Cecil Kelley criticality accident

Cecil Kelley Criticality Accident

The Cecil Kelley Criticality Accident is a significant event in the history of nuclear safety and radiation protection. It occurred on December 30, 1958, at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) in New Mexico, USA. This incident is notable for being one of the earliest criticality accidents in the world, leading to a fatality and highlighting the importance of stringent safety protocols in nuclear facilities.

Background

Los Alamos National Laboratory is a facility known for its pivotal role in the development of nuclear weapons during the Manhattan Project. In the years following World War II, LANL continued its research and development in nuclear science, including the processing and handling of plutonium. The Cecil Kelley accident occurred in the Chemical Processing Plant of LANL, specifically in a mixing tank where plutonium solutions were processed.

The Accident

The accident was triggered when a critical mass was inadvertently formed in a mixing tank containing a plutonium solution. The criticality was achieved due to a combination of factors, including the concentration and volume of the plutonium solution, the presence of neutron-reflective materials, and the shape and dimensions of the tank. Cecil Kelley, a chemical operator, was working near the tank when the criticality occurred, exposing him to a lethal dose of neutron radiation.

The criticality event was brief, lasting only a few milliseconds, but it released a significant amount of energy and radiation. Kelley was the only casualty, as he was standing directly above the tank at the time of the accident. The incident led to immediate evacuation and a shutdown of the facility for investigation and safety reassessment.

Aftermath and Impact

The Cecil Kelley Criticality Accident had a profound impact on nuclear safety protocols and radiation protection measures. It underscored the need for rigorous safety analyses and the implementation of criticality control measures in nuclear facilities. The accident prompted LANL and other nuclear institutions to develop more stringent safety standards, including the use of criticality alarms, better training for personnel, and improved design and operational procedures to prevent similar incidents.

Legacy

Today, the Cecil Kelley Criticality Accident is studied as a cautionary tale in the field of nuclear safety. It serves as a reminder of the potential hazards associated with handling fissile materials and the importance of adhering to safety protocols. The incident has contributed to the development of a safety culture in nuclear research and industry, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement in safety measures and awareness.

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