Ashdod Port workers evacuated due to container emanating high levels of radiation

Environmental Protection Ministry officials stressed that the container posed no threat to people in the area.

By SHARON UDASIN
Updated: AUGUST 4, 2015 02:58
A general view shows the Israeli army navy port of Ashdod on May 31, 2010. (photo credit: MENAHEM KAHANA / AFP)
A general view shows the Israeli army navy port of Ashdod on May 31, 2010.
(photo credit: MENAHEM KAHANA / AFP)
Emergency teams identified radioactive material emanating from a shipping container at the Ashdod Port on Monday.
As a precaution, port workers were evacuated, enabling Fire and Rescue Services and hazardous materials teams to perform checks to classify the material, a statement from Fire and Rescue Service’s southern district said.
The container arrived on a Chinese ship, Channel 2 reported.
Environmental Protection Ministry officials stressed that there was no threat to the area.
“At the instruction of the Environmental Protection Ministry, the container was transferred to an insulated area at the Ashdod Port,” a statement from the ministry said. “There is no risk to the public.”
The Ashdod Port likewise emphasized that although emergency teams activated hazardous materials procedures, the facility continued to function as normal.