The Volcanic Institute that operates in Rishon Lezion stored about 25 radioactive wastes in its area for 10 to 15 years. The waste was not removed despite the risk and contrary to the law. The waste was discovered in an audit by the Ministry of Environmental Protection conducted in May of this year, and as a result the institute was required to dispose of the waste immediately. The evacuation should be held soon.
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In fact, the institute holds a “radioactive work permit” for various research purposes. According to the permit, after the end of use, the waste, for example from test tubes containing the materials, is thrown into designated barrels that are stored in what is supposed to be temporary storage only, in a designated warehouse. However, contrary to the procedures, it turns out that during a period estimated between ten and 15 years, dozens of barrels containing radioactive waste were accumulated.
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Despite the fact that the barrels were uncovered in May, the transfer of the barrels by an authorized carrier took many months. The institute stated: “Failure to bury these barrels poses a risk of an outbreak of contamination in the event of a fire. The evacuation should be carried out by Rotem Industries, the only company in Israel authorized to do so.”