nuclear-news

Botswana workers concerned over radiation from full body X-ray scanning

Debswana workers fear radiation exposure, MMegi online, ISAIAH MOREWAGAE, STAFF WRITER, 5 Feb 12,  Debswana and its employees might be headed for a showdown after it emerged that the diamond mining company is pressing ahead with plans to introduce Scannex X-ray body search machines at its diamond mines.

Mmegi has learnt that the company’s employees are unhappy with the X-ray full body search machines, as this has not been preceded by relevant research on the impact of radiation exposure on the health of workers and by close consultation with them.The employees, through the Botswana Mine Workers Union (BMWU), expressed concern that they were
not involved in the decision to roll out the project. They insist that the company has reneged on its previous promises to engage in further joint research and close worker consultation.

BMWU deputy secretary-general and spokesperson, Sebataladi Ramoitoi confirmed in an interview with Mmegi that no thorough research related to the possible effects of the machine on people has yet been done.”We met the director of radiation on October 12, because we have learnt that Debswana is going ahead with its decision to apply for licenses from the radiation board. We have been holding meetings with Debswana and they told us that there is no turning back as they are going ahead with their application,” Ramoitoi said…..
http://www.mmegi.bw/index.php?sid=1&aid=298&dir=2012/February/Friday3

February 7, 2012 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | AFRICA, health