Potassium Iodide (KI) Tablet Distribution

A map of CRL's primary zone for emergency planning.

CNL, under new regulations set by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) is required to pre-distribute potassium iodide (KI) tablets to permanent residents in the primary zone of our Chalk River campus. Distribution of Potassium iodide (KI) tablets is the joint effort of the municipalities of Deep River, the Town of Laurentian Hills, Sheenboro, the Province of Quebec, the Province of Ontario and CNL.

For Chalk River Laboratories, the primary zone, defined by the province in both Ontario and Quebec, is a nine kilometre radius from the reactor stack. If your household is located within that nine kilometre radius you will receive or have received an information package and KI tablets.

It is important to point out that the risk has not changed at Chalk River Laboratories, what has changed are the regulations in which the laboratory operates. We operate on robust processes and procedures that allow us to build a strong safety culture. KI tablets block the thyroid, preventing the organ from absorbing radioactive iodine. KI tablets continue to be pre-stocked in the primary zone for use during an emergency.

The tablet package contains 20 tablets (the equivalent of 10 adult doses). If more tablets are required Ontario residents can pick up additional packages at the PHARMASAVE Cahoon’s Pharmacy in Deep River. Quebec residents are asked to contact their municipality if more tablets are required.