August 1, 2002 

Emergency Responder

Guidelines
Office of Justice Programs 

Office for Domestic Preparedness 

The Office of Justice Programs (OJP) Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP) is the 

Department of Justice component responsible for enhancing the capabilities of state and local 

jurisdictions to prepare for, and respond to, incidents of domestic terrorism involving chemical 

and biological agents, and nuclear, radioactive, and explosive devices. ODP assistance to state 

and local jurisdictions includes providing grant funds to enable these jurisdictions to purchase 

specialized equipment for emergency response agencies, providing critical training to emergency 

response personnel, supporting state and local emergency response exercises, and providing 

technical assistance to state and local emergency response agencies and public officials. 

Under the ODP domestic preparedness training program, training is developed and delivered to 

the nation’s emergency response community through a number of mechanisms, including the 

Center for Domestic Preparedness (CDP) located at Anniston, Alabama. The CDP is a 

component of ODP and is a federal training facility dedicated to training state and local 

emergency response personnel. 

The Director of ODP reports directly to the Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Justice 

Programs. For more information on ODP and its programs, please contact the ODP website at 

www.ojp.usdoj.gov/odp or call the ODP Helpline at 1-800-368-6498 from 9:00am to 6:00pm 

Monday through Friday. 
EMERGENCY RESPONDER 

GUIDELINES 

First Responder Guidelines 

Table of Contents 

INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................................................I

HOW TO USE THESE GUIDELINES............................................................................................................................ I

AWARENESS LEVEL GUIDELINES..................................................................................................................... 1

A. LAW ENFORCEMENT.......................................................................................................................................... 1

B. FIRE SERVICE..................................................................................................................................................... 4

C. EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES..................................................................................................................... 7

D. EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ........................................................................................................................... 10

E. PUBLIC WORKS ................................................................................................................................................ 13

PERFORMANCE LEVEL GUIDELINES............................................................................................................. 16

A. LAW ENFORCEMENT........................................................................................................................................ 16

B. FIRE SERVICE................................................................................................................................................... 22

C. EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES ................................................................................................................... 28

D. HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ................................................................................................................................. 34

E. PUBLIC WORKS ................................................................................................................................................ 38

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL GUIDELINES .............................................................................. 40

A. LAW ENFORCEMENT........................................................................................................................................ 40

B. FIRE SERVICE................................................................................................................................................... 44

C. EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES................................................................................................................... 48

D. HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ................................................................................................................................ 52

E. EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ........................................................................................................................... 56

F. PUBLIC WORKS ................................................................................................................................................ 62

APPENDIX TO PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL GUIDELINES .................................................. 66

SKILLED SUPPORT AND SPECIALIST EMPLOYEES................................................................................................ 66

GLOSSARY OF TERMS..................................................................................................................................... 68

TRAINING COURSES BY OFFERING AGENCY.......................................................................................... 74
i 

INTRODUCTION 

Recent tragic events have forced the citizens of the United States, and the public safety agencies 

that serve them, to confront the terrible potential of terrorism involving the use of weapons of 

mass destruction (WMD). A chemical, biological, radiological/nuclear, or explosive/ incendiary 

attack would pose unprecedented challenges for police, fire, emergency medical service, and 

emergency management personnel—the nation’s first line of defense. The U.S. Department of 

Justice (DOJ) Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP) was established in 1998 to help provide 

training to first responders across the nation as part of an integrated program that also includes 

the provision of specialized equipment, exercises, and technical assistance. The objective of 

those efforts, each of which contributes to the greater whole, is to enhance responder capacity. 

To help provide America’s response community with a baseline understanding of the training 

necessary to effectively and safely respond to an act of terrorism involving the use of WMD, the 

ODP has prepared these Emergency Responder Guidelines. 

These Guidelines are offered not as definitive or official regulations, but rather as the informed 

advice of subject-matter experts from both the private and public sectors. As such, these 

Guidelines are presented as neither minimum standards nor rules. They carry no regulatory 

force, nor are they implied to have such force. They are offered to the response community as 

considerations for use in whatever way a particular agency finds appropriate. 

Although these Guidelines are not official regulations, they have been written in concert with 

existing codes and standards of agencies, such as the National Fire Prevention Association 

(NFPA) and Federal regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health 

Administration (OSHA). ODP has shared these Guidelines with the other key Federal agencies 

involved in first responder training, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency, 

National Fire Academy and the Emergency Management Institute, U.S. Department of Defense, 

Federal Bureau of Investigation, Environmental Protection Agency, Federal Law Enforcement 

Training Center, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and others. Their comments 

and recommendations are included herein. 

These Guidelines are intended to be a tool for first responders seeking to improve their training 

and master their craft, reflecting a step-by-step progression from Awareness through 

Performance to Planning and Management. Moving from one step to another requires more 

experience, specialized training, and depth of understanding. These Guidelines also may be used 

by course developers and trainers looking for a common ground with training programs in other 

jurisdictions. 

How to Use These Guidelines 

These Guidelines provide an integrated compilation of responder skills, knowledge, and 

capabilities. While each training level—Awareness, Performance, and Planning and 

Management—is divided into specific response disciplines (e.g., Law Enforcement, Fire, EMS, 

etc.), there are many commonalities among each subsection. These commonalities reflect the 

reality that effective WMD response strategies must be built on interoperability and an 

understanding of how all the pieces of the response fit together. These Guidelines help illustrate 
ii

the areas where common training and understanding—even cross training among disciplines—

can be effectively accomplished. 

A key component of the Guidelines is the appended list of relevant training courses. This list, 

while not necessarily comprehensive, is intended to provide responders with information on 

those courses that provide training in the specific response elements covered in the Guidelines. 

In the print version of this document, the training list is cross-referenced within each discipline, 

to help identify relevant courses. In the electronic version, each response element is linked to the 

appropriate courses, so that the user can immediately click to the appropriate training sources. 

Some training courses are, of course, applicable to multiple elements. 
1

AWARENESS LEVEL GUIDELINES 

A. Law Enforcement 

AWARENESS LEVEL FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS FOR 

EVENTS INVOLVING WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION 

AWARENESS LEVEL: Addresses training requirements for law enforcement personnel 

who are likely to witness or discover an event involving the terrorist/criminal use of 

weapons of mass destruction or who may be sent out to initially investigate the report of 

such an event. Generally, all actions to be taken by these personnel should be conducted 

from within the cold zone. If personnel find themselves in the warm or hot zone, they are 

to move from that zone and encourage others, if ambulatory, to move to a staging area 

away from the immediate threat. They should attempt to minimize further contamination. 

AWARENESS LEVEL GUIDELINES FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS: 

I. Recognize hazardous materials incidents. The law enforcement officer should: 

a. Understand what hazardous materials are, as well as the risks associated with these 

materials in an emergency incident or event. 

b. Identify if hazardous materials are present in an emergency incident or event. 

c. Know how to use the North American Emergency Response Guidebook (NAERG) 

published by the U.S. Department of Transportation. 

d. Use the NAERG (or other available resources) to identify the hazardous material. 

e. Understand the potential outcomes or consequences of an emergency due to the 

presence of hazardous materials. 

II. Know the protocols used to detect the potential presence of weapons of mass 

destruction (WMD) agents or materials. The law enforcement officer should: 

a. Understand what WMD agents or materials are and the risks associated with these 

materials in an emergency incident or event. 

b. Know the indicators and effects of WMD on individuals and property. Be able to 

recognize signs and symptoms common to initial victims of a WMD-related 

incident or event. Know the physical characteristics or properties of WMD agents 

or materials that could be reported by victims or other persons at the scene. 

c. Be familiar with the potential use and means of delivery of WMD agents or 

materials. 

d. Know locations or properties that could become targets for persons using WMD 

agents or materials. 

e. Recognize unusual trends or characteristics that might indicate an incident or event 

involving WMD agents or materials. 
2

III. Know and follow self-protection measures for WMD events and hazardous 

materials events. The law enforcement officer should: 

a. Understand the hazards and risks to individuals and property associated with WMD 

agents and hazardous materials. Recognize the signs and symptoms of exposure to 

WMD agents and hazardous materials. 

b. Know how to use, inspect, and properly maintain the personal protective equipment 

issued to the officer. Understand the limitations of this equipment in protecting 

someone exposed to WMD agents or hazardous materials. 

c. Understand that ambulatory victims should move upwind and upgrade from the 

area. Know that potentially contaminated victims should be isolated from others. 

These victims should be advised about appropriate actions to take and that they may 

need to be decontaminated. Minimize contamination of adjacent areas. 

d. Understand the role of the first responder as well as other levels of response in the 

department’s emergency response plan. 

e. Be familiar with his/her agency’s emergency response plan and procedures. 

Understand the individual officers’ role in those procedures. 

f. Know what defensive measures to take during a WMD or hazardous materials 

incident or event to help ensure personal and community safety. These measures 

may include maximizing the distance between the officer and hot zone, using 

shielding such as solid walls for protection, minimizing personal exposure time to 

agents or materials that might be found in the warm zone or within the plume, and 

moving upgrade and upwind. 

IV. Know procedures for protecting a potential crime scene. The law enforcement 

officer should:

a. Understand and implement procedures for protecting evidence and minimizing 

disturbance of the potential crime scene while protecting others. Understand the 

roles, responsibilities, and jurisdictions of Federal agencies related to a WMD event 

or incident. 

b. Recognize the importance of crime scene preservation and initiate measures to 

secure the scene. 

c. Protect physical evidence such as footprints, relevant containers, or wrapping paper, 

etc. 

d. Advise witnesses and bystanders who may have information to remain at the scene 

in a safe location until they have been interviewed and released. Be aware of 

people arriving or departing the scene. Note license plate numbers or other relevant 

data. Question the caller, witness(es), or victim(s) to obtain critical information 

regarding the incident or event. Such questions include, “Where is the package, and 

what does it contain?” “Does the package have an unusual odor or smell?” “Has the 

package been disturbed?” “Have there been any threats received before receipt of 

the package” “Does the package contain a written threat, and if so, what does it 

say?” 
3

V. Know and follow agency/organization’s scene security and control procedures 

for WMD and hazardous material events. The law enforcement officer should: 

a. Understand his/her agency/organization’s site security and scene control procedures 

for awareness level trained personnel. Follow these procedures for ensuring scene 

security and for keeping unauthorized persons away from the scene and adjacent 

hazardous areas. Such procedures include cordoning off the area to prevent anyone 

from inadvertently entering the scene. Maintain scene security and control until a 

higher authority arrives at the scene. 

b. Be familiar with his/her agency’s incident command procedures. 

c. Protect physical evidence such as footprints, relevant containers, or wrapping paper, 

etc. 

d. Know and follow his/her agency’s procedures for isolating the danger area. Know 

how to deal with contaminated victims until a higher authority arrives. 

e. Recognize that the incident or event scene may be a crime scene and that evidence 

must be protected and undisturbed until a higher authority arrives and takes control. 

VI. Possess and know how to properly use equipment to contact dispatcher or 

higher authorities to report information collected at the scene and to request 

additional assistance or emergency response personnel. The law enforcement 

officer should: 

a. Know how to use communications equipment, including a two-way radio or cellular 

phone to contact the dispatcher or higher authorities to apprise them of the situation 

at the scene and to request additional assistance and personnel to properly deal with 

the event. 

b. Understand how to accurately describe a WMD event and be aware of the available 

response assets within the affected jurisdiction(s) nearest the event location. 

c. Know when to request additional help and follow his/her agency’s emergency 

response plan procedures for establishing incident command.

d. Know how to notify the communications center or dispatcher and to assess the 

degree of hazard to obtain appropriate additional resources. 
4

B. Fire Service 

AWARENESS LEVEL FOR FIRE FIGHTERS FOR EVENTS INVOLVING 

WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION 

AWARENESS LEVEL: Addresses training requirements for fire fighters who are 

likely to witness or discover an event involving the terrorist/criminal use of weapons 

of mass destruction (WMD) or who may be sent out to initially investigate the report 

of such an event. Generally, all actions to be taken by these personnel should be 

conducted from within the cold zone. If personnel find themselves in the warm or hot 

zone, they are to move from that zone and encourage others, if ambulatory, to move 

to a staging area away from the immediate threat. 

AWARENESS LEVEL GUIDELINES FOR FIRE FIGHTERS: 

I. Recognize hazardous materials incidents. The fire fighter should: 

a. Understand what hazardous materials are, as well as the risks associated with these 

materials in an emergency incident or event. 

b. Identify if hazardous materials are present in an emergency incident or event. 

c. Know how to use the North American Emergency Response Guidebook (NAERG) 

published by the U.S. Department of Transportation. 

d. Use the NAERG (or other available resources) to identify the hazardous material. 

e. Understand the potential outcomes or consequences of an emergency due to the 

presence of hazardous materials with and without fire. 

II. Know the protocols used to detect the potential presence of weapons of mass 

destruction (WMD) agents or materials. The fire fighter should: 

a. Understand what WMD agents or materials are and the risks associated with these 

materials in an emergency incident or event. 

b. Know the indicators and effects of WMD on individuals and property. Be able to 

recognize signs and symptoms common to initial victims of a WMD-related 

incident or event. Know the physical characteristics or properties of WMD agents 

or materials that could be reported by victims or other persons at the scene. 

c. Be familiar with the potential use and means of delivery of WMD agents or 

materials. 

d. Know locations or properties that could become targets for persons using WMD 

agents or materials. 

e. Recognize unusual trends or characteristics that might indicate an incident or event 

involving WMD agents or materials. 
5

III. Know and follow self-protection measures for WMD events and hazardous 

materials events. The fire fighter should: 

a. Understand the hazards and risks to individuals and property associated with WMD 

agents and hazardous materials. Recognize the signs and symptoms of exposure to 

WMD agents and hazardous materials. 

b. Know how to use, inspect, and properly maintain the personal protective equipment 

issued to the officer. Understand the limitations of this equipment in protecting 

someone exposed to WMD agents or hazardous materials. 

c. Understand that ambulatory victims should move upwind and upgrade from the 

area. Know that potentially contaminated victims should be isolated from others. 

These victims should be advised about appropriate actions to take and that they may 

need to be decontaminated. Minimize contamination of adjacent areas. 

d. Understand the role of the first responder as well as other levels of response in the 

department’s emergency response plan. 

e. Be familiar with his/her agency’s emergency response plan and procedures. 

Understand the individual officers’ role in those procedures. 

f. Know what defensive measures to take during a WMD or hazardous materials 

incident or event to help ensure personal and community safety. These measures 

may include maximizing the distance between the officer and hot zone, using 

shielding such as solid walls for protection, minimizing personal exposure to agents 

or materials that might be found in the warm zone or within the plume, and moving 

upgrade and upwind. 

IV. Know procedures for protecting a potential crime scene. Whether or not a 

witness to the event, the fire fighter should: 

a. Understand and implement procedures for protecting evidence and minimizing 

disturbance of the potential crime scene while protecting others. Understand the 

roles, responsibilities, and jurisdictions of Federal agencies related to a WMD event 

or incident. 

b. Recognize the importance of crime scene preservation and initiate measures to 

secure the scene. 

c. Protect physical evidence such as footprints, relevant containers, or wrapping paper, 

etc. 

d. Advise witnesses and bystanders who may have information to remain at the scene 

in a safe location until they have been interviewed and released. Be aware of 

people arriving or departing the scene. Understand what the hazards are and the 

risks associated with WMD agents and materials and hazardous materials as they 

relate to human health and wellbeing. Have the basic knowledge of the hazards to 

humans and the common signs and symptoms of exposure to WMD agents and 

materials and hazardous materials. 
6

V. Know and follow agency/organization’s scene security and control procedures 

for WMD and hazardous material events. The fire fighter should: 

a. Understand his/her agency/organization’s site security and scene control procedures 

for awareness level trained personnel. Follow these procedures for ensuring scene 

security and for keeping unauthorized persons away from the scene and adjacent 

hazardous areas. Such procedures include cordoning off the area to prevent anyone 

from inadvertently entering the scene. Maintain scene security and control until a 

higher authority arrives at the scene. 

b. Be familiar with his/her agency’s incident command procedures. 

c. Protect physical evidence such as footprints, relevant containers, or wrapping paper, 

etc. 

d. Know and follow his/her agency’s procedures for isolating the danger area. Know 

how to deal with contaminated victims until a higher authority arrives. 

e. Recognize that the incident or event scene may be a crime scene and that evidence 

must be protected and undisturbed until a higher authority arrives and takes 

VI. Possess and know how to properly use equipment to contact dispatcher or 

higher authorities to report information collected at the scene and to request 

additional assistance or emergency response personnel. The fire fighter should: 

a. Know how to use communications equipment, including a two-way radio or cellular 

phone to contact the dispatcher or higher authorities to apprise them of the situation 

at the scene and to request additional assistance and personnel to properly deal with 

the event. 

b. Understand how to accurately describe a WMD event and be aware of the available 

response assets within the affected jurisdiction(s) nearest the event location. 

c. Know when to request additional help and follow the fire department’s emergency 

response plan procedures for establishing incident command. 

d. Know how to notify the communications center or dispatcher and to assess the 

degree of hazard to obtain appropriate additional resources. 
7

C. Emergency Medical Services 

AWARENESS LEVEL FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE 

PROVIDERS FOR EVENTS INVOLVING WEAPONS OF MASS 

DESTRUCTION 

AWARENESS LEVEL: Address training requirements for emergency medical service 

(EMS) providers who are likely to respond to or discover an event involving the terrorist/ 

criminal use of weapons of mass destruction or who may be sent out to initially 

investigate the report of such an event. Generally, all actions to be taken by these 

personnel should be conducted from within the cold zone. If personnel find themselves in 

the warm or hot zone, they are to move from that zone and encourage others, if 

ambulatory, to move to a staging area away from the immediate threat. They should 

attempt to minimize further contamination. It is assumed that the EMS provider at the 

awareness level does not have emergency response supplies with him/her when arriving 

at the potential WMD scene (unless dispatched). The EMS provider that is anticipated to 

be covered by these guidelines would be trained in first aid and CPR using the Red Cross 

Community First Aid Course or equivalent up to and including paramedic trained 

personnel and emergency physicians. 

