Radioactive substances in smoke detectors and exit signs

• Individual or small numbers of smoke detectors can be disposed via normal household rubbish.
  
• The Radiation Health Unit should be contacted for information on the safe disposal of radioactive exit signs.

Smoke detectors

Typical household smoke detectors may either exist as non-radioactive photoelectric type devices or else may contain less than 1µCi (40kBq) of Americium 241 (241Am or Am-241). This can be confirmed by reading the yellow label inside the detector.

The possession of Am-241 in smoke detectors is exempted from the usual restrictions placed on radioactive materials provided that the smoke detectors comply with the relevant Australian Standards, contain less than 40kBq of Am-241 each and that the total amount of Am-241 on the premises does not exceed 100MBq (more than 2500 smoke detectors).

With regard to questions about the disposal of smoke detectors or smoke alarms containing small amounts of radioactivity, the Radiological Council (external site). has recommended that the disposal of individual or small numbers of smoke detectors be conducted via normal household rubbish.

If you have a large number of smoke detectors to dispose of, or if they are the older industrial type that may contain more than 1µCi (40kBq) of Am-241 or any other radioisotope, please contact the Radiation Health Unit.

Radioactive exit signs

Exit signs that contain a quantity of the radioactive gas tritium may exist in small numbers throughout the community and are no longer approved for public buildings. For advice on replacements for these signs contact your local government authority.

Radioactive exit signs are safe to handle and can be removed by any person but care must be taken to prevent breakage i.e. the signs should not be levered from their position or twisted. As these signs are no longer within their useful life, the Radiation Health Unit should be contacted for information about safe disposal.

More information 

Environmental Health Directorate – Radiation Health
Phone: 9388 4999
Fax: 9382 0701
Email: Radiation Health

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This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.