Massachusetts is outfitting 200 hazardous-materials technicians with personal radiation detectors through a federal grant that also paid for 14 larger meters, the Department of Fire Services announced Oct. 28.
The personal devices warn responders when radioactive material may be present. The larger meters are more sensitive than the personal devices.
The equipment is funded through the federal Securing the Cities program, administered regionally by the Boston Police Department. The program is part of the Department of Homeland Security's work to detect radiological and nuclear threats.
State Fire Marshal Jon Davine said checking for radiation is one of the first steps technicians take at a scene, even when radiation is not the main known hazard. Radioactive substances can be present in medical equipment and laboratories, he said.
The Department of Fire Services announcement details the grant and the equipment being distributed.