AWARENESS LEVEL GUDELINES FOR EMS PROVIDERS: 

I. Recognize hazardous materials incidents. The EMS provider should: 

a. Understand what hazardous materials are, as well as the risks associated with these 

materials in an emergency incident or event. 

b. Identify if hazardous materials are present in an emergency incident or event. 

c. Know how to use the North American Emergency Response Guidebook (NAERG) 

published by the U.S. Department of Transportation. 

d. Use the NAERG (or other available resources) to identify the hazardous material. 

e. Understand the potential outcomes or consequences of an emergency due to the 

presence of hazardous materials with and without fire. 

II. Know the protocols used to detect the potential presence of weapons of mass 

destruction (WMD) agents or materials. The EMS provider should: 

a. Understand what WMD agents or materials are and the risks associated with these 

materials in an emergency incident or event. 

b. Know the indicators and effects of WMD on individuals and property. Be able to 

recognize signs and symptoms common to initial victims of a WMD-related 

incident or event. 

c. Know the physical characteristics or properties of WMD agents or materials that 

could be reported by victims or other persons at the scene. 

d. Be familiar with the potential use and means of delivery of WMD agents or 

materials. 

e. Know locations or properties that could become targets for persons using WMD 

agents or materials. 
8

f. Recognize unusual trends or characteristics that might indicate an incident or event 

involving WMD agents or materials. 

III. Know and follow self-protection measures for WMD events and hazardous 

materials events. The EMS provider should: 

a. Understand the hazards and risks to individuals and property associated with WMD 

agents and hazardous materials. Recognize the signs and symptoms of exposure to 

WMD agents and hazardous materials. 

b. Know how to use, inspect, and properly maintain the personal protective equipment 

issued to the officer. Understand the limitations of this equipment in protecting 

someone exposed to WMD agents or hazardous materials. 

c. Understand and implement universal precautions for biological hazards involving 

blood and other bodily fluids. 

d. Recognize that ambulatory victims should move upwind and upgrade from the area. 

Know that potentially contaminated victims should be isolated from others. These 

victims should be advised about appropriate actions to take and that they may need 

to be decontaminated. If possible, while in the cold zone, conduct preliminary 

triage. 

e. Understand the role of the first responder, as well as other levels of response in the 

agency’s emergency response plan. 

f. Be familiar with his/her agency’s emergency response plan and procedures. 

Understand the individual EMSs provider’s role in those procedures. 

g. Know what defensive measures to take during a WMD or hazardous materials 

incident or event to help ensure personal and community safety. These measures 

may include maximizing the distance between the officer and hot zone, using 

shielding such as solid walls for protection, minimizing personal exposure to agents 

or materials that might be found in the warm zone or within the plume, and moving 

upgrade and upwind. 

IV. Know procedures for protecting a potential crime scene. Whether or not a 

witness to the event, the EMS provider should:

a. Understand and implement procedures for protecting evidence and minimizing 

disturbance of the potential crime scene while protecting others. Understand the 

roles and jurisdiction of Federal agencies in a WMD event. 

b. Recognize the importance of crime scene preservation and initiate measures to 

secure the scene. 

c. Protect physical evidence such as footprints, relevant containers, or wrapping paper, 

etc. 

d. Advise witnesses and bystanders who may have information to remain at the scene 

in a safe location until they have been interviewed and released. Be aware of 

people arriving or departing the scene. 

e. Understand the roles, responsibilities, and jurisdictions of Federal agencies related 

to a WMD event or incident. 
9

V. Know and follow agency/organization’s scene security and control procedures 

for WMD and hazardous material events. The EMS provider should: 

a. Understand his/her agency/organization’s site security and scene control procedures 

for awareness level trained personnel. Know procedures for ensuring scene security 

and for keeping unauthorized persons away from the scene and adjacent hazardous 

areas. Such procedures include cordoning off the area to prevent anyone from 

inadvertently entering the scene. Maintain scene security and control until a higher 

authority arrives at the scene. 

b. Be familiar with his/her agency’s incident command procedures. 

c. Protect physical evidence such as footprints, relevant containers, or wrapping paper, 

etc. 

d. Know and follow his/her agency’s procedures for isolating the danger area. Know 

how to deal with contaminated victims until a higher authority arrives. 

e. Recognize that the incident or event scene may be a crime scene and that evidence 

must be protected and undisturbed until a higher authority arrives and takes control. 

VI. Possess and know how to properly use equipment to contact dispatcher or 

higher authorities to report information collected at the scene and to request 

additional assistance or emergency response personnel. Know how to 

characterize a WMD event and be able to identify available response assets 

within the affected jurisdiction(s). The EMS provider should: 

a. Know how to use communications equipment, including a two-way radio or cellular 

phone to contact the dispatcher or higher authorities to apprise them of the situation 

at the scene and to request additional assistance and personnel to properly deal with 

the event. 

b. Understand how to accurately describe a WMD event and be aware of the available 

response assets within the affected jurisdiction(s) nearest the event location. 

c. Know when to request additional help and follow the organization’s emergency 

response plan procedures for establishing incident command. 

d. Know how to notify the communications center or dispatcher and to assess the 

degree of hazard to obtain appropriate additional resources. 
10

D. Emergency Management 

AWARENESS LEVEL FOR EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL 

FOR EVENTS INVOLVING WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION 

AWARENESS LEVEL: Addresses training requirements for emergency management 

personnel who are likely to witness or discover an event involving the terrorist/criminal 

use of weapons of mass destruction or who may be sent out to initially investigate the 

report of such an event. Generally, all actions to be taken by these personnel should be 

conducted from within the cold zone. If personnel find themselves in the warm or hot 

zone, they are to move from that zone and encourage others, if ambulatory, to move to a 

staging area away from the immediate threat. 

AWARENESS LEVEL GUIDELINES FOR EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 

PERSONNEL: 

I. Recognize hazardous materials incidents. The emergency management 

professional should: 

a. Understand what hazardous materials are, as well as the risks associated with these 

materials in an emergency incident or event. 

b. Identify if hazardous materials are present in an emergency incident or event. 

c. Know how to use the North American Emergency Response Guidebook (NAERG) 

published by the U.S. Department of Transportation. 

d. Use the NAERG (or other available resources) to identify the hazardous material. 

e. Understand the potential outcomes or consequences of an emergency due to the 

presence of hazardous materials with and without fire. 

II. Know the protocols used to detect the potential presence of weapons of mass 

destruction (WMD) agents or materials. The emergency management 

professional should: 

a. Understand what WMD agents or materials are and the risks associated with these 

materials in an emergency incident or event. 

b. Know the indicators and effects of WMD on individuals and property. Be able to 

recognize signs and symptoms common to initial victims of a WMD-related 

incident or event. 

c. Know the physical characteristics or properties of WMD agents or materials that 

could be reported by victims or other persons at the scene. 

d. Be familiar with the potential use and means of delivery of WMD agents or 

materials. 

e. Know locations or properties that could become targets for persons using WMD 

agents or materials. 
11

f. Recognize unusual trends or characteristics that might indicate an incident or event 

involving WMD agents or materials. 

III. Know and follow self-protection measures for WMD events and hazardous 

materials events. The emergency management professional should: 

a. Understand the hazards and risks to individuals and property associated with WMD 

agents and hazardous materials. Recognize the signs and symptoms of exposure to 

WMD agents and hazardous materials. 

b. Know how to use, inspect, and properly maintain the personal protective equipment 

issued to the officer. Understand the limitations of this equipment in protecting 

someone exposed to WMD agents or hazardous materials. 

c. Recognize that ambulatory victims should move upwind and upgrade from the area. 

Know that potentially contaminated victims should be isolated from others. These 

victims should be advised about appropriate actions to take and that they may need 

to be decontaminated. 

d. Understand the role of the first responder, as well as other levels of response in the 

agency’s emergency response plan. 

e. Be familiar with his/her agency’s emergency response plan and procedures. 

Understand the individual EMSs provider’s role in those procedures. 

f. Know what defensive measures to take during a WMD or hazardous materials 

incident or event to help ensure personal and community safety. These measures 

may include maximizing the distance between the officer and hot zone, using 

shielding such as solid walls for protection, minimizing personal exposure to agents 

or materials that might be found in the warm zone or within the plume, and moving 

upgrade and upwind. 

IV. Know procedures for protecting a potential crime scene. Whether or not a 

witness to the event, the emergency management professional should:

a. Understand and implement procedures for protecting evidence and minimizing 

disturbance of the potential crime scene while protecting others. Understand the 

roles and jurisdiction of Federal agencies in a WMD event. 

b. Recognize the importance of crime scene preservation and initiate measures to 

secure the scene. 

c. Protect physical evidence such as footprints, relevant containers, or wrapping paper, 

etc. 

d. Advise witnesses and bystanders who may have information to remain at the scene 

in a safe location until they have been interviewed and released. Be aware of 

people arriving or departing the scene. 

V. Know and follow agency/organization’s scene security and control procedures 

for WMD and hazardous material events. The emergency management 

professional should: 

a. Understand his/her agency/organization’s site security and scene control procedures 

for awareness level trained personnel. Know procedures for ensuring scene security 

and for keeping unauthorized persons away from the scene and adjacent hazardous 
12

areas. Such procedures include cordoning off the area to prevent anyone from 

inadvertently entering the scene. Maintain scene security and control until a higher 

authority arrives at the scene. 

b. Be familiar with his/her agency’s incident command procedures. 

c. Protect physical evidence such as footprints, relevant containers, or wrapping paper, 

etc. 

d. Know and follow his/her agency’s procedures for isolating the danger area. Know 

how to deal with contaminated victims until a higher authority arrives. 

e. Recognize that the incident or event scene may be a crime scene and that evidence 

must be protected and undisturbed until a higher authority arrives and takes control. 

VI. Possess and know how to properly use equipment to contact dispatcher or 

higher authorities to report information collected at the scene and to request 

additional assistance or emergency response personnel. The emergency 

management professional should: 

a. Know how to use communications equipment, including a two-way radio or cellular 

phone to contact the dispatcher or higher authorities to apprise them of the situation 

at the scene and to request additional assistance and personnel to properly deal with 

the event. 

b. Understand how to accurately describe a WMD event and be aware of the available 

response assets within the affected jurisdiction(s) nearest the event location. 

c. Know when to request additional help and follow the organization’s emergency 

response plan procedures for establishing incident command. 

d. Know how to notify the communications center or dispatcher and to assess the 

degree of hazard to obtain appropriate additional resources.
13

E. Public Works 

AWARENESS LEVEL FOR PUBLIC WORKS PERSONNEL FOR EVENTS 

INVOLVING WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION 

AWARENESS LEVEL: Addresses training requirements for public works employees 

who are likely to witness or discover an event involving the terrorist/criminal use of 

weapons of mass destruction (WMD) or who may be sent out to initially investigate the 

report of such an event. This training should target all non-operational employees; line 

personnel and operations supervisors, including highway maintenance crews; planners, 

engineers, and lab technicians; and superintendents. This training also is appropriate 

for Agency Directors employed by public works facilities associated with a local 

community, including a public works facility such as wastewater treatment or water 

operations covered by the emergency response plan. Generally, all actions to be taken 

by these personnel should be conducted from within the cold zone. If personnel find 

themselves in the warm or hot zone, they are to move from that zone and encourage 

others, if ambulatory, to move to a staging area away from the immediate threat. 

 

AWARENESS LEVEL GUIDELINES FOR PUBLIC WORKS PERSONNEL: 

I. Recognize hazardous materials incidents. The public works employee should: 

a. Understand what hazardous materials are, as well as the risks associated with these 

materials in an emergency incident or event. 

b. Identify if hazardous materials are present in an emergency incident or event. 

c. Know how to use the North American Emergency Response Guidebook (NAERG) 

published by the U.S. Department of Transportation. 

d. Use the NAERG (or other available resources) to identify the hazardous material. 

e. Understand the potential outcomes or consequences of an emergency due to the 

presence of hazardous materials with and without fire. 

II. Know the protocols used to detect the potential presence of weapons of mass 

destruction (WMD) agents or materials. The public works employee should: 

a. Understand what WMD agents or materials are and the risks associated with these 

materials in an emergency incident or event. 

b. Know the indicators and effects of WMD on individuals and property. Be able to 

recognize signs and symptoms common to initial victims of a WMD-related 

incident or event. 

c. Know the physical characteristics or properties of WMD agents or materials that 

could be reported by victims or other persons at the scene. 

d. Be familiar with the potential use and means of delivery of WMD agents or 

materials. 

e. Know locations or properties that could become targets for persons using WMD 

agents or materials. 
14

f. Recognize unusual trends or characteristics that might indicate an incident or event 

involving WMD agents or materials. 

III. Know and follow self-protection measures for WMD events and hazardous 

materials events. The public works employee should: 

a. Understand the hazards and risks to individuals and property associated with WMD 

agents and hazardous materials. Recognize the signs and symptoms of exposure to 

WMD agents and hazardous materials. 

b. Know how to use, inspect, and properly maintain the personal protective equipment 

issued to the officer. Understand the limitations of this equipment in protecting 

someone exposed to WMD agents or hazardous materials. 

c. Recognize that ambulatory victims should move upwind and upgrade from the area. 

Know that potentially contaminated victims should be isolated from others. 

d. Understand the role of the first responder, as well as other levels of response in the 

agency’s emergency response plan. 

e. Be familiar with his/her agency’s emergency response plan and procedures. 

Understand their role in those procedures. 

f. Know what defensive measures to take during a WMD or hazardous materials 

incident or event to help ensure personal and community safety. These measures 

may include maximizing the distance between the officer and hot zone, using 

shielding such as solid walls for protection, minimizing personal exposure to agents 

or materials that might be found in the warm zone or within the plume, and moving 

upgrade and upwind. 

g. Know the terminology and characteristics of WMD events, as well as potential 

impact of such an event. 

IV. Know procedures for protecting a potential crime scene. Whether a witness to 

the event or not, the public works employee should:

a. Understand and implement procedures for protecting evidence and minimizing 

disturbance of the potential crime scene while protecting others. Understand the 

roles and jurisdiction of Federal agencies in a WMD event. 

b. Recognize the importance of crime scene preservation and initiate measures to 

secure the scene. 

c. Protect physical evidence such as footprints, relevant containers, or wrapping paper, 

etc. 

d. Advise witnesses and bystanders who may have information to remain at the scene 

in a safe location until they have been interviewed and released. Be aware of 

people arriving or departing the scene. 

