August 13, 2012 – Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd. (AECL) reports over 2000 people attended its public Open House held at Chalk River Laboratories on August 11. The event gave the local community an opportunity to learn more about “Canada’s premier nuclear science and technology organization”, and some of the unique Canadian science facilities that call the Ottawa Valley home.

“I am enormously pleased that over 2000 of our friends and neighbours came out to attend the 2012 AECL Open House,” said Bob Walker, president and CEO of AECL. “This day took six months of planning and, in the end, I think we showcased some of the important science and technology work that takes place here at the Chalk River Laboratories. A big thank you must also be given to all of my colleagues who came out and helped today with display booths, gave tours and volunteered their time.”

Children spent time at the “Kids in Science” demonstration by Science North, where they took part in hands-on science experiments. There were also over a dozen heavy equipment vehicles on display, and families were able to dress up and pretend they were firefighters.

Last held in the summer of 2000, AECL’s Open House provides the local community a glimpse into some of the different programs and services that AECL undertakes on behalf of Canadians. After a brief orientation presentation, visitors were able to participate in walking tours of laboratories and facilities managed by different AECL departments, including the Mechanical Equipment Development, Inspection, Monitoring & Dynamics, Fluid Sealing Technologies and the Machine Shop.