Indonesia’s frozen shrimp exports were found to be contaminated with the radioactive substance Cesium-137, allegedly originating from the Modern Industrial Area in Cikande, Serang, Banten.
According to data from the Ministry of Health, 15 individuals have tested positive for exposure to the substance. The radiation source is believed to come from a metal smelting industry in the area.
Although most of the detected exposures remain at levels manageable through decontamination, specific medication, and long-term health monitoring, structured inspection and surveillance procedures are still being implemented.
Professor Gede Bayu Suparta, a professor of physics at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FMIPA UGM), explained that Cesium-137 is a form of nuclear radiation because it emits gamma rays.
Unlike X-ray radiation, which is relatively safer, this type of radiation is considered more hazardous as it involves radioactive material. Its radiation can persist for decades, with a half-life of about 30 years.
“If I were to take just a spoonful, it could spread everywhere, and its radiation would last for 30 years,” said Professor Suparta on Tuesday (Oct. 7).
Once exposure occurs, he noted, determining whether it poses danger depends on the inspection process. Since nuclear radiation is invisible, decontamination must be carried out to eliminate contamination. The process begins by identifying the radiation source using a survey meter.
“If there is a radiation source, the device will detect and signal it,” he explained.
To reduce radiation exposure, Professor Suparta emphasized the importance of locating the exact source of contamination.
In addition, Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) systems must be applied rigorously. If an object is found to contain radiation, authorities must decide whether to halt or continue operations in the affected area.
“This may lead to operational suspension, depending on the findings,” he stated.
Despite its dangers, Professor Suparta noted that radiation can be beneficial under controlled conditions.
However, certain types of radiation, such as Cesium-137, possess uncontrollable properties. Humans cannot easily detect whether a material is radioactive, especially if it originates from soil-based sources.
“Once we conduct an inspection, the contamination becomes apparent. If it is confirmed, we must remain vigilant. Therefore, caution is essential,” he concluded.
Author: Alena Damaris
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photograph: Antara