Small Fire at AECL’s Chalk River Laboratories

06-11

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 5, 2006

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) was informed by Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL) on Thursday, May 4, 2006, that a small fire had broken out in a laboratory at the Chalk River Laboratories site at approximately 1:30 p.m. The fire was quickly brought under control by AECL’s emergency and fire personnel.

CNSC site staff confirm that AECL followed all regulatory requirements in responding to and reporting this incident. There was no exposure to or release of radioactive materials as a result of the fire. CNSC staff will continue to monitor the situation and follow up as required to review any compliance issues.

The CNSC’s mission is to regulate the use of nuclear energy and materials to protect health, safety, security and the environment and to respect Canada’s international commitments on the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

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Contact:
Aurèle Gervais
Media and Community Relations
Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission
(613) 996-6860