Missing Construction Gauge with Radiological Element; Reward Offered

LITTLEROCK, Dec. 15, 2023 - Los Angeles County Public Works officials continue their search for a sensitive piece of construction equipment used to measure the density of soil and roadway asphalt.

The device, known as a thin layer density gauge, was reported missing Dec. 14 by Public Works crews testing the thickness of the roadway at the intersection of 110th Street East and Avenue R-4.

A thin layer density gauge can be hazardous if mishandled or damaged, and radiation sickness could occur.

Members of the public are advised to call 911 immediately if they encounter the piece of equipment to allow a trained individual to recover it.

The device is bright yellow, approximately 19inches long, 9 inches wide and 6 inches high. It has a 5-inch handle and a radiation logo on its side.

It was last seen on Dec. 14 at 4 p.m. in the truck bed of a marked Los Angeles County Public Works vehicle.

Portable gauges of this type use radiation to measure density – much like a medical x-ray is used to produce images of bones. The devices are lined with lead shielding around a sealed source of radiation. The shield is closed when the gauge is not in use. When properly used, these gauges will not expose the user to radiation.

If the device is tampered with a struck by a vehicle, there is potential for damage to the radioactive source and spread of contamination.

A $1,000 reward is being offered for the device’s return.