New York City

NYC Hospitals Replacing Machines to Reduce ‘Dirty Bomb' Terror Risk

What to Know

  • 12 hospitals and research institutions in NYC will replace devices that contain radiologic material that could be used in a "dirty bomb"
  • Two machines already have been removed and 28 others will be replaced by 2023
  • It costs about $500,000 to remove and replace a machine. The U.S. Department of Energy is paying for half

Twelve hospitals and research institutions in New York City have agreed to replace devices that contain radiologic material that could be used in a "dirty bomb" attack.

The initiative, announced by the city's health and police departments, focuses on devices used for preparing blood transfusions and cancer research.

Two machines already have been removed and 28 others will be replaced by 2023.

The health commissioner, Dr. Mary Bassett, said Wednesday that it's "highly unlikely" the material could get into the wrong hands.

But she added: "The best exposure to dangerous material is zero."

It costs about $500,000 to remove and replace a machine. The U.S. Department of Energy is paying for half.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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