Can Tho City leaders observed equipment at the drill.

In a hypothetical situation at the Can Tho City Oncology Hospital, a fire broke out in the Hospital’s Hotlab Room where radioactive drugs I-131 and Tc-99m are stored. The fire, which contained an area of about 10m², did not spread to other buildings. It produced black smoke reaching a height of 10-15m from the ground. The fire damaged the Hotlab Room structure, broke objects, and caused injuries to several employees. Two people sustained minor injuries with signs of external radioactive contamination. The fire resulted in radioactive contamination in some areas of the Hotlab Room, prompting the need for decontamination. Recognizing the situation as beyond their capacity, the hospital director promptly requested emergency assistance from Can Tho Municipal Department of Health, Can Tho Municipal Department of Science and Technology, and relevant agencies.

Medical staff moved the injured and patients to a safe area.

The incident response process was implemented quickly, urgently, and following procedures. The drill ensured the safety of the life, health, and property of individuals, related organizations, and forces directly participating in the Radiation and Nuclear Incident Response Drill without affecting or disrupting the production activities of the unit and households in the area surrounding the drill location. The members and participating units understood their roles and performed their assigned tasks correctly.

Firefighting on-site drill

The field commanders met to discuss the plan.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the drill, Vice Chairman of Can Tho City People's Committee Nguyen Ngoc He highlighted the significant progress made in using atomic energy and nuclear technology in recent years. These advancements have greatly improved diagnosis and treatment, particularly in cancer treatment. Furthermore, the rapid development of radiation equipment and radioactive sources across various fields has substantially benefited society.

Vice Chairman of Can Tho City People's Committee Nguyen Ngoc He spoke at the drill.

According to Mr. Nguyen Ngoc He, Can Tho City currently has over 100 radiation facilities, including 80 medical X-ray facilities and 20 facilities that use radioactive sources. In the medical field, more than 1 million X-rays are performed on average each year for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, serving the healthcare needs of the people. However, radiation and nuclear incidents can occur at any time and anywhere, necessitating all sectors at all levels, especially the scientific industry, to always be prepared and have an adequate response plan.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Tuan Khai, the Vietnam Agency for Radiation and Nuclear Safety under the Ministry of Science and Technology, delivered a speech at the drill.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Tuan Khai, the Vietnam Agency for Radiation and Nuclear Safety under the Ministry of Science and Technology, emphasized that the drill aims to promote awareness and provide experience for agencies and facilities involved in radiation work and the general public. The objective is to prepare them to respond effectively to potential radiation incidents, prevent such incidents proactively, and seek assistance during radiation and nuclear application activities when necessary.

Awarding Certificates of Merit from Can Tho City People's Committee to units participating in the Drill.