V. Know and follow agency/organization’s scene security and control procedures 

for WMD and hazardous material events. The public works employee should: 

a. Understand his/her agency/organization’s site security and scene control procedures 

for awareness level trained personnel. Know procedures for ensuring scene security 

and for keeping unauthorized persons away from the scene and adjacent hazardous 

areas. Such procedures include cordoning off the area to prevent anyone from 
15

inadvertently entering the scene. Maintain scene security and control until a higher 

authority arrives at the scene. 

b. Be familiar with his/her agency’s incident command procedures. 

c. Protect physical evidence such as footprints, relevant containers, or wrapping paper, 

etc. 

d. Know and follow his/her department’s procedures for isolating the danger area. 

Know how to deal with contaminated victims until a higher authority arrives. 

e. Recognize that the incident or event scene may be a crime scene and that evidence 

must be protected and undisturbed until a higher authority arrives and takes control. 

VI. Possess and know how to properly use equipment to contact dispatcher or 

higher authorities to report information collected at the scene and to request 

additional assistance or emergency response personnel. The public works 

employee should: 

a. Know how to use communications equipment, including a two-way radio or cellular 

phone to contact the dispatcher or higher authorities to apprise them of the situation 

at the scene and to request additional assistance and personnel to properly deal with 

the event. 

b. Understand how to accurately describe a WMD event and be aware of the available 

response assets within the affected jurisdiction(s) nearest the event location. 

c. Know when to request additional help and follow the organization’s emergency 

response plan procedures for establishing incident command. 

d. Know how to notify the communications center or dispatcher and to assess the 

degree of hazard to obtain appropriate additional resources. 
16

PERFORMANCE LEVEL GUIDELINES 

A. Law Enforcement 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS FOR EVENTS 

INVOLVING WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL: This level is divided into two parts with a separate set of training 

guidelines for each part. The training guidelines for the law enforcement officer at the 

performance level target officers who will likely be responding to the scene of a hazardous 

materials event or a potential terrorist criminal use of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) 

event. These officers will conduct on-scene operations within the warm zone and/or the hot zone 

(if properly trained and equipped) that has been set up on the scene of a potential WMD or 

hazardous materials event to control and close out the incident. It is expected that those officers 

trained for Performance Level A will work in the warm zone and cold zone and support those 

officers working in the hot zone. Officers trained for Performance Level B will work in the hot 

zone, and in the other zones set up on the incident scene as needed. 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL A [OPERATIONS LEVEL] GUIDELINES FOR LAW 

ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS: 

I. Have successfully completed adequate and proper training at the awareness level for 

events involving hazardous materials, and for WMD and other specialized training. 

The law enforcement officer should: 

a. Complete training in (or have equivalent training and experience) and understand the 

guidelines at the awareness level for law enforcement. 

b. Understand the terminology (including any glossary of WMD terms), classes of materials 

and agents, and toxicology of hazardous materials and WMD agents and materials. 

c. Be aware of any potential targets for possible attack by persons using WMD agents or 

materials. Know preplans to be used in his/her department’s emergency response plan for 

these locations. 

d. Know how to collect and forward intelligence regarding potential terrorist/criminal actions 

involving possible WMD agents or materials. Be able to coordinate the gathering of such 

intelligence from a variety of sources and organizations that may be on the scene. 

e. Demonstrate skill and knowledge in preparing hazard and risk analysis of potential WMD 

targets in the local community. Know how to assess the potential for direct threats, as well 

as collateral damage effects. 

f. Participate in a joint training exercise or drill with other emergency response organizations 

that are expected to participate in responding to a potential WMD event in the local area. 
17

II. Know the Incident Command System and be able to follow Unified Command System 

procedures for the integration and implementation of each system. Know how the 

systems integrate and support the incident. Be familiar with the overall operation of 

the two command systems and be able to assist in implementation of the Unified 

Command System if needed. The law enforcement officer should:

a. Know how to implement initial site management procedures following the department’s 

incident command system and emergency response plan. Such procedures include 

establishing communications with the dispatcher or command center, setting up the control 

zones for the scene, locating the command post, and forwarding any intelligence that has 

been collected on the scene. 

b. Be able to implement the Incident Command System component of the department’s 

emergency response plan for a potential WMD event. 

c. Be aware of the assets available from the department and from other local law enforcement 

agencies that could provide assistance on a potential WMD event scene. Know what 

procedures to follow to get these resources to the scene as needed. 

d. Be familiar with the assets that could be made available from other local emergency 

response organizations. Understand and follow department’s procedures for accessing 

these organizations for help with a potential WMD event. 

e. Understand the purpose and function of the Unified Command System. Know department 

procedures for assisting in implementation of the Unified Command System on the scene 

of a potential WMD event. 

f. Be able to assist in a critique of the actions taken during the complete response to a WMD 

event. Assist in documenting lessons learned from the critique as they pertain to law 

enforcement response activities. 

g. Understand the importance of and know how termination documentation for a WMD event 

is to be conducted related to law enforcement activities on the scene. 

h. Know and follow departmental guidelines in dealing with the local media during a potential 

WMD event. 

i. Know how to develop an Incident Action Plan in coordination with the on-scene incident 

commander. Ensure that the Incident Action Plan is consistent with the department’s 

emergency response plan. 

III. Know and follow self-protection measures and rescue and evacuation procedures for 

WMD events. The law enforcement officer should:

a. Know how and when to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) issued by the 

department to work in the warm zone on the scene of a potential WMD event. Fully 

understand the limitations of the PPE. Follow departmental policy for use, inspection, and 

maintenance of PPE. 

b. Understand the hazards and risks associated with wearing chemical protective clothing and 

other protective clothing at a potential WMD event. Understand and follow the 

rehabilitation steps to help responders reduce the level of heat stress. Know what other 

precautions to take to protect responders on the scene. 

c. Know how to determine the appropriate PPE for protecting officers who will be entering 

the warm zone on the scene of a potential WMD event. 

d. Know the protective measures that will be needed to protect victims and others on the 

scene of a potential WMD event. 
18

e. Know the department’s and the on-scene incident commander’s plan for evacuation of 

persons from the hazard area of a potential WMD event. 

f. Be able to assist in rescuing and in moving victims of a potential WMD event to a safe area 

for triage and treatment by emergency medical responders. 

g. Understand the role of the Performance Level A responder, as well as the role of other 

levels of response in the department’s emergency response plan. 

h. Know how to implement appropriate decontamination procedures for victims, responders, 

mass casualties, and equipment. Understand the importance of proper decontamination of 

equipment that will be reused. 

i. Know and follow departmental procedures and practices for handling and securing 

unknown suspicious packages. 

IV. Know and follow procedures for working at the scene of a potential WMD event. The 

law enforcement officer should: 

a. Know how to conduct a criminal investigation, protect and collect possible crime scene 

evidence, and follow department procedures for chain of custody, documentation, and 

security measures to store crime scene evidence whether or not it is contaminated. 

b. Implement the department’s emergency response plan scene security measures and 

procedures. These procedures include providing security for the command post and 

controlling or monitoring those entering and leaving the scene of a potential WMD event. 

c. Know how to implement appropriate on-the-scene decontamination procedures for 

protection of victims, the public, emergency responders, and others that may have been 

contaminated by agents or materials from a potential WMD event. 

d. Know how to implement basic life support procedures for protection and treatment of 

victims and others at the scene. 

e. Know how to implement procedures and measures for minimizing the spread of 

contamination of hazardous agents or materials to other locations and persons. 

f. Be trained in how to recognize a potential terrorist incident. Be able to help identify the 

potential agents or materials that may be present at a WMD event. 

g. Fully understand the role and jurisdiction of Federal agencies in a potential WMD event. 

Be able to coordinate and assist in the overall criminal investigation of the potential WMD 

event. Be aware of criminal laws, as well as privacy and security issues related to WMD 

events. 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL B [TECHNICIAN LEVEL] GUIDELINES FOR LAW 

ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS 

V. Have successfully completed training at the Awareness Level and Performance Level 

A for events involving hazardous materials, and for weapons of mass destruction 

(WMD) and other specialized training. The law enforcement officer should: 

a. Complete training (or have had equivalent training and experience) in and understand the 

guidelines for the law enforcement officer at the Awareness Level and Performance Level 

A Level for law enforcement. 

b. Know terms used or associated with WMD agents and with mechanical and nonmechanical equipment that will be used by the officer in the performance of specialized 

tasks or assignments. Some of this mechanical equipment would be used to remove and 
19

transport suspicious packages and/or potential bombs or explosives to a safe location or to 

a container. Other equipment may include robots used to remove a potential bomb or 

explosive device, sampling equipment to help determine WMD agents and materials, and 

PPE for shielding and transporting radioactive materials. 

c. Know how to conduct risk analysis and assessments for hazardous materials and WMD 

agents and materials for on-scene situations and for preplanning potential terrorist targets in 

the local community. 

d. Have experience in emergency medical basic life support treatment, rescue of victims and 

responders, triage, decontamination of persons and equipment, and transport of victims 

exposed to WMD agents. 

e. Participate with other local emergency response organizations in joint training exercises or 

drills involving selected specialized tasks or WMD mock agents. 

 

VI. Know and follow self-protection measures and rescue and evacuation procedures for 

WMD events. The law enforcement officer should:

a. Know how to select and use personal protective equipment (PPE) needed to work safely 

within the hot zone and warm zone on the scene of a potential WMD event. Fully 

understand the limitations of the PPE. Follow department policy on the use, inspection, 

and maintenance of PPE. 

b. Follow department’s safety procedures and practices for retrieving, handling, transporting, 

and disposing of unknown or suspicious packages. 

c. Understand the hazards and risks in using chemical protective clothing. Follow department 

precautions and safe practices to safeguard the wearer of the clothing as he/she performs 

assigned tasks. Understand and implement rehabilitation steps to help responders reduce 

the level of heat stress. Take other precautions to protect on-the-scene responders. 

d. Know how to develop a site safety and control plan (if qualified) in coordination with the 

incident commander. Assist in implementation of the Incident Action Plan on the scene. 

e. Have the requisite training and experience to serve as safety officer, if assigned by the 

incident commander. 

f. Be able to recognize types of WMD agents or materials. Know how to use and read results 

from diagnostic and sampling equipment and reading instruments. Understand the 

limitations of the detection or diagnostic instruments and devices provided by the 

department. 

g. Have training and experience in emergency medical basic life support treatment, rescue of 

contaminated victims and responders, selection of appropriate procedures for 

decontamination of persons and equipment, and in protection of personnel involved in 

transporting victims exposed to WMD agents. Assist the emergency medical group that is 

on the scene and the incident commander in coordinating this support. 

h. Have the training and experience to assist the incident commander in establishing safety 

procedures for performing specialized tasks to lower the level of hazard from the potential 

WMD agent or hazardous materials. Be able to perform such tasks if assigned. 

i. Know how to plan for and implement, in coordination with the emergency medical group, 

medical monitoring protocols for those persons entering the hot zone or warm zone as 

needed. 
20

VII. Know and follow procedures for performing specialized work at the scene of a 

potential WMD event. The law enforcement officer should: 

a. Know how to select appropriate PPE for the specialized task to be performed on the scene 

and to establish safety procedures and practices to be followed in the performance of the 

task. Use technical reference materials to help select the PPE appropriate for the task. 

Recognize that these activities will all be coordinated with the on-scene incident 

commander. 

b. Follow procedures for operating sampling equipment. Understand limitations for 

collecting solids (including particulate materials), liquids, and gases for detection, 

identification, and classification of potential WMD agents and materials and for 

verification of such materials if needed. Use technical reference materials as needed in 

performing these tasks. 

c. Know and follow procedures and practices for retrieval of contaminated evidence and for 

safe handling, transportation, and secure storage of such evidence. 

d. Be able to help mitigate on-scene hazards and risks to responders and the public. Assist the 

on-scene incident commander in developing and implementing strategies and tactics to 

reduce on-scene risks for responders and the public. Be able to recognize special threats, 

such as terrorists using exploding secondary devices to harm emergency responders. 

Follow procedures and practices for safely searching for these devices and, if found, 

controlling or removing these types of threats from the scene. 

e. Follow appropriate decontamination procedures to protect victims, emergency responders, 

the public, and equipment, including vehicles that will be reused. Coordinate 

decontamination procedures with the incident commander. 

f. Be able to implement the department’s emergency response plan, as well as the local and 

regional emergency response plan. Know how to access local assets to help with on-scene 

resolution of the WMD event. 

g. Coordinate implementation of the necessary medical monitoring protocols with the 

emergency medical manager and the incident commander for those responders entering and 

leaving the hot and warm zones. Be able to assist in implementation of rehabilitation 

assistance to those emergency responders that suffer from heat stress or other problems that 

can be controlled or reduced on the scene. 

 

VIII. Know and follow Incident Command System and Unified Command System 

procedures and steps required for implementation of each system. Understand how 

the two systems are to work together. The law enforcement officer should: 

a. Know how to implement the Incident Command System that the department has in its 

emergency response plan. Have the skill and knowledge to serve as the emergency 

operations officer for on-scene activities. 

b. Be aware of assets available from the department and from local and regional emergency 

response organizations, especially regarding handling specialized hazards or threats that 

may occur on the scene of a potential WMD event. Know how to obtain desired assets for 

on-the-scene support, if needed. 

c. Know and follow protocols for working and coordinating with other agencies under the 

Unified Command System to handle specialized hazards and threats on the scene of a 

potential WMD event. 
21

d. Understand and know how to implement termination procedures at the close of an 

emergency response incident. Be able to assist the incident commander in completing 

required documentation related to the termination procedures, including appropriate 

measures for cost recovery. 

e. Know how to conduct or assist in conducting a critique of the actions taken during the 

complete response to the WMD and/or hazardous materials event. Be able to assist the 

incident commander or designee in conducting the incident critique and in identifying 

lessons learned. Assist in determining what improvements need to be made before the next 

emergency response to a potential WMD event, especially improvements specific to law 

enforcement and special operations. 

f. Know how to coordinate the development of an Incident Action Plan with the on-scene 

incident commander that is consistent with the department and the local emergency 

response plan procedures and practices. Be able to implement the Incident Action Plan, 

including how to address special on-the-scene hazards. 

g. Recognize the importance of coordination with other agencies on the scene in gathering 

evidence and intelligence. Understand the importance of development and sharing of the 

latest intelligence that has been gathered from the scene, including information from 

special operations activities. Recognize that this information should be shared with the onscene incident commander (or designee, or the leadership team under the unified 

command) and the senior law enforcement leadership at the scene. 
22

B. Fire Service 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL FOR FIRE FIGHTERS FOR EVENTS INVOLVING 

WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL: This level is divided into two parts with a separate set of training 

guidelines for each part. The training guidelines for fire fighters at the performance level target 

fire fighters who will likely be responding to the scene of a hazardous materials event or a 

potential terrorist/criminal use of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) event. These fire fighters 

will conduct on-scene operations within the warm zone and/or the hot zone (if properly trained 

and equipped) that has been set up on the scene of a potential WMD or hazardous materials 

event to control and close out the incident. It is expected that fire fighters trained for 

Performance Level A will work in the warm zone and cold zone and support those fire fighters 

working in the hot zone. Fire fighters trained for Performance Level B will work in the hot zone, 

and in the other zones set up on the incident scene as needed. 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL A [OPERATIONS LEVEL] GUIDELINES FOR FIRE 

FIGHTERS: 

I. Have successfully completed adequate and proper training at the awareness level for 

events involving hazardous materials, and for weapons of mass destruction (WMD) 

and other specialized training. The fire fighter should: 

a. Complete training in (or have equivalent training and experience) and understand the 

guidelines at the awareness level for fire service. 

b. Understand the terminology (including any glossary of WMD terms), classes of materials 

and agents, and toxicology of hazardous materials and WMD agents and materials. 

c. Be aware of any potential targets for possible attack by persons using WMD agents or 

materials. Know preplans to be used in his/her department’s emergency response plan for 

these locations. 

d. Know how to collect and forward intelligence regarding potential terrorist/criminal actions 

involving possible WMD agents or materials. Be able to coordinate the gathering of such 

intelligence from a variety of sources and organizations that may be on the scene. Forward 

this information to the law enforcement manager or designee and the incident commander 

at the scene. 

e. Demonstrate skill and knowledge in preparing hazard and risk analysis of potential WMD 

targets in the local community. Know how to assess the potential for direct threats, as well 

as collateral damage effects. 

f. Participate in a joint training exercise or drill with other emergency response organizations 

that are expected to participate in responding to a potential WMD event in the local area. 

g. Recognize the special aspects of responding to a hazardous material or potential WMD 

event compared with more routine fire emergencies. Understand the special circumstances 

and properties of HazMat and WMD events compared with more routine fire emergencies. 
23

II. Know the Incident Command System and be able to follow Unified Command System 

procedures for integration and implementation of each system. Know how the 

systems integrate and support the incident. Be familiar with the overall operation of 

the two command systems and be able to assist in implementation of the Unified 

Command System if needed. The fire fighter should:

a. Know how to implement initial site management procedures following the department’s 

incident command system and emergency response plan. Such procedures include 

establishing communications with the dispatcher or command center, setting up the control 

zones for the scene, locating the command post, and forwarding any intelligence that has 

been collected on the scene. 

b. Be able to implement the Incident Command System component of the department’s 

emergency response plan for a potential WMD event. 

c. Be aware of the assets available from the department and from other local emergency 

response agencies that could provide assistance on a potential WMD event scene. Know 

what procedures to follow to get these resources to the scene as needed. 

d. Be familiar with the assets that could be made available from other local emergency 

response organizations. Understand and follow department’s procedures for accessing 

these organizations for help with a potential WMD event. 

e. Understand the purpose and function of the Unified Command System. Know department 

procedures for assisting in implementation of the Unified Command System on the scene 

of a potential WMD event. 

f. Be able to assist in a critique of the actions taken during the complete response to a WMD 

event. Assist in documenting lessons learned from the critique as they pertain to fire 

service response activities. 

g. Understand the importance of and know how termination documentation for a WMD event 

is to be conducted related to fire service activities on the scene. 

h. Know and follow departmental guidelines in dealing with the local media during a potential 

WMD event. 

i. Know how to develop an Incident Action Plan in coordination with the on-scene incident 

commander. Ensure that the Incident Action Plan is consistent with the department’s 

emergency response plan. 

