority of which had to be dis- BO eee ee ee ek a carded. All plutonium-contaminated items were poured in concrete, then taken well out to sea for burial. - 28 +