Safely Disposing of Unwanted Radioactive Sources: Understanding the SCATR Program

In the world of radiation safety, managing the lifecycle of radioactive materials is just as important as their proper use. For healthcare facilities, research institutions, and other licensed users of radioactive sources, the question often arises: What do we do with unwanted or disused radioactive sources? Enter the Source Collection and Threat Reduction (SCATR) program.

What is the SCATR Program?

The SCATR program, managed by the Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors (CRCPD) in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), offers a practical solution for the safe and cost-effective disposal of unwanted radioactive sources. These sources—whether sealed sources used in medical treatments, research, or industrial applications—can pose ongoing safety and security risks if not properly disposed of.

Why Does Proper Disposal Matter?

Radioactive materials don’t simply 'go away' once they’re no longer in use. Disused sources, if left unattended or improperly stored, can degrade over time, increasing the risk of leaks, contamination, or even theft. Proper disposal ensures:

Compliance: Licensees stay in line with NRC and state radiation control regulations.
Safety: The risk of accidental exposure or environmental contamination is minimized.
Security: Unwanted sources don’t become orphaned or fall into the wrong hands.

How Does the SCATR Program Help?

The SCATR program organizes collection events where eligible radioactive sources are gathered and sent to licensed disposal facilities. One key advantage is the program’s ability to reduce financial barriers for disposal by:

Coordinating bulk disposal rates — lowering costs by consolidating multiple sources.
Offering financial assistance — federal funding may offset expenses for smaller facilities.
Providing guidance — helping facilities navigate the regulatory and logistical aspects of source disposal.

Who Can Participate?

The SCATR program is open to licensed users of radioactive materials, including:

Healthcare providers (hospitals, clinics, and radiology centers)
Research facilities and universities
Industrial users (manufacturing, testing, and calibration labs)
Veterinary clinics utilizing radiopharmaceuticals

For California-based facilities, participation in SCATR ensures not only regulatory compliance but also demonstrates a proactive approach to radiation safety.

How Can York Medical Physics Help?

At York Medical Physics, we understand the complexities of managing radioactive sources from procurement to disposal. We can assist your facility by:

Assessing your inventory of disused or unwanted sources.
Preparing documentation and ensuring proper labeling for SCATR events.
Coordinating with regulatory agencies to streamline the process.
Providing ongoing radiation safety training for your team.

Proper radioactive source disposal isn’t just about ticking a regulatory box—it’s about ensuring safety, security, and community protection. If your facility has disused sources sitting in storage, let’s work together to find a solution.

For more information about the 2025-2026 SCATR program, click below or contact York Medical Physics today.