III. Know and follow self-protection measures and rescue and evacuation procedures for 

WMD events. The fire fighter should: 

a. Know how and when to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) issued by the 

department to work in the warm zone on the scene of a potential WMD event. Fully 

understand the limitations of the PPE. Follow departmental policy for use, inspection, and 

maintenance of PPE. 

b. Understand the hazards and risks associated with wearing chemical protective clothing and 

other protective clothing at a potential WMD event. Understand and follow the 

rehabilitation steps to help responders reduce the level of heat stress. Know what other 

precautions to take to protect responders on the scene. 

c. Know how to determine the appropriate PPE for protecting fire fighters who will be 

entering the warm zone on the scene of a potential WMD event. 

d. Know the protective measures that will be needed to protect victims and others on the 

scene of a potential WMD event. 
24

e. Know the department’s and the on-scene incident commander’s plan for evacuation of 

persons (including casualties) from the hazard area of a potential WMD event. 

f. Be able to assist in rescuing and in moving victims of a potential WMD event to a safe area 

for triage and treatment by emergency medical responders. 

g. Understand the role of the Performance Level A responder, as well as the role of other 

levels of response, in the department’s emergency response plan. 

h. Know how to implement appropriate decontamination procedures for victims, responders, 

mass casualties, and equipment. Understand the importance of proper decontamination of 

equipment that will be reused. 

i. Know and follow departmental procedures and practices for requesting assistance from law 

enforcement in handling and securing unknown suspicious packages. 

IV. Know and follow procedures for working at the scene of a potential WMD event. The 

fire fighter should: 

a. Understand the importance of procedures in how to conduct a criminal investigation, such 

as a suspected arson incident, and in protecting possible crime scene evidence. 

b. Implement and coordinate with law enforcement the department’s emergency response 

plan scene security measures and procedures. These procedures include providing security 

for the command post and controlling or monitoring those entering and leaving the scene of 

a potential WMD event. 

c. Know how to implement appropriate on-the-scene decontamination procedures for 

protection of victims, the public, emergency responders, and others that may have been 

contaminated by agents or materials from a potential WMD event. 

d. Know how to implement basic life support procedures for protection and treatment of 

victims and others at the scene. 

e. Know how to implement procedures and measures for minimizing the spread of 

contamination of hazardous agents or materials to other locations and persons. 

f. Be trained in how to recognize a potential terrorist incident. Be able to help identify the 

potential agents or materials that may be present at a WMD event. 

g. Fully understand the role and jurisdiction of Federal agencies in a potential WMD event. 

Be able to coordinate and assist in the overall criminal investigation of the potential WMD 

event. 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL B [TECHNICIAN LEVEL] GUIDELINES FOR FIRE 

FIGHTERS: 

V. Have successfully completed training at the Awareness Level and Performance Level 

A for events involving hazardous materials, and for weapons of mass destruction 

(WMD) and other specialized training. The fire fighter should: 

a. Complete training (or have had equivalent training and experience) in and understand the 

guidelines for the fire fighter at the Awareness Level and Performance Level A Level for 

fire fighters. 

b. Know terms used or associated with WMD agents and with mechanical and nonmechanical equipment that will be used by the fire fighter in the performance of specialized 

tasks or assignments. Some of this equipment will include sampling equipment to help 
25

determine WMD agents and materials, PPE, and equipment used in plugging and patching 

containers leaking potentially dangerous materials. 

c. Know how to conduct risk analysis and assessments for hazardous materials and WMD 

agents and materials for on-scene situations and for preplanning potential terrorist targets in 

the local community. 

d. Have experience in emergency medical basic life support treatment, rescue of victims and 

responders, triage, decontamination of persons and equipment, and transport of victims 

(including mass casualties) exposed to WMD agents. 

e. Participate with other local emergency response organizations in joint training exercises or 

drills involving selected specialized tasks or WMD mock agents. 

 

VI. Know and follow self-protection measures and rescue and evacuation procedures for 

WMD events. The fire fighter should: 

a. Know how to select and use PPE needed to work safely within the hot zone and warm zone 

on the scene of a potential WMD event. Fully understand the limitations of the PPE. 

Follow department policy on the use, inspection, and maintenance of PPE. 

b. Know and follow State environmental department safety procedures and practices for 

retrieving, handling, transporting, and disposing of hazardous material or WMD agent. 

c. Understand the hazards and risks in using chemical protective clothing. Follow department 

precautions and safe practices to safeguard the wearer of the clothing as he/she performs 

assigned tasks. Understand and implement rehabilitation steps to help responders reduce 

the level of heat stress. Take other precautions to protect on-the-scene responders. 

d. Know how to develop a site safety and control plan (if qualified) in coordination with the 

incident commander. Assist in implementation of the Incident Action Plan on the scene. 

e. Have the requisite training and experience to serve as safety officer, if assigned by the 

incident commander. 

f. Know how to use and read results from diagnostic and sampling equipment and reading 

instruments. Understand the limitations of the detection or diagnostic instruments and 

devices provided by the department. 

g. Have training and experience in emergency medical basic life support treatment, rescue of 

contaminated victims and responders, selection of appropriate procedures for 

decontamination of persons and equipment, and protection of personnel involved in 

transporting victims exposed to WMD agents. 

h. Have the training and experience to assist the incident commander in establishing safety 

procedures for performing specialized tasks to lower the level of hazard from the potential 

WMD agent or hazardous materials. Be able to perform such tasks if assigned. 

i. Know how to plan for and implement, in coordination with the emergency medical group, 

medical monitoring protocols for those persons entering the hot zone or warm zone as 

needed. 

VII. Know and follow procedures for performing specialized work at the scene of a 

potential WMD event. The fire fighter should: 

a. Know how to select appropriate PPE for the specialized task to be performed on the scene 

and to establish safety procedures and practices to be followed in the performance of the 

task. Use technical reference materials to help select the PPE appropriate for the task. 
26

Recognize that these activities will all be coordinated with the on-scene incident 

commander. 

b. Follow procedures for operating sampling equipment. Understand limitations for 

collecting solids (including particulate materials), liquids, and gases for detection, 

identification, and classification of potential WMD agents and materials and for 

verification of such materials if needed. Use technical reference materials as needed in 

performing these tasks. 

c. Know and follow procedures and practices for retrieval of contaminated evidence and for 

safe handling, transportation, and secure storage of such evidence. 

d. Be able to help mitigate on-scene hazards and risks to responders and the public. Assist the 

on-scene incident commander in developing and implementing strategies and tactics to 

reduce on-scene risks for responders and the public. Be able to recognize special threats, 

such as terrorists using exploding secondary devices to harm emergency responders. 

Follow procedures and practices for safely searching for these devices and, if found, 

controlling or removing these types of threats from the scene. 

e. Follow appropriate decontamination procedures to protect victims, emergency responders, 

the public, and equipment, including vehicles that will be reused. Coordinate 

decontamination procedures with the incident commander. 

f. Be able to implement the department’s emergency response plan, as well as the local and 

regional emergency response plan. Know how to access local assets to help with on-scene 

resolution of the WMD event. 

g. Coordinate implementation of the necessary medical monitoring protocols with the 

emergency medical manager and the incident commander for those responders entering and 

leaving the hot and warm zones. Be able to assist in implementation of rehabilitation 

assistance to those emergency responders that suffer from heat stress or other problems that 

can be controlled or reduced on the scene. 

 

VIII. Know and follow Incident Command System and Unified Command System 

procedures and steps required for implementation of each system. Understand how 

the two systems are to work together. The fire fighter should: 

a. Know how to implement the Incident Command System that the department has in its 

emergency response plan. Have the skill and knowledge to serve as the emergency 

operations officer for on-scene activities. 

b. Be aware of assets available from the department and from local and regional emergency 

response organizations, especially regarding handling specialized hazards or threats that 

may occur on the scene of a potential WMD event. Know how to obtain desired assets for 

on-the-scene support, if needed. 

c. Know and follow protocols for working and coordinating with other agencies under the 

Unified Command System to handle specialized hazards and threats on the scene of a 

potential WMD event. 

d. Understand and know how to implement termination procedures at the close of an 

emergency response incident. Be able to assist the incident commander in completing 

required documentation related to the termination procedures, including appropriate 

measures for cost recovery. 

e. Know how to conduct or assist in conducting a critique of the actions taken during the 

complete response to the WMD and/or hazardous materials event. Be able to assist the 
27

incident commander or designee in conducting the incident critique and in identifying 

lessons learned. Assist in determining what improvements need to be made before the next 

emergency response to a potential WMD event, especially improvements specific to fire 

service and special operations. 

f. Know how to coordinate the development of an Incident Action Plan with the on-scene 

incident commander that is consistent with the department and the local emergency 

response plan procedures and practices. Be able to implement the Incident Action Plan, 

including how to address special on-the-scene hazards. 

g. Recognize the importance of coordination with other agencies on the scene in gathering 

evidence and intelligence. Understand the importance of development and sharing of the 

latest intelligence that has been gathered from the scene, including information from 

special operations activities. Recognize that this information should be shared with the onscene incident commander (or designee or the leadership team under the unified command) 

and the senior law enforcement leadership at the scene. 
28

C. Emergency Medical Services 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES FOR EVENTS 

INVOLVING WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL: This level is divided into two parts with a separate set of training 

guidelines for each part. The training guidelines for emergency medical services (EMS) 

providers at the performance level target personnel who will likely be responding to the scene of 

a hazardous materials event or a potential terrorist/criminal use of weapons of mass destruction 

(WMD) event. These EMS responders will conduct on-scene operations within the warm zone 

and cold zone that have been set up on the scene of a potential WMD or hazardous materials 

event. They are expected to provide emergency medical assistance and treatment to the victims 

and support those involved in the control and mitigation of the on-scene hazards and to assist in 

bringing the incident to a successful conclusion. EMS responders trained for Performance Level 

A will work in the warm and cold zones and support the other emergency responders in any of 

the three zones. EMS responders trained for Performance Level B will supervise or serve as 

team leaders for EMS groups given various assignments by the incident commander or incident 

management team under the unified command system. Performance Level B EMS responders 

will work in the warm and cold zones, but they will have some special training in rescuing or 

assisting in rescuing victims in the hot zone. Hot zone rescue efforts will be coordinated with the 

fire service and HazMat responders. 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL A [MEDICS] GUIDELINES FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL 

SERVICES RESPONDERS:

I. Have successfully completed adequate and proper training at the awareness level for 

events involving hazardous materials, for weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and 

other specialized training. The EMS responder should: 

a. Complete training in (or have equivalent training and experience) and understand the 

guidelines at the awareness level for EMS responders. 

b. Understand the terminology (including any glossary of WMD and associated medical 

terms), classes of materials and agents, and toxicology of hazardous materials and WMD 

agents and materials. 

c. Be aware of any potential targets for possible attack by persons using WMD agents or 

materials. Know preplans to be used in his/her department’s emergency response plan for 

these locations. 

d. Know how to collect and forward intelligence regarding potential terrorist/criminal actions 

involving possible WMD agents or materials. Be able to coordinate the gathering of such 

intelligence from victims and others that may be on the scene. Forward this information to 

the EMS manager or designee and the incident commander at the scene. 

e. Demonstrate skill and knowledge in preparing hazard and risk analysis of potential WMD 

targets in the local community. Be familiar with preplans for emergency response to these 

sites. 
29

f. Participate in a joint training exercise or drill with other emergency response organizations 

that are expected to participate in responding to a potential WMD event in the local area. 

g. Recognize the special aspects of responding to a hazardous material or potential WMD 

event. Be alert to signs and symptoms that may be exhibited by victims. Know and follow 

emergency medical protocols for treating these victims. 

II. Know the Incident Command System and be able to follow Unified Command System 

procedures for integration and implementation of each system. Know how the 

systems integrate and support the incident. Be familiar with the overall operation of 

the two command systems and be able to assist in implementation of the Unified 

Command System if needed. The EMS responder should: 

a. Know how to implement initial site management procedures following the department’s 

incident command system and emergency response plan. Such procedures include 

establishing communications with the dispatcher or command center, establishing triage 

areas, coordinating with law enforcement and other agencies transportation of victims 

needing additional medical treatment, establishing the EMS manager at the command post, 

and forwarding any intelligence or observations collected on the scene. 

b. Be able to implement the Incident Command System component of the department’s 

emergency response plan for a potential WMD or hazardous materials event. 

c. Be aware of medical assets available from the department and from other emergency 

response agencies that could provide assistance on a potential WMD event scene. Know 

what procedures to follow to get these resources to the scene as needed. 

d. Be familiar with emergency medical assets that could be made available from other local 

emergency response organizations. Understand and follow the department’s procedures for 

accessing these organizations for help with a potential WMD event. 

e. Understand the purpose and function of the Unified Command System. Know department 

procedures for assisting in implementation of the Unified Command System on the scene 

of a potential WMD event. 

f. Be able to assist in a critique of the actions taken during the complete response to a WMD 

event. Assist in documenting lessons learned from the critique as they pertain to EMS 

response activities. 

g. Understand the importance of and know how to assist senior EMS responders in 

termination documentation for a WMD event related to EMS activities on the scene. 

h. Know and follow departmental guidelines in dealing with the local media during a potential 

WMD event. 

i. Know how to develop an Incident Action Plan in coordination with the on-scene incident 

commander. Ensure that the Incident Action Plan is consistent with the department’s 

emergency response plan. 

III. Know and follow self-protection measures and rescue and evacuation procedures for 

WMD events. The EMS responder should: 

a. Know how and when to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) issued by the 

department to work in the warm zone on the scene of a potential WMD event. Fully 

understand the limitations of the PPE. Follow departmental policy for use, inspection, and 

maintenance of PPE. 
30

b. Understand the hazards and risks associated with wearing chemical protective clothing and 

other protective clothing at a potential WMD event. Understand and follow the 

rehabilitation steps to help responders reduce the level of heat stress. Know what other 

precautions to take to protect responders on the scene. 

c. Know how to determine the appropriate PPE for protecting EMS responders who will be 

entering the warm zone on the scene of a potential WMD event. Appropriate PPE likely 

will include gear to protect the responder against any infectious agents, such as bloodborne pathogens that victims may have. 

d. Know the protective measures that will be needed to protect victims and others on the 

scene of a potential WMD event. 

e. Know the department’s and the on-scene incident commander’s plan for evacuation of 

persons (including casualties) from the hazard area of a potential WMD event. 

f. Be able to assist in rescuing and in moving victims of a potential WMD event (including 

casualties) to a safe area for triage and treatment. 

g. Understand the role of the Performance Level A responder, as well as the role of other 

levels of response, in the department’s emergency response plan. 

h. Know how to implement appropriate decontamination procedures for victims, responders, 

mass casualties, and equipment. Understand the importance of proper decontamination of 

equipment that will be reused. 

i. Know and follow departmental procedures and practices for requesting assistance from law 

enforcement in handling and securing unknown suspicious packages. 

