Patent ID: 7644967

Claim:
A handling tool for securely handling a radioactive source the handling tool comprising a gripping device to grip and release a radioactive source, a first securing device and a second securing device, wherein the first securing device comprises: a chamber adapted to contain the radioactive source; an annular flapper cage, the annular flapper cage being slidably mounted on the chamber, the annular flapper cage sliding to an open position relative to the chamber when the chamber is brought in proximity with a source pocket the annular flapper cage sliding to a closed position relative to the chamber when the chamber is withdrawn from the source pocket, and a flapper movably mounted onto the annular flapper cage such that the flapper moves to open the chamber in the open position of the annular flapper cage, and the flapper moves to close the chamber in the closed position of the annular flapper cage; wherein the second securing device comprises: said gripping device to grip and release a radioactive source; and a positioning mechanism to position the gripping device in the source pocket or inside the chamber of the first securing device.