Gilbert U-238 Atomic Energy Lab toy lab set - photo

[jdurand]

I used to do alpha particle testing in an electronics lab (hardened chips). Of course alpha doesn't penetrate plastic so I would carry the source in a plastic box in my pocket. Taking it out, opening the top (AWAY from anyone including me) and bringing it to a counter really upset visitors.

I also have a tritium tube embedded in thick plastic on my keychain. I was showing it to a young scientist in training in Russia a couple of years ago, he was impressed to see it and realize it was perfectly safe.

I wonder what the rules are about carrying radioactive substances internationally?