IV. Know and follow procedures for working at the scene of a potential WMD event. The 

EMS responder should: 

a. Understand the importance of procedures used by law enforcement in conducting a 

criminal investigation and in protecting possible crime scene evidence without endangering 

others. 

b. Implement and coordinate with law enforcement the department’s emergency response 

plan scene security measures and procedures. These procedures include providing security 

for the command post and controlling or monitoring those entering and leaving the scene of 

a potential WMD event. Follow the traffic control plan implemented by the on-scene 

incident commander. 

c. Know how to implement appropriate on-the-scene decontamination procedures for 

protection of victims, the public, emergency responders, and others that may have been 

contaminated by agents or materials from a potential WMD event. 

d. Know how to implement basic life support procedures for protection and treatment of 

victims, responders, and others at the scene. 

e. Know how to implement procedures and measures for minimizing the spread of 

contamination of hazardous agents or materials to other locations and persons. 

f. Be trained in how to recognize a potential terrorist incident. Be able to identify the 

potential agents or materials that may be present at a WMD event. 

g. Fully understand the role and jurisdiction of Federal agencies in a potential WMD event. 

Be able to coordinate and assist in the overall criminal investigation of the potential WMD 

event. 
31

PERFORMANCE LEVEL B [TACTICAL EMS/MEDICS LEVEL] GUIDELINES FOR 

EMS RESPONDERS 

V. Have successfully completed training at the Awareness Level and Performance Level 

A for events involving hazardous materials, and for weapons of mass destruction 

(WMD) and other specialized training. The EMS responder should: 

a. Complete training (or have had equivalent training and experience) in and understand the 

guidelines for the EMS responder at the Awareness Level and Performance Level A Level. 

b. Know terms used or associated with WMD agents and with equipment that will be used by 

the EMS responder in the performance of specialized rescue tasks or assignments. This 

equipment will include PPE and medical materials used in rescue efforts in the hot zone. 

c. Know how to conduct risk analysis and assessments for hazardous materials and WMD 

agents and materials for on-scene situations and for preplanning potential terrorist targets in 

the local community. Be able to provide expertise in assessing potential for mass 

casualties. 

d. Have experience in emergency medical basic and advanced life support treatment, rescue 

of victims and responders, triage, decontamination of persons and equipment, and transport 

of victims (including mass casualties) exposed to WMD agents. 

e. Participate with other local emergency response organizations in joint training exercises or 

drills involving selected specialized tasks or WMD mock agents. 

 

VI. Know and follow self-protection measures and rescue and evacuation procedures for 

WMD events. The EMS responder should: 

a. Know how to select and use PPE needed to work safely within the hot zone and warm zone 

on the scene of a potential WMD event. Fully understand the limitations of the PPE. 

Follow department policy on the use, inspection, and maintenance of PPE. 

b. Know and follow safety procedures and practices for retrieving, handling, and transporting 

contaminated victims of a WMD event. 

c. Understand the hazards and risks in using chemical protective clothing. Follow department 

precautions and safe practices to safeguard the wearer of the clothing as he/she performs 

assigned tasks. Understand and implement rehabilitation steps to help responders reduce 

the level of heat stress. Take other precautions to protect on-the-scene responders. 

d. Know how to develop a site safety and control plan (if qualified) in coordination with the 

incident commander. Assist in implementation of the Incident Action Plan on the scene. 

e. Have the requisite training and experience to serve as safety officer to cover EMS 

responder work areas, if assigned by the incident commander. 

f. Know how to use and read results from medical diagnostic and sampling equipment and 

reading instruments. Be able to recognize the types of hazardous materials or WMD agents 

that may be present on victims. 

g. Have training and experience in providing emergency medical basic life support treatment, 

rescuing contaminated victims and responders, selecting appropriate procedures for 

decontamination of persons and equipment, and protecting personnel involved in 

transporting victims exposed to WMD agents. 

h. Have the training and experience to assist the incident commander in establishing safety 

procedures for performing specialized rescue tasks. Be able to perform such tasks if 

assigned. 
32

i. Know how to plan for and implement, in coordination with HazMat and fire personnel, 

medical monitoring protocols for those persons entering the hot zone or warm zone as 

needed. These plans will include recording vital signs of personnel before entry and upon 

leaving the hot or warm zones, as well as monitoring vital signs of rescue personnel at 

other designated times. 

VII. Know and follow procedures for performing specialized work at the scene of potential 

WMD event. The EMS responder should: 

a. Know how to select appropriate PPE for the specialized rescue and other tasks to be 

performed on the scene and to establish safety procedures and practices to be followed in 

the performance of the task. Use technical reference materials to help select the PPE 

appropriate for the task. Recognize that these activities will all be coordinated with the onscene incident commander. 

b. Know how to use medical diagnostic and treatment for victims and others at the scene. Use 

technical reference materials as needed. 

c. Know how to assist public health authorities in implementing antibiotic treatment for 

persons contaminated by a biological hazard. 

d. Be able to help mitigate on-scene hazards and risks to victims, responders, and the public. 

Assist the operations officer and on-scene incident commander in developing and 

implementing strategies and tactics to reduce risks to responders and the public. Be able to 

recognize the need for special treatment for victims and the public, and assist the public 

health service personnel in implementing appropriate medical treatment. 

e. Establish appropriate decontamination procedures to protect victims, emergency 

responders, the public, and equipment, including vehicles that will be reused. Coordinate 

decontamination procedures with the operations officer and the incident commander. 

f. Be able to implement the department’s emergency response plan as well as the local and 

regional emergency response plan. Know how to access local assets to help with on-scene 

emergency medical assistance. Coordinate these activities with the operations officer and 

on-scene incident commander. 

g. Assist in implementing medical monitoring protocols and any special medical procedures 

for responders entering and leaving the hot and warm zones because WMD agents have 

been found at the scene. Coordinate medical monitoring with the emergency medical 

manager and the incident commander. Assist in implementing rehabilitation assistance to 

emergency responders suffering from heat stress or other problems that can be controlled at 

the scene. 

 

VIII. Know and follow Incident Command System and Unified Command System 

procedures and steps required for implementation of each system. Understand how 

the two systems are to work together. The EMS responder should: 

a. Know how to implement the Incident Command System that the department has in its 

emergency response plan. Have the skill and knowledge to serve as the emergency 

operations officer for on-scene activities. 

b. Be aware of assets available from regional, State, and Federal sources pertaining to 

handling EMS response and public health needs on the scene of a potential WMD event. 

Know how to coordinate with the operations officer and the incident commander requests 

for desired assets for on-the-scene support, if needed. 
33

c. Know and follow protocols for working and coordinating with other agencies under the 

Unified Command System to handle specialized medical needs on the scene of a potential 

WMD event. 

d. Understand and know how to implement termination procedures at the close of an 

emergency response incident. Be able to assist the incident commander in completing 

required documentation related to the termination procedures involving EMS and public 

health activities. 

e. Know how to conduct or assist in conducting a critique of the actions taken during the 

complete response to the WMD and/or hazardous materials event. Be able to assist the 

incident commander or designee in conducting the incident critique and in documenting 

lessons learned. Assist in determining what improvements need to be made before the next 

emergency response to a potential WMD event, especially improvements specific to EMS 

support. 

f. Know how to coordinate the development of an Incident Action Plan with the on-scene 

incident commander that is consistent with the department and the local emergency 

response plan procedures and practices. Be able to implement the Incident Action Plan for 

on-the-scene EMS activities. 

g. Recognize the importance of coordination with other agencies on the scene in gathering 

evidence and intelligence. Understand the importance of development and sharing of the 

latest intelligence that has been gathered from the scene, including signs, symptoms, and 

treatment, as well as information from interviews with victims and other potentially 

contaminated individuals. Recognize that this information should be shared with the 

emergency medical manager, the on-scene incident commander (or designee, or the 

leadership team under the unified command), and the senior law enforcement leadership at 

the scene. 
34

D. Hazardous Materials 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL FOR HAZMAT RESPONDERS FOR EVENTS 

INVOLVING WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL: This performance level will be a single tier of training guidelines 

for hazardous materials (HazMat) emergency responders. These guidelines at the performance 

level target those emergency responders who will be responding to the scene of a hazardous 

materials or potential terrorist/criminal use of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) event. 

These HazMat responders will conduct on-scene operations within the hot and warm zones that 

have been established at the scene of a potential WMD or hazardous materials event. These 

personnel may also work in the cold zone as needed. These HazMat responders will likely be 

involved controlling and mitigating hazards found on the scene and in bringing the incident to a 

successful conclusion under the direction of an operations officer and the on-scene incident 

commander. 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL [TECHNICIAN] GUIDELINES FOR HAZMAT 

RESPONDERS: 

I. Have successfully completed training at the Awareness Level and Performance Level 

A for events involving hazardous materials, and for WMD and other specialized 

training. The HazMat responder should: 

a. Complete training in (or have equivalent training and experience) and understand the 

guidelines at the Performance Level A. 

b. Understand the terminology (including any glossary of WMD terms, chemical reference 

manuals, equipment manuals), classes of materials and agents, and toxicology of hazardous 

materials and WMD agents, and of the equipment likely to be used by HazMat responders. 

c. Be aware of any potential targets for possible attack by persons using WMD agents or 

HazMat materials. Know preplans to be used in his/her department’s emergency response 

plan for these locations. 

d. Know how to collect and forward intelligence regarding potential terrorist/criminal actions 

involving possible WMD agents or hazardous materials. Be able to coordinate the 

gathering of such intelligence from various sources that may be on the scene. Forward this 

information to the HazMat manager and the incident commander (or designee) at the scene. 

e. Demonstrate skill and knowledge in preparing hazard and risk analysis of potential WMD 

targets in the local community. Be able to assess the potential for direct threats and 

collateral damage, including effect of flammable fuels, explosive materials, and mass 

casualties. Be able to coordinate with other agencies how best to use available resources in 

developing preplans for potential attacks using WMD agents. 

f. Participate in a joint training exercise or drill with other emergency response organizations 

that are expected to participate in responding to a potential WMD event in the local area. 

g. Recognize the dangers and aspects inherent in hazardous materials or WMD events. 
35

h. Be able to provide emergency medical basic life support treatment, rescue victims and 

responders, triage, decontaminate people and equipment, and assist in safely moving 

WMD-exposed victims. 

II. Know the Incident Command System and be able to follow Unified Command System 

procedures for integration and implementation of each system. Know how the 

systems integrate and support the incident. Be familiar with the overall operation of 

the two command systems and be able to assist in implementation of the Unified 

Command System if needed. The HazMat responder should: 

a. Know how to implement the Incident Command System following the department’s 

incident command system and emergency response plan. Have the expertise and 

experience to serve as the operations officer. 

b. Be able to identify department, local, regional, and State assets that are relevant to the 

HazMat response team. 

c. Know and follow protocols, procedures, and practices for working with and coordinating 

assignments with other agencies under the Unified Command System. 

d. Understand the purpose and function of the Unified Command System. Know department 

procedures for assisting in implementation of the Unified Command System on the scene 

of a potential WMD event. 

e. Be able to conduct or assist in conducting a critique of the actions taken during the 

complete response to a WMD event. Assist in documenting lessons learned from the 

critique as they pertain to HazMat response activities. Assist in identifying what 

improvements need to be made by the HazMat response team before the next HazMat or 

WMD event. 

f. Understand the importance of and know how to implement termination procedures at the 

close of an emergency response to a WMD or hazardous materials event. Be able to assist 

the incident commander in completing required documentation related to the termination 

procedures, including measures for cost recovery. 

g. Know and follow departmental guidelines in dealing with the local media during a potential 

WMD event. 

h. Know how to develop an Incident Action Plan in coordination with the on-scene incident 

commander or leadership team under the Unified Command System. Ensure that the 

Incident Action Plan is consistent with the department’s emergency response plan. 

III. Know and follow self-protection measures and rescue and evacuation procedures for 

WMD events. The HazMat responder should: 

a. Know how and when to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) issued by the 

department to work in the hot and warm zones on the scene of a potential WMD event. Be 

able to select appropriate PPE for the hazards present. Use reference manuals to assist in 

selecting appropriate PPE. Fully understand the limitations of the PPE. Follow 

departmental policy for use, inspection, and maintenance of PPE. 

b. Know and follow safety procedures for HazMat responders or hazardous waste contractors 

in retrieving, handling, packaging, and transporting hazardous materials or WMD agents to 

a predetermined waste disposal site. Coordinate these activities with law enforcement 

personnel and the on-scene incident commander. 
36

c. Be able to determine (or assist in determining) critical factors for site clean up by a 

hazardous waste contractor after resolution of the emergency. Follow State environmental 

procedures for site clean up and waste disposal. 

d. Know and follow measures for protecting victims and other individuals from hazardous 

materials or WMD agents, including secondary devices. Coordinate implementation of onscene precautions with law enforcement personnel and the incident commander. 

e. Be familiar with the department’s and on-scene commander’s evacuation plan, including 

traffic control. Assist in coordinating evacuation plans with law enforcement personnel 

and the incident commander. 

f. Know how to rescue victims of a potential WMD or hazardous materials event. Follow 

procedures for moving victims to a safe area for triage and treatment. 

g. Know how to use diagnostic and sampling equipment. Understand how to read results and 

calibrate direct reading instruments. Be aware of the limitations of diagnostic or detection 

equipment. Be able to recognize the types of hazardous materials and WMD agents. 

Follow procedures for sharing this information. 

h. Understand the hazards and risks associated with wearing chemical protective clothing and 

other protective clothing at a potential WMD event. Understand and follow the 

rehabilitation steps to help responders reduce the level of heat stress. Know what other 

precautions to take to protect responders on the scene. 

i. Understand the importance of and know how to implement appropriate decontamination 

procedures for victims, responders, mass casualties, and equipment that will be reused. 

Use reference manuals as needed. 

j. Follow departmental procedures for requesting law enforcement assistance in handling and 

securing suspicious packages. 

k. Be able to serve as safety officer if assigned. 

l. Know how to coordinate with EMS protocols for medical monitoring of emergency 

responders and other persons entering and leaving the hot and warm zones. 

m. Know how to develop a site safety and control plan in coordination with the incident 

commander. Assist in implementing the plan if requested by the incident commander. 

IV. Know and follow procedures for working at the scene of a potential WMD event. The 

HazMat responder should: 

a. Know how to implement safety procedures, including selecting appropriate PPE for 

specialized on-scene tasks or work assignments. These assignments likely will involve 

mitigation and control procedures for leaking, spilled, or damaged containers of hazardous 

materials or WMD agents or rescue of non-ambulatory victims in the hot zone. 

b. Understand the importance of procedures used by law enforcement in conducting a 

criminal investigation, in coordinating gathering of evidence with law enforcement, sharing 

intelligence, and observing chain of custody in protecting crime scene evidence. 

c. Be able to work with law enforcement to gather evidence in the hot zone following scene 

security measures and safety procedures in coordination with the incident commander. 

d. Coordinate with the on-scene incident commander strategies to mitigate on-scene hazards 

that could endanger emergency responders or the public. 

e. Coordinate with the incident commander the development and implementation of an 

Incident Action Plan to protect and treat victims and to control and mitigate on-scene 

hazards. 
37

f. Implement appropriate procedures and measures including plume modeling for minimizing 

the spread of contamination of hazardous agents or materials to other locations and persons 

on the scene of a potential WMD or hazardous materials event. 

g. Be able to recognize a potential terrorist incident and help identify the potential agents or 

materials that may be present at a WMD or hazardous materials event. Follow procedures 

for sharing intelligence with law enforcement and the incident commander. 

h. Understand fully the role and jurisdictions of Federal agencies. Coordinate and assist in 

conducting a criminal investigation of the potential WMD event. 

i. Know the methods, limitations, and operating procedures for sampling equipment use to 

collect solids (including particulate materials), liquids, and gases for detection, 

identification, classification, and verification of hazardous materials and WMD agents. 

Use technical reference materials as needed. 
38

E. Public Works 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL FOR PUBLIC WORKS PERSONNEL FOR EVENTS 

INVOLVING WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL: This Performance Level addresses training requirements for all 

non-operational employees; line personnel and operations supervisors; planners, engineers, and 

lab technicians; and superintendent/agency directors employed by public works facilities. These 

personnel will be involved in a community response to a WMD incident, particularly an incident 

affecting wastewater treatment or water operations, which may represent WMD targets. It is 

assumed that non-public works personnel will comprise emergency responders. Therefore, 

training requirements associated with any Federal or State contingency planning and 

preparedness requirements for responding to such an incident are not considered. 

