Why You Can Go Inside Chernobyl Reactor 4 Control Room Despite It Not Being Inside the Sarcophagus

Chernobyl, often shrouded in mystery and danger, presents a unique and intriguing scenario. Many visitors and workers may wonder: Why are you allowed to go inside the control room of Reactor 4, haven’t you heard it is inside the Sarcophagus? This article aims to clarify this common misconception and provide a comprehensive understanding of the current access conditions and safety measures.

Current Access Conditions

Access to the control room of Reactor 4 is not a trivial matter. The Chernobyl workers are indeed embarked on a challenging mission to dismantle the unstable Sarcophagus. However, the progress is somewhat hindered by the geopolitical situation. Despite these challenges, workers and visitors alike have been granted access to the newer shelter and the remnants of the Sarcophagus. Curiously, you can even enter the control rooms of the remaining three reactors, which continued to operate for several years post-disaster.

Understanding the Sarcophagus

Contrary to popular belief, the control room itself is not inside the Sarcophagus. Our current understanding of the structure involves a complex architecture: Reactor 4 is encapsulated within the Sarcophagus, which in turn is located inside the newer Shelter. Visually, the Sarcophagus spans several stories, with its metallic roof towering above the control room. If one were to walk into the control room, the only sarcophagus element adjacent would be the metal roof several stories above your head. It is important to note that the hallway leading from the control room to the reactor has been filled with concrete, further emphasizing this distinction.

Decontamination and Safety Measures

The control room is intentionally sealed to protect against radiation. Given the vast expanse of the Chernobyl facility, the reactors maintain a safe distance from the control rooms, significantly mitigating radiation risks. Despite the safety measures in place, visitors should still exercise extreme caution. While the room has been extensively decontaminated, it is not entirely safe. Therefore, one should avoid touching anything within the room to prevent potential contamination.

Interesting Sites to Visit: The Elephants' Foot and Reactor Chamber

The Elephants' Foot and the Reactor Chamber above it are more captivating attractions for many visitors. These remnants of the disaster, located inside the Sarcophagus, continue to draw a significant number of curious visitors to the site. The Elephants' Foot, a molten core sample, is a testament to the cataclysmic explosion that occurred in 1986. Visitors are often fascinated by these iconic remains, which, while not inside the control room, are within the boundaries of the Sarcophagus.

In conclusion, while the concept of the Sarcophagus is a critical element of Chernobyl's history, the control room of Reactor 4 is not actually inside this structure. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into one of the world's most notorious nuclear disasters, but it also requires a deep understanding of the current safety measures and access conditions. If you are planning a visit, familiarize yourself with the latest updates and proceed with the utmost caution and respect for the site's history and ongoing challenges.