The accident happened when an insecurely stored Preserving unlicensed cobalt-60 radiation source was recovered Recovering by scrap metal collectors who , together with a scrapyard worker , subsequently dismantled Destroying the container , unknowingly exposing themselves and others nearby to ionizing radiation .

While seated Placing at the controls Control , the pilot 's son had unknowingly disengaged Removing the A310 's autopilot control Control of the aircraft 's ailerons .