On March 11, a smoldering fire broke out in a debris pile from the Chemical Holes excavation, located in an open area in the southeastern portion of BNL. The debris consisted primarily of soil, with small amounts of metal, glass, and wood. Investigators determined that the fire was caused by spontaneous combustion of some straw mixed with the soil and debris. This can sometimes occur as a result of bacterial action.
The fire consumed much of the packaging, but affected little of the waste. Airborne and surface measurements of radiation levels were taken during and after the fire because the soils in this pile contained very low levels of radioactivity. These measurements all showed normal background levels. Follow-up surveys also indicated normal background levels.
The fire investigation is complete; a further investigation is being
conducted to identify root causes to prevent a similar occurrence. The Laboratory
is dedicated to continued improvement in performance through this type of
self-evaluation and corrective action. BNL employees, local civic leaders,
and state and local agencies were immediately notified about the fire and
will continue to be updated.