PERFORMANCE LEVEL A [OPERATIONS LEVEL] GUIDELINES FOR PUBLIC 

WORKS PERSONNEL: 

I. Performance level training—General line operations personnel and supervisors. 

Have successfully completed additional training beyond awareness level to be able to 

provide skilled support services in the event of a WMD attack targeting a public 

works facility. Personnel completing specific performance-level training should: 

a. Recognize the characteristics and threats posed by a WMD agent. 

b. Understand the potential impact and consequences of use of various WMD agents on 

public works facilities. 

c. Be familiar with the WMD incident response plan. Understand his/her role in that plan. 

d. Understand the importance of proper decontamination in a WMD incident. Be able to 

implement public works facility decontamination procedures. 

e. Understand his/her role as a member of a WMD response team either as a skilled support 

person or specialist. 

f. Participate in and contribute to the WMD vulnerability assessment for the public works 

organization. 

g. Be able to recognize, safely handle, and properly secure potential WMD agents as crime 

scene evidence. 

II. Performance level training—Planners, engineers, and lab technicians. Have 

successfully completed additional training to effectively respond to a WMD incident 

either within a public works facility or within the community. Planners, engineers, and 

lab technicians should: 

a. Be able to identify and avoid WMD devices and follow appropriate procedures when such 

a device is suspected. 

b. Recognize the characteristics and threats posed by a potential WMD agent. Follow 

organization procedures, including decontamination protocols, for responding to a potential 

WMD. 

c. Be able to conduct a vulnerability assessment of public works operations. 
39

d. Understand his/her role in the public works facility’s continuity of services contingency 

plan. 

e. Understand the role of public works in the WMD incident response plan. 

f. Understand his/her role and responsibilities as a member of the incidence response team. 
40

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL GUIDELINES 

A. Law Enforcement 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 

OFFICIALS FOR EVENTS INVOLVING WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL: Addresses training requirements for law 

enforcement officials who are expected to be part of the leadership and management team that 

likely will respond to an event involving the terrorist/criminal use of weapons of mass 

destruction (WMD). At the very least, law enforcement managers will be involved in onsite 

planning for and managing scene security services. They will help set up the crime scene 

investigation and evidence gathering that will be coordinated with the command post at the 

scene. These personnel are expected to manage onsite law enforcement resources and assist the 

incident commander in bringing the event to a successful conclusion. Generally, all of the 

actions to be taken by these law enforcement managers should be conducted from within the cold 

zone. As access is provided to law enforcement officers to conduct their potential crime scene 

investigation, there may be times for the law enforcement managers to come within the warm 

zone. It is expected that law enforcement managers will be integrated into the overall command 

structure that is implemented for the management and supervision of resources and assets being 

deployed to mitigate and recover from the overall WMD emergency event. 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL GUIDELINES FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT 

MANAGERS: 

I. Have successfully completed training in awareness, performance, and management 

levels for events involving hazardous materials and for WMD. The law enforcement 

manager should: 

 

a. Complete training in (or have had equivalent training and relevant experience) and 

understand the standard performance guidelines for emergency medical providers at the 

Awareness Level and at Performance Level A. 

b. Know how to implement the department Incident Command System and relevant portions 

of the department’s emergency response plan. 

c. Recognize the hazards, risks, and limitations associated with using chemical protective 

clothing and equipment. 

d. Be able to implement local and regional emergency response plans in a WMD or 

hazardous materials event. 

e. Understand the roles of law enforcement personnel in the State emergency response plan. 

Be familiar with the assets available for implementing the State plan in a WMD event. 

f. Know what Federal assets and assistance may be available to help in handling a WMD or 

hazardous materials event. 

g. Understand the importance of implementing appropriate decontamination procedures in a 

hazardous materials and WMD event. Be able to implement these procedures to protect 
41

emergency responders, victims, and public safety personnel, and for equipment that will 

be reused. 

II. Know Incident Command System and the Unified Command System’s procedures 

and the steps required for implementation of each system. Understand how the 

systems are integrated and implemented to work together and what information the 

on-scene manager needs from the law enforcement manager. Be familiar with the full 

range of incident command functions, and be able to fulfill any functions related to 

law enforcement operations. The law enforcement manager should: 

a. Know how to manage any one of the five basic functions for operating the department’s 

Incident Command System. Be able to assess the need for additional resources and obtain 

these resources from identified assets. 

b. Understand Emergency Operations Center (EOC) responsibilities. Be able to interface and 

coordinate with them. 

c. Understand the applications and interfaces of the Unified Command System with the 

Incident Command System. Know methods and practices used to implement the Unified 

Command System on the scene of a WMD or hazardous materials event. 

d. Be able to assist the incident commander in completing all termination documentation for 

the event as they relate to law enforcement operations rendered at the scene. 

e. Know how to conduct or assist in conducting a critique of actions taken during the 

complete response to the WMD and/or hazardous materials event. Be able to develop 

lessons learned. Draft and implement appropriate strategies to determine what 

improvements relevant to law enforcement operations need to be made based on lessons 

learned. 

f. Know how to develop a media-management plan for a potential WMD or hazardous 

materials event in coordination with the on-scene incident commander. 

g. Be able to manage law enforcement group activities under the Unified Command and 

Incident Command Systems. Be able to assist the on-scene commander or leadership team 

in charge of successfully concluding the WMD or hazardous materials event. 

h. Be able to advise the incident commander or management team on the latest intelligence 

information and local law enforcement procedures and practices. This support includes 

knowing how to use available resources to determine whether or not the event is potentially 

a terrorist act and advising the incident commander of these findings. 

III. Know protocols to secure and retain control of the emergency scene and to allow only 

authorized persons involved with the emergency incident to gain access to the scene of 

WMD agents and/or hazardous materials. The law enforcement manager should: 

a. Understand what assets and resources are available from the department’s emergency 

response plan (and from the local and regional response plans) for controlling and securing 

the emergency scene of a WMD or hazardous materials event. 

b. Understand procedures and protocols for setting up locations for the command post, staging 

areas, medical monitoring functions, and proper isolation boundaries for the different zones 

for the emergency scene. Know how to control entry into these areas. 
42

c. Be able to work within the incident command structure, including maintaining 

communication with appropriate personnel on the scene (e.g., incident commander) to 

properly implement scene security. Be able to implement the traffic control plan, in 

particular, access and egress procedures called for by the on-scene incident commander. 

d. Understand and implement necessary security for the on-scene command post or center. 

e. Know how to develop a plan to secure the event scene and facilities to mitigate agents and 

materials removed from the scene or those that will be kept on scene in coordination with 

the HazMat team manager and incident commander. 

IV. Know and follow self-protection measures and protective measures for personnel on 

the scene of WMD events and hazardous materials events. The law enforcement 

manager should: 

a. Recognize the importance of complying with department training and instructions, as well 

as State and Federal requirements, when using personal protective clothing and equipment. 

Understand the limitations of this clothing and equipment in a WMD or hazardous 

materials event. 

b. Know how to implement decontamination procedures for emergency responders, victims, 

or nearby bystanders. 

c. Understand the importance of implementing medically prescribed prophylactic treatments 

with appropriate medical oversight and in compliance with Centers for Disease Control and 

Prevention (CDC) guidelines for potentially contaminated individuals. 

d. Understand the risks to personnel who are working in or rescuing victims from the hot and 

warm zones. Know how to move these persons to the triage staging area. 

e. Know how to use direct reading instruments. Recognize their limitations for detecting 

WMD agents and/or hazardous materials. 

f. Follow procedures and practices for handling mass casualties, including how to move 

victims to triage sites, transport routes to be used, and evacuation of victims and personnel 

no longer needed on scene to prevent further exposures to WMD and hazardous materials 

agents. 

g. Understand the potential of “secondary devices” that may cause additional harm to 

emergency responders. Be able to recognize this danger on the scene. Be able to protect 

emergency responders and others from this threat. 

h. Understand the importance of, and be able to assume the role of, safety officer (if 

appropriately trained). 

V. Know and follow procedures for protecting a potential crime scene. The law 

enforcement manager should: 

 

a. Understand procedures for managing and protecting evidence and minimizing disturbance 

of the crime scene to the maximum extent possible, consistent with the protection of life. 

Be able to help mitigate medical events using appropriately trained and equipped response 

personnel. 

b. Know how to identify a potential terrorist incident. Know how to recognize evidence that 

could be useful to the investigation of the crime scene. 
43

c. Understand the importance of making sure that emergency responders are properly 

indoctrinated to the appropriate protocols to minimize disturbing potential crime scene 

evidence. Be able to implement these protocols in coordination with the on-scene incident 

commander. 

d. Understand the roles and jurisdiction of Federal agencies in a potential WMD event. These 

Federal agencies would include, but not be limited to Federal Bureau of Investigation 

(FBI), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), U.S. Department of Education 

(DOE), U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services (HHS), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

VI. Know plans and assets available for the crime scene investigation and control of 

WMD and hazardous materials events to secure and retain evidence removed from 

the scene. The law enforcement manager should: 

a. Know department custody procedures for crime scene evidence. Be able to implement 

these procedures collecting potential evidence, recording the chain of custody, and securing 

storage of evidence collected on the scene. 

b. Know assets currently available for use in conducting the crime scene investigation 

including collection, security, and preservation of evidence. Have requisite communication 

equipment to contact these assets for on-scene assistance, in coordination with the on-scene 

incident commander. 

c. Be able to draft emergency response plan criteria for coordination of investigation of a 

potential crime scene involving multiple jurisdictions that may be on a WMD event scene. 

In coordination with the on-scene incident commander, be able to alter existing plans to fit 

the circumstances of the actual incident. 

d. Follow department procedures for securing both contaminated and non-contaminated 

evidence. Follow procedures to mitigate the collected evidence. 

e. Follow department protocols in arresting (or taking into custody) persons involved with 

conducting potentially illegal acts related to WMD and hazardous materials events. Follow 

procedures for transporting these individuals to secure locations for further evidence 

gathering. 

 
44

B. Fire Service 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL FOR FIRE DEPARTMENT SENIOR 

OFFICERS FOR EVENTS INVOLVING WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL: Addresses training requirements for fire 

department senior officers who are expected to be part of the leadership and management team 

that likely will respond to an event involving the terrorist/criminal use of weapons of mass 

destruction (WMD). Fire department senior officers will be involved in planning for and 

managing the emergency on-site scene and will help implement the on-scene command post. 

These officers are expected to manage fire fighters and other allied emergency responders, who 

will support the ongoing operations to mitigate and control the hazardous agents and materials, 

using any available resources to safely and sufficiently conclude the event. Generally, actions to 

be taken by fire department senior officers should be conducted from the cold zone (sometimes 

from the warm zone). It is expected that fire service managers will be integrated into the overall 

command structure that is implemented for the management and supervision of resources and 

assets being deployed to mitigate and recover from the overall WMD emergency event. 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL GUIDELINES FOR FIRE DEPARTMENT 

SENIOR OFFICERS: 

I. Have successfully completed training in awareness, performance, and management 

levels for events involving hazardous materials and for WMD. The fire department 

senior official should: 

a. Complete training in (or have had equivalent training and relevant experience) and 

understand the standard performance guidelines for the fire fighter at the Awareness Level 

and at the Performance Level A. 

b. Know how to implement the department Incident Command System and relevant portions 

of the department’s emergency response plan. 

c. Recognize the hazards, risks, and limitations associated with using chemical protective 

clothing and equipment. 

d. Be able to implement local and regional emergency response plans in a WMD or hazardous 

materials event. 

e. Understand the roles of fire department personnel in the State emergency response plan. 

Be familiar with the assets available for implementing the State plan in a WMD event. 

f. Know what Federal assets and assistance may be available to help in handling a WMD or 

hazardous materials event. 

g. Understand the importance of implementing appropriate decontamination procedures in a 

hazardous materials and WMD event. Be able to implement these procedures to protect 

emergency responders, victims, and public safety personnel, and for equipment that will be 

reused. 
45

II. Know Incident Command System and the Unified Command System’s procedures 

and the steps required for implementation of each system. Understand how the 

systems are integrated and implemented to work together and what information the 

on-scene manager needs from the fire department manager. Be familiar with the full 

range of incident command functions, and be able to fulfill any functions related to 

fire department operations. The fire department senior official should: 

a. Know how to manage any one of the five basic functions for operating the department’s 

Incident Command System. Be able to assess the need for additional resources and obtain 

these resources from identified assets. 

b. Understand Emergency Operations Center (EOC) responsibilities. Be able to interface and 

coordinate with them. 

c. Understand the applications and interfaces of the Unified Command System with the 

Incident Command System. Know methods and practices used to implement the Unified 

Command System on the scene of a WMD or hazardous materials event. 

d. Be able to assist the incident commander in completing all termination documentation for 

the event as they relate to fire department operations rendered at the scene. 

e. Know how to conduct or assist in conducting a critique of actions taken during the 

complete response to the WMD and/or hazardous materials event. Be able to develop 

lessons learned. Draft and implement appropriate strategies to determine what 

improvements relevant to fire department operations need to be made based on lessons 

learned. 

f. Know how to develop a media-management plan for a potential WMD or hazardous 

materials event in coordination with the on-scene incident commander. 

g. Be able to manage fire department group activities under the Unified Command and 

Incident Command Systems. Be able to assist the on-scene commander or leadership team 

in charge of successfully concluding the WMD or hazardous materials event. 

h. Be able to advise the incident commander or management team on the fire department’s 

roles and capabilities. Share the latest intelligence information and data, as well as local 

emergency response plans, procedures, and practices. This support includes knowing how 

to use available resources to assist the incident commander or management team in 

handling the event, including onsite salvage and overhaul operations. 

III. Know protocols to secure, mitigate, and remove hazardous agents or materials that 

may be WMD agents or materials. The fire department senior official should: 

a. Know how to assess agents or materials used in a potential WMD or hazardous materials 

event based on the signs and symptoms of the victims exposed to the event. Use 

appropriate methods to gather data. Follow emergency medical protocols for treating 

victims. 

b. Understand procedures and protocols for setting up locations for the command post, staging 

areas, medical monitoring functions, and proper isolation boundaries for the different zones 

for the emergency scene. Know how to control entry into these areas. 

c. Be able to identify hazards presented at the scene to implement the most effective means of 

fire suppression. Fully consider the safety of emergency responders in bringing the event 

to a successful conclusion. 

d. Be familiar with environmental and public safety requirements for removal, handling, 

transporting, and storing WMD and hazardous materials agents found on the scene. 
46

e. Understand the role of the fire department regarding crime scene evidence, including the 

chain of custody and the need for secure storage of contaminated or non-contaminated 

evidence gathered at the scene. Follow safety and health procedures for handling such 

materials or agents. 

IV. Know and follow self-protection and protective measures for emergency responders 

to WMD and hazardous materials events. The fire department senior official should: 

a. Know how to properly use personal protective equipment (PPE). Understand the 

limitations of this equipment in a WMD or hazardous materials event. 

b. Recognize the special hazards to humans from WMD agents and hazardous materials. Be 

able to assist in caring for and treating victims exposed to such agents or materials. Know 

how to obtain resources for appropriate rescue, triage, transport, and emergency treatment 

contaminated individuals and other victims. 

c. Understand the hazards and risks to those personnel working in the hot and warm zones, as 

well as the victims and others who may have been contaminated by the event. Follow 

protocols for effective decontamination of both victims and equipment that will be reused. 

d. Follow hazard analysis and risk assessment procedures in determining types of PPE that 

will most effectively protect emergency responders, based on WMD agents and materials 

that could be present. 

e. Know how to use direct reading instruments. Understand their limitations for detecting 

WMD agents and/or hazardous materials. Be aware of the importance of using qualified 

laboratories for further analysis and for accuracy in determining the type(s) of agents or 

materials found at the scene. 

f. Follow post-event rehabilitation practices and procedures for emergency response and 

other fire department personnel. These procedures include Critical Incident Stress 

Management (CISM) and debriefing. Be able to coordinate these programs for department 

personnel, if requested. 

g. Understand the importance of implementing medically prescribed and appropriate 

prophylactic treatments for those that may have become contaminated with a biological 

hazard. Help coordinate these treatments with local and Federal health officials. 

h. Understand the importance of the role of safety officer in protecting on-scene emergency 

responders. Be able to assume that role, if requested. 

