No traces of polonium 210 found in Finns

British authorities have initiated wide-scale investigations to trace the origin of the polonium 210 that was used to poison Litvinenko and to find out if the substance has caused any danger to outsiders. It has been released that authorities have found traces of radioactivity in two British Airways aircrafts and a third craft has been taken in for investigation. British Airways has asked the passengers of these planes to contact medical personnel, even though it is highly unlikely that they have been exposed to any hazardous radiation.

So far, British authorities have examined approximately 500 people for traces of polonium, but no traces have been found. The aircraft incidents will increase the number of people examined even by thousands.

If needed, STUK will examine Finns who were on the British Airways flights

According to British Airways, the planes in which the radioactive traces were found flew from London Heathrow to European cities. For detailed information on the flights under investigation, see  www.britishairways.com.

If there were any Finns on the investigated flights, they can contact STUK by telephone at 09-759881 during normal office hours. STUK can thoroughly investigate the matter, if this is deemed necessary.

Polonium is very hazardous

Polonium is a highly toxic metalloid chemical element that is present in very small quantities everywhere in the nature. In Finland, minimal concentrations of polonium can be found, for example, in drilled wells. Its radioactive half-life is 138 days. It is hazardous for people when inhaled, ingested or in contact with broken skin.

Additional information:          
Tarja K. Ikäheimonen, Deputy Director, tel. 0400 811 254
Risto Isaksson, Information Officer, tel. (09) 759 88 208