Radiology Safety Advisor Says Lynas Plant Safe

By Nur Adila Abdul Wahab GEORGE TOWN (Malaysia), April 26 (Bernama) -- A radiology safety adviser for Lynas Malaysia Sdn Bhd has assured that the rare earth processing plant to be built at the Gebeng Industrial Estate in Kuantan, Pahang, is safe. Kuantan is the capital city of east coast Pahang state in Peninsular Malaysia. Prof Ismail Bahari who is also a lecturer at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia said radiation from the Lynas rare earth factory would be low and would not have an adverse impact on the local residents. "Admittedly there is radiation, but the amount is minimal and not harmful. Every worker will adhere to safe operation procedures like in any other industries. We have taken into account public and environmental concerns. "In terms of safety, the plant is safe and Lynas will ensure it remains so. Our operating procedures are all based on international safety standards," he told Bernama after giving a briefing at a national academic discourse organised by the Penang Special Affairs Department here Wednesday. He also pointed to the affirmations by the Atomic Energy Licensing Board and the Department of Environment, as well as the Department of Occupational Safety and Health which said that the proposed Lynas plant was not categorised as a major hazard under the Control of Industrial Major Accident Hazards. Ismail maintained that objections to the plant particularly by the opposition were without basis as they did not come from experts in the industry and unsubstantiated with evidence. "The person who led the allegations never came to Lynas, never suggested or showed to Lynas what the real issue is. "Each time Lynas comes out (with an explanation), we show the proof, we give handouts to the public and also the opposition. "They can read and challenge us. But they have never challenged us on all the information provided," he added. -- BERNAMA