V. Understand development of the Incident Action Plan and know assets available for 

controlling WMD and hazardous materials events, in coordination with the on-scene 

incident commander. In collaboration with the on-scene incident commander, be able 

to assist in planning and in determining operational goals and objectives to bring the 

event to a successful conclusion. The fire department senior official should: 

a. Know what assets are available for addressing on-scene fire hazards. Have the necessary 

communication equipment to request onsite assistance from these assets. Coordinate these 

activities with the on-scene incident commander. 

b. Know how to draft an incident mitigation or action plan to address on-scene fire hazards 

and to obtain assets to control or extinguish such fire hazards in WMD events. Be able to 

alter existing plans to fit the circumstances of the actual incident. Coordinate the 

development, implementation, and alteration of the plan with the on-scene incident 

commander. 
47

c. Be able to advise the on-scene incident commander and other officials regarding site 

assessment and establishment of zone boundaries and the outer perimeter of the emergency 

scene, including an appropriate location for the command post. 

d. Follow prescribed methodologies in assessing hazard and risk and for protecting the 

general public and emergency responders. 

e. Be able to identify potential targets for terrorist attacks. Understand tactics that terrorists 

might use in the local area. Be able to develop preplans to mitigate a potential WMD or 

hazardous materials event involving these potential targets. 

VI. Know and follow procedures for protecting a potential crime scene. The fire 

department senior official should: 

a. Know appropriate procedures for protecting evidence and minimizing disturbance of the 

crime scene to the maximum extent possible, while protecting victims and other individuals 

at the scene. Help victims minimize adverse medical signs and symptoms. 

b. Understand the importance of coordinating with law enforcement officials to ensure that 

fire department actions do not hinder the gathering of evidence by the law enforcement 

officers. Assist law enforcement officers in identifying and preserving evidence and 

sharing intelligence. Follow protocols to minimize disturbing the crime scene. 

c. Understand the roles and jurisdictions of Federal agencies in a potential WMD event. 

d. Know how to recognize a terrorist incident. Be able to identify evidence that could be 

useful to the investigation of the crime scene. Share intelligence with law enforcement 

officials and the on-scene incident commander. 

VII. Know and follow department protocols for medical monitoring of response personnel 

involved with or working at WMD and hazardous material events. The fire 

department senior official should: 

a. Be able to develop a medical action plan to protect on-scene emergency responders. 

Coordinate implementation of the plan with the emergency medical manager and on-scene 

incident commander. 

b. Know how to implement, in concert with the medical action plan, department procedures 

for medical monitoring of all response team members involved with or working within the 

hot and warm control zones. Ensure that the plan includes monitoring baseline vital signs 

and physical assessment for personnel before entry and after leaving these areas. 

c. Make sure that the signs and symptoms of exposure to potential WMD agents are included 

in the medical monitoring and physical assessment of those responders entering and 

leaving the hot and warm zones. 
48

C. Emergency Medical Services 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL 

PROVIDERS FOR EVENTS INVOLVING WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL: Addresses training requirements for emergency 

medical providers who will be part of the leadership and management of the emergency medical 

team likely to respond to an event involving the terrorist/criminal use of weapons of mass 

destruction (WMD). These emergency medical managers will be involved in planning for and 

managing on-site emergency medical services (EMS). They also will help set up the command 

post at the scene. These personnel are expected to manage emergency medical resources used to 

successfully conclude the event. Generally, all of the actions to be taken by these emergency 

medical team managers should be conducted from within the cold zone (and at times from within 

the warm zone). It is expected that the emergency medical team managers will be integrated into 

the overall command structure set up for management and supervision of resources and assets 

deployed to control and conclude the overall WMD or hazardous materials emergency event. 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL GUIDELINES FOR EMERGENCY 

MEDICAL PROVIDERS TEAM MANAGERS: 

I. Have successfully completed training in awareness, performance, and management 

levels for events involving hazardous materials and for WMD agents. The EMS 

manager should: 

a. Complete training in (or have had equivalent training and relevant experience) and 

understand the standard performance guidelines for the law enforcement officer at the 

Awareness Level and at Performance Level A. 

b. Know how to implement the EMS Incident Command System or the generic Incident 

Command System. Be able to carry out emergency medical group duties and 

responsibilities. 

c. Understand the hazards and risks to response personnel using chemical protective clothing 

and equipment. Recognize the limitations of such clothing and equipment. 

d. Know how to implement those components of local and regional emergency response plans 

that address EMS and support group activities. Be aware of assets that can be made 

available from implementing such plans. 

e. Understand the role of EMS in the State emergency response plan. Be aware of the assets 

available from implementing the State plan in a WMD or hazardous materials event. 

f. Understand what Federal assets and assistance may be available to help in handling a 

WMD or hazardous materials event. 

g. Understand the importance of implementing appropriate decontamination procedures to 

protect emergency responders, victims, and public safety personnel, as well as equipment 

that may be reused. 

h. Be familiar with personal protective equipment (PPE) that will be used by EMS responders 

in caring for victims of a hazardous material or WMD event. Help ensure that personnel 

follow appropriate decontamination procedures. 
49

II. Know and follow Incident Command System and Unified Command System 

procedures and requirements for implementing each system. Understand how the 

systems are implemented and integrated. Know what information the on-scene 

incident commander will need from the EMS manager. The EMS manager should: 

a. Be familiar with the full range of incident command functions and be capable of fulfilling 

any one of the five functions as they pertain to EMS operations. 

b. Understand Emergency Operations Center (EOC) responsibilities. Be able to interface and 

coordinate with them. 

c. Know how to assess the need for additional resources. Know how to obtain these resources 

from assets available in the department and local and regional emergency response plans. 

d. Be able to assist the incident commander in completing all termination documentation for 

the event as they relate to EMS. 

e. Be able to assist in conducting a critique of actions taken during the response to the WMD 

and/or hazardous materials event. Assist the incident commander (or designee) in 

conducting the incident critique and documenting lessons learned. Be able to suggest 

improvements in planning response to future events as they pertain to EMS operations. 

f. Understand the applications and interfaces of the Unified Command with the Incident 

Command System and the methods and practices that are used to implement the Unified 

Command System. Be able to work within either system. 

g. Be able to manage emergency medical group activities under the Unified Command and 

the Incident Command Systems. Be able to assist the on-scene commander or leadership 

team in charge of successfully concluding the WMD or hazardous materials event. 

h. Know how to develop and implement a media-management plan in coordination with the 

on-scene incident commander and other agencies and organizations involved in on-thescene emergency response activities. 

i. Share with the on-scene incident commander (or leadership group) the latest intelligence 

from data and information gathered from EMS responders working on the scene. 

III. Know and follow protocols to provide emergency medical treatment to persons 

involved in a potential or actual WMD event. The EMS manager should: 

a. Be familiar with PPE used by personnel providing emergency medical care to victims of a 

WMD event and by decontaminating the scene. 

b. Know prescribed protocols used to assess the signs and symptoms of exposure to potential 

WMD agents or materials. Follow these protocols in treating victims. 

c. Know what decontamination protocols will be effective in protecting potential victims of 

WMD agents or materials, emergency responders entering the hot and warm zones, and 

those personnel attending to contaminated victims. 

d. Know how to assess and treat victims of WMD agents or materials. Understand the means 

and methods for safeguarding victims transported to nearby hospitals for more advanced 

medical treatment. 

e. Recognize the importance of implementing medically prescribed prophylactic interventions 

for an event that may involve hazards that may be affected by treatment regimens. 

f. Know how to coordinate and work with Federal, State and local public health officials, 

including Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) officials, to provide 

emergency medical care and longer-term care for those persons exposed to WMD materials 

or agents. 
50

g. Be able to implement procedures and practices for handling mass casualties. These 

procedures include implementation of appropriate triage and transportation components of 

the mass casualty plan. Be able to coordinate these activities with law enforcement 

managers and the on-scene incident commander. 

 

IV. Know and follow self-protection and protective measures for victims of WMD events 

and hazardous materials events. Understand the special hazards to humans from 

WMD agents and hazardous materials. The EMS manager should: 

a. Know how to use PPE issued to EMS providers. Be aware of the limitations of such 

equipment. 

b. Recognize the risks to personnel who are rescuing victims in the hot and warm zones and 

moving these victims to the triage or staging area. Follow prescribed protocols for 

different WMD agents and materials to be used to decontaminate victims. Ensure 

protection for personnel involved in the decontamination process. 

c. Know how to use direct reading instruments. Be aware of their limitations in detecting 

WMD agents and/or hazardous materials. 

d. Recognize the importance of implementing appropriate prophylactic intervention as 

appropriate per established guidelines and protocols. 

e. Follow procedures and practices for treating and handling mass casualties, for moving 

victims from hot and warm zones to the triage area, for managing victims requiring 

emergency medical treatment, and packaging and transporting victims requiring more 

definitive medical treatment. 

f. Be able to coordinate appropriate medical treatment and care with local hospital emergency 

rooms’ staff as called for under the local emergency response plan and regional response 

plan. Coordinate these activities with the on-scene incident commander. 

g. Know to research and obtain desired assets to assist in providing intelligence about the 

WMD agents or materials. Observe victim signs and symptoms, note their descriptions of 

agents or materials, sample data, and review other information to assist the on-scene 

incident commander to identify hazardous agents and materials at the scene. 

h. Work with others in implementing appropriate mental health resources to assure that 

Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) services are available to emergency 

responders, victims, their families, and the general population, as appropriate. 

i. Recognize the importance of fully qualified and equipped safety officers in protecting onscene emergency responders. Be able to assume that role, if requested. 

V. Know the plans and assets available for transporting the victims of WMD and 

hazardous materials events to more advanced medical care at hospitals and similar 

facilities. Be familiar with the department emergency plan criteria for transporting 

victims to more advanced medical care facilities. The EMS manager should: 

a. Know what assets are available for transporting victims. Have the necessary 

communication equipment to direct such assets to the scene. 

b. Be able to coordinate transportation of victims with law enforcement managers as part of 

the traffic control plan established by the on-scene incident commander. 

c. Be able to draft emergency plan criteria for transport of victims of WMD events. Be able 

to alter existing plans in coordination with law enforcement managers, as part of the overall 

traffic control plan. 
51

d. Assist the on-scene incident commander in addressing strategic and tactical issues related 

to onsite EMS, including transport to and coordination with local hospitals and clinics. 

VI. Know and follow procedures for protecting a potential crime scene. The EMS 

manager should: 

a. Follow procedures for protecting evidence and minimizing disturbance of the crime scene 

to the maximum extent possible. Ensure that those procedures protect persons and help 

victims minimize adverse medical signs and symptoms. 

b. Ensure that EMS providers follow protocols to minimize disturbing the crime scene in 

coordination with the law enforcement managers and the on-scene incident commander. 

c. Understand the roles and jurisdiction of Federal agencies in a WMD event. 

d. Be able to recognize a terrorist incident and identify evidence that could be useful to the 

investigation of the crime scene. 

VII. Know and follow department protocols for medical monitoring of response personnel 

involved or working with WMD and hazardous material events. The EMS manager 

should: 

a. Know how to implement department procedures for medical monitoring of response team 

members working in the hot or warm zones and personnel conducting onsite 

decontamination. Ensure that medical monitoring includes recording baseline vital signs 

and physical assessment before personnel enter and after they leave the hot or warm zones. 

b. Recognize the need for administrative documentation of onsite medical activities. Ensure 

completeness and accuracy of such documentation. 

c. Know how to implement medical monitoring protocols in coordination with the EMS team 

manager and the on-scene incident commander. 
52

D. Hazardous Materials 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL FOR HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 

TEAM MANAGER FOR EVENTS INVOLVING WEAPONS OF MASS 

DESTRUCTION 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL: Addresses training requirements for hazardous 

materials (HazMat) team managers who will be part of the leadership and management of the 

emergency response team likely to respond to an event involving the terrorist/criminal use of 

weapons of mass destruction (WMD). These personnel will be involved in planning and 

managing the onsite scene involving the hot and warm zones. They will help set up the on-scene 

command post. HazMat team managers are expected to supervise staff who will attempt to 

mitigate and control the hazardous agents and materials. They are expected to use all available 

resources to bring the event to a successful conclusion. Generally, all of the actions to be taken 

by HazMat team managers should be conducted from within the warm zone or out to the cold 

zone. It is important that HazMat team managers are integrated into the overall command 

structure set up for management and supervision of resources and assets being deployed to 

control and conclude the WMD emergency event. 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL GUIDELINES FOR HAZARDOUS 

MATERIALS TEAM MANAGERS: 

I. Have successfully completed training in awareness, performance, and management 

levels for events involving hazardous materials and WMD agents. The HazMat team 

manager should: 

a. Complete training in (or have had equivalent training and relevant experience) and 

understand the standard performance guidelines for HazMat personnel at the Awareness 

Level and at Performance Level A. 

b. Know how to implement the department Incident Command System and carry out the 

department emergency response plan. 

c. Understand the hazards and risks associated with the use of personal protective equipment 

(PPE) by emergency response personnel. Recognize the limitations of such clothing and 

equipment. 

d. Be able to implement the local and regional emergency response plans in a hazardous 

materials or WMD event. 

e. Understand the roles of the hazardous materials response team in the State emergency 

response plan. Understand the assets available from implementing the State plan in a 

WMD or hazardous materials event. 

f. Understand what Federal assets and assistance may be available to help in handling a 

WMD or hazardous materials event. 

g. Implement appropriate decontamination procedures to protect emergency responders, 

victims, and public safety personnel, and equipment that may be reused. Be able to 

determine what decontamination procedures are appropriate, based on the known materials 

or hazardous agents that are on the scene and that must be removed from persons leaving 

the hot or warm zones. 
53

h. Assist the on-scene incident commander in establishing boundaries for the various zones 

and locations for the command post and staging areas. 

II. Know and follow Incident Command System and Unified Command System 

procedures and requirements for implementing each system. Understand how the 

systems are implemented and integrated. Know what information the on-scene 

incident commander will need from the HazMat team manager. Be familiar with the 

full range of incident command functions and be able to fulfill any function pertaining 

to HazMat team operations. The HazMat team manager should: 

a. Know how to manage any one of the five basic functions for operating the department 

Incident Command System. Be able to assess the need for additional resources and obtain 

these resources from available assets. 

b. Understand Emergency Operations Center (EOC) responsibilities. Be able to interface and 

coordinate with them. 

c. Understand the applications and interfaces of the Unified Command System with the 

Incident Command System. Be aware of methods and practices used to implement the 

Unified Command System on the scene of a WMD or hazardous materials event. 

d. Help the incident commander complete all termination documentation for the event relating 

to HazMat team operations rendered at the scene. 

e. Assist in conducting a critique of actions taken during the response to the WMD or 

hazardous materials event. Assist the incident commander (or designee) in conducting the 

incident critique and preparing documentation lessons learned. Be able to suggest 

improvements in planning a response to a future event. Be able to draft a strategy to 

implement improvements identified from lessons learned. 

f. Know how to develop a media-management plan for a potential WMD or hazardous 

materials event in coordination with the on-scene incident commander. 

g. Manage HazMat team operations and activities under the Unified Command and Incident 

Command Systems. Be able to assist the on-scene commander or leadership team in 

charge of successfully concluding the WMD or hazardous materials event. 

h. Provide intelligence to incident commander. Coordinate HazMat team operations with 

other special operations teams that may be working on site at a WMD or hazardous 

materials event. 

III. Know and follow protocols and procedures to secure, mitigate, and remove hazardous 

materials or potential WMD agents. The HazMat team manager should: 

a. Use available data and share intelligence with command post staff. Such information 

includes detecting signs and symptoms of exposure among victims and responders, 

describing agents or materials used to harm victims, and sampling data results and other 

sources of information to help identify the WMD agents or materials. Be able to use and 

share this information with the incident commander to help determine and assess hazards 

and harm. 

b. Follow procedures and protocols for setting up the command post, staging areas, medical 

monitoring functions, and proper isolation boundaries on the scene. Control entry into 

these areas. Secure the pathway and ensure appropriate packaging to safely remove 

hazardous materials or agents from the scene. 
54

c. Comply with environmental and public safety requirements for removal, handling, 

transportation, and storage of WMD or hazardous materials agents found at the scene. 

Ensure allocation of PPE and clothing to protect persons handling and moving the 

hazardous materials or WMD agents from the scene. 

d. Recognize the role of law enforcement as it pertains to crime scene evidence, including 

chain of custody and the need for secure storage of collected evidence. 

e. Work with the law enforcement manager and the on-scene incident commander to properly 

implement the traffic control plan. 

IV. Know and follow self-protection and protective measures for emergency responders 

to WMD events and hazardous materials events. Be aware of the special hazards to 

humans from WMD agents and hazardous materials. The HazMat team manager 

should: 

a. Know which decontamination protocols will be effective in protecting potential victims of 

WMD agents or materials. Know how to care for victims of WMD agents or materials. Be 

able to recommend a decontamination procedure that will be parallel to EMS protocols for 

treating contaminated victims. 

b. Know how to use chemical protective suits and related equipment. Recognize the 

importance of training personnel in proper use of PPE. Be aware of the limitations of using 

PPE in such an event. 

c. Recognize the risks to personnel working in the hot and warm zones. Understand the 

importance of wearing proper PPE when working in such locations. Implement the 

decontamination protocol that will be most effective for those leaving the work zones. 

Follow hazard analysis and risk assessment procedures to identify WMD agents and 

materials that could be present. Determine the proper types of PPE that will protect 

emergency responders. 

d. Know how to use direct reading instruments. Recognize the accuracy and limitations of 

these instruments in detecting hazardous materials and WMD agents. 

e. Implement appropriate prescribed prophylactic procedures in accordance with established 

protocols. 

f. Understand that “Secondary Device” protocols may be in place on the scene from the 

perpetrators to harm the response community. 

g. Understand the importance of the role of safety officer. Be able to fulfill that role, if 

requested. 

V. Know how to develop an incident action plan. Coordinate with the on-scene incident 

commander assets available for controlling WMD and hazardous materials events. 

The HazMat team manager should: 

a. Know what steps to take to assist the on-scene incident commander in defining operational 

goals and objectives that are to be followed on site in bringing the event to a successful 

conclusion. 

b. Manage the operations functions as called for in the Incident Action Plan that has been 

adopted by the incident commander. 

c. Know what assets are available for use in addressing the onsite hazards. Have the 

necessary communication equipment to direct such assets that may be needed on the scene. 

Coordinate these activities with the on-scene incident commander. 
55

d. Be able to draft an incident mitigation or Incident Action Plan to address on-scene hazards, 

control or remove such hazards, and make alterations to existing plans to fit the 

circumstances of the actual incident. Coordinate development, implementation, and 

alteration of the plan with the on-scene incident commander. 

e. Advise the on-scene incident commander and other interested officials regarding site 

assessment and remediation of the event scene. 

f. Be able to develop a plan to secure the event scene. Identify facilities to handle agents and 

materials removed from the scene or those that will be kept on scene. Coordinate these 

activities with the law enforcement manager and incident commander. 

VI. Know and follow procedures for protecting a potential crime scene. Understand the 

roles and jurisdiction of Federal agencies in a WMD event. The HazMat team manager 

should: 

a. Follow procedures for protecting evidence and minimizing disturbance of the crime scene 

to the maximum extent possible, while protecting individuals and helping victims minimize 

adverse medical signs and symptoms and obtain prompt medical treatment. 

b. Ensure that HazMat team members follow protocols to minimize disturbing the crime 

scene. Coordinate with law enforcement officials to make sure that HazMat team actions 

do not hinder the gathering of evidence. 

c. Understand the roles and jurisdiction of Federal agencies in a potential WMD event. 

d. Be able to recognize a terrorist incident and identify evidence that could be useful to the 

investigation of the crime scene. 

VII. Know and follow department protocols for medical monitoring of response personnel 

involved with or working onsite at WMD and hazardous material events, including

response team members involved with or working within the hot and warm control 

zones or personnel involved in onsite decontamination. The HazMat team manager 

should: 

a. Ensure that medical monitoring will include recording baseline vital signs and physical 

assessment for personnel before entering and after leaving these zones. Coordinate medical 

monitoring with the EMS manager and the on-scene incident commander. 

b. Recognize the need for administrative documentation of medical monitoring activities of 

emergency responders on site. Work with the EMS manager to ensure that documentation 

is complete and accurate. 

c. Be aware of methods for monitoring the post-exposure medical surveillance of HazMat 

team members involved at the scene of a WMD or hazardous materials event. 
56

E. Emergency Management 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL FOR EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 

PERSONNEL FOR EVENTS INVOLVING WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL: Addresses training requirements for emergency 

management personnel who will be part of the leadership and management team expected to 

respond to an event involving the terrorist/criminal use of weapons of mass destruction (WMD). 

These emergency management directors/coordinators/team managers will be involved in 

preparing plans for mobilizing and coordinating the resources and assets needed for managing 

emergency operations and for providing onsite technical assistance when needed. These 

personnel will assist in planning implementation of the incident command structure, staffing of 

the satellite or headquarters emergency operations center, and establishing the command post or 

mobile command unit at the scene. These personnel are expected to work in a coordinated 

manner with the on-scene incident commander or unified command team to manage the 

emergency management resources required for bringing the event to a successful conclusion. 

Generally, many of the activities conducted by the emergency management team will be away 

from the immediate emergency incident scene, but require staying in communication with those 

at the scene. All of the actions to be taken by these emergency management team managers are 

expected to be conducted from within the cold zone. It is expected that the emergency 

management team managers will be part of the overall response, but will not be part of the onscene incident command structure as called for in the emergency response preplan or the 

emergency operations plan document. However, the emergency manager is responsible for 

developing, testing, exercising, and revising the preplan or emergency operations plan 

established for coordinating management and supervision of the resources and assets that will 

be needed to control and successfully conclude the overall WMD emergency event. 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL GUIDELINES FOR EMERGENCY 

MANAGEMENT AGENCY’S EMERGENCY MANAGERS: 

I. Have successfully completed appropriate and qualified training at the awareness and 

management levels for events involving hazardous materials and for weapons of mass 

destruction. The emergency manager should: 

a. Complete training in (or have had equivalent training and relevant experience) and 

understand the standard performance guidelines for emergency management personnel at 

the Awareness Level and at the Management Level and be able to carry out duties as 

assigned. 

b. Know how to implement the agency emergency operations plan and carry out the duties 

and responsibilities assigned to the agency working in the emergency operations center. 

Assist those persons responsible for implementation of the generic Incident Command 

System or the agency incident management system. 

c. Be aware of the hazards and risks associated with using chemical protective clothing and 

equipment. Recognize the limitations of such clothing and equipment. 

d. Know how to implement the agency emergency operations plan. Know how to interface 

and integrate the plan with other local and regional emergency response plans in a WMD or 

hazardous materials event. 
57

e. Understand the roles of emergency management personnel in the State emergency response 

plan. Be aware of assets available and how to access these assets from officials 

implementing the State plan in a WMD or hazardous materials event. 

f. Be aware of and know how to access assets that may be available from the Federal 

Response Teams and that could help handle a WMD event. 

g. Recognize the importance of implementing appropriate decontamination procedures in 

protecting emergency responders, victims, and public safety personnel, and for equipment 

that may be reused. 

II. Know and follow Incident Command System and Unified Command System 

procedures and requirements for implementing each system. Understand how the 

systems are implemented and integrated. Recognize when it is appropriate for the 

Unified Command System to evolve from the Incident Command System. Know what 

information the on-scene incident commander will need from the emergency 

management agency emergency operations center. Be familiar with the full range of 

coordinating activities and duties of the emergency management agency and all 

incident command functions. Assist those persons who will be fulfilling functions 

related to the emergency operations plan. The emergency manager should: 

a. Assist and support the person designated to manage any one of the basic functions for 

operating the department Incident Command System. Provide knowledge and expertise in 

planning, logistics, finance, communications, and documentation or record keeping of 

activities related to the incident. 

b. Understand Emergency Operations Center (EOC) responsibilities. Be able to interface and 

coordinate with them. 

c. Understand the applications and interconnection of the Unified Command System as an 

extension of the Incident Command System. Know methods and practices that are used to 

determine when and how to implement the Unified Command System on the scene of a 

WMD or hazardous materials event. 

d. Help the incident commander complete all termination documentation for the event related 

to emergency operations as covered in the emergency operations plan documentation 

criteria. 

e. Know how to conduct, or assist in conducting, a critique of the actions taken during the 

response to the WMD and/or hazardous materials event. Assist the incident commander 

(or designee) in conducting the incident critique and in documenting lessons learned. Apply 

a post-incident evaluation in planning for emergency operations in response to a future 

hazardous materials or WMD event. 

f. Coordinate with the on-scene commander development of a media-management plan as 

part of the Joint Information Center. Be able to implement and integrate the plan with 

other agencies that are on the scene of the event. 

g. Assist and support those responsible for emergency management activities under the 

Unified Command and the Incident Command Systems. Be able to assist the on-scene 

commander or unified leadership team in charge of successfully concluding the WMD or 

hazardous materials event. 

h. Advise the incident commander (or management team) regarding the emergency 

management agency role and capabilities. Share the latest intelligence information and 

data, as well as local emergency response plans, procedures, and practices. This 
58

information will include how to use available resources to assist the incident commander or 

unified command management team in carrying out established goals and objectives set for 

managing the emergency event. These may include salvage and overhaul operations 

needed at the scene, as well as associated cost-recovery efforts. Assist in coordinating 

activities among agencies and organizations involved in any structural or infrastructure 

recovery and cleanup efforts. 

III. Know how to develop an Incident Action Plan and identify assets available for 

controlling WMD and hazardous materials events. Coordinate these activities with 

the on-scene incident commander. Be familiar with steps to take to assist in planning 

operational goals and objectives that are to be followed on site in cooperation with the 

on-scene incident commander. The emergency manager should: 

a. Know what assets are available and how to access these assets in addressing emergency 

management-related hazards on the scene. Have the necessary communication equipment 

to direct such assets that are needed on the scene. Coordinate these activities with the onscene incident commander or unified command team. 

b. Understand the procedures that the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will follow in 

assisting on-scene emergency response leaders in setting up the locations for the command 

post, staging areas, medical monitoring tasks, proper isolation boundaries for the different 

zones for the emergency scene, and other tasks. 

c. Be able to assist those responsible for drafting an incident mitigation or Incident Action 

Plan to address the expected on-scene hazards. Coordinate with others the assets to control 

or mitigate such hazards in WMD events. Know how to alter existing emergency 

operations plans to fit the circumstances of the actual incident. Assist those responsible for 

the development, implementation, and alteration of the Incident Action Plan that will be 

fully coordinated with the on-scene incident commander. 

d. Be able to advise the on-scene incident commander (or unified command team) regarding 

site assessment and establishment of the zone boundaries and outer perimeter of the 

emergency scene, including appropriate location for the command post for public safety 

and for responders. 

e. Be familiar with the methodologies for performing hazard assessments and risk 

assessments to be able to protect the general public and emergency responders handling a 

WMD or hazardous materials event. If requested, assist the on-scene incident commander 

(or staff) in making the site assessment. 

f. Be able to identify potential targets for domestic attacks and the tactics that may potentially 

be used with potential local targets. Be able to develop preplans and incorporate these 

plans into the emergency operations plan. Work with owners and/or managers of the 

facilities to prevent or mitigate a potential WMD or hazardous materials event involving 

these potential targets. 

g. Know how to collect vital intelligence and information related to the incident or potential 

targets. Share that information with all agencies and managers that need such information 

and intelligence. 
59

IV. Know and follow self-protection and protective measures for the public and for 

emergency responders to WMD events and hazardous materials events. The 

emergency manager should: 

a. Know how to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) issued to trained 

qualified emergency management responders. Recognize the limitations of PPE in a WMD 

or hazardous materials event. 

b. Understand the special hazards to humans from WMD agents and hazardous materials. Be 

familiar with the proper care and treatment of victims that have been exposed to such 

agents or materials. Assist those responsible for obtaining the necessary resources to 

provide the appropriate rescue, triage, transportation, and emergency treatment of 

contaminated individuals or other victims. 

c. Recognize the hazards and risks to personnel working in the hot and warm zones, and to 

victims and others who may have been contaminated by the event. Support and assist with 

the required assets for implementing proper decontamination protocols for both individuals 

and for equipment that will be reused. 

d. Be familiar with hazard analysis and risk assessment procedures. When requested by the 

on-scene incident commander, assist in determining the proper types of PPE that will 

protect the emergency responders from the various WMD agents and materials. 

e. Know how to use direct reading instruments. Recognize their limitations for detecting 

WMD agents and/or hazardous materials. Understand the importance of using qualified 

laboratories for further analysis for accuracy in determining the type(s) of agents or 

materials in WMD situations. Be able to coordinate and provide needed support to the onscene incident commander in obtaining instruments and laboratory analysis of samples 

taken at the scene. 

f. Be familiar with post-event rehabilitation programs for emergency management personnel 

and the general public. These programs include stress debriefing and counseling. Be able 

to implement these programs for those needing them. 

g. Understand the importance of implementing antibiotic treatments for those that may have 

been contaminated with a biological hazard. Help coordinate these treatments with the 

local and Federal health officials. Follow the emergency operations plan in coordinating 

with public health agencies any health surveillance activities that may be necessary for the 

protection of the public, victims of the event, and emergency responders. 

h. Help coordinate the evacuation or sheltering and protecting in place of individuals who 

may have been exposed to hazards materials or WMD agents. 

i. Be able to implement those portions of the emergency operations plan and help coordinate 

provision of shelter, short-term health care services, emotional, physical, and general 

welfare services for those adversely impacted by a WMD incident. 

j. Help coordinate the tracking of patients and provide family assistance support in 

coordination with EMS services and public health services for those adversely impacted by 

a WMD incident. 

V. Know and follow procedures for protecting a potential crime scene. The emergency 

manager, if working at the incident scene, should: 

a. Know and follow procedures for protecting evidence and minimizing disturbance of the 

crime scene, while protecting individuals and property. 
60

b. Ensure that emergency management personnel follow the protocols to minimize disturbing 

the crime scene in coordination with law enforcement managers and the on-scene incident 

commander. 

c. Understand fully the roles and jurisdiction of Federal agencies in a WMD event. 

d. Recognize a terrorist incident. Be able to identify evidence that could be useful to the 

investigation of the crime scene. Share vital information and intelligence with the 

appropriate agencies and managers. 

VI. Know how to interface with and integrate requisite emergency support services and 

resources among the Emergency Operations Center management and the incident or 

unified command on-scene incident management team. Be familiar with the 

coordination functions and procedures that are to be conducted by and with the 

Emergency Operations Center in support of on-scene emergency response activities. 

The emergency manager should: 

a. Know how to develop and assist in the implementation of mutual aid protocols for 

hazardous materials and WMD incidents for his/her agency’s jurisdictions. 

b. Know how to develop and maintain an inventory of local resources. Know how to find out 

what State resources and assets could be available if needed at the scene of a WMD 

incident. 

c. Be able to assist those responsible for the development, management, and coordination of 

training of emergency management agency directors, supervisors, and staff in WMD 

response planning, support, and related duties and functions to be performed by the 

emergency management agency. Be able to develop task lists with performance standards 

for each staff member to help ensure that staff have the skills and resources to perform their 

job and meet established performance standards. 

d. Know how to develop task performance standards that relate to and conform to the 

emergency operations plan functions and tasks. Develop (or support those responsible for 

the design and development) an integrated exercise training program involving interagency, 

multi-jurisdictional/regional emergency response, and support organizations to evaluate the 

level of preparedness and effectiveness and the emergency operations plan for responding 

to potential WMD or hazardous materials incidents. 

e. Support the on-scene incident commander or unified command team in coordinating a 

large-scale interagency, multi-jurisdictional emergency and support organization response 

to a WMD or hazardous materials incident within the jurisdiction of the emergency 

management agency. 

f. Work with other agencies expected to respond to WMD incidents in developing task lists 

with performance standards for each task to ensure that staff of the various agencies have 

the skills, abilities, and resources to meet the performance standards related to their 

response to a WMD incident. Help coordinate requests for resources for local WMD 

training for all potential responding agencies and organizations. 

g. Follow the emergency operations plan in coordinating the activities of volunteer agencies, 

ham radio operators, and community emergency response teams that may be involved in a 

WMD or hazardous materials incident. 

h. Plan for and track available resources and resources that may be needed for a response to a 

WMD or hazardous material incident. Plan for secure facilities (including redundant and 

backup facilities) for use during and after a WMD incident. 
61

i. Serve as a liaison official and coordinate local, State and Federal resources and assets in 

support of the on-scene incident commander or unified command team. Be able to apply 

the resource allocation plan when needed. 

j. Support those responsible for management and coordination of the local or State salvage 

and cost-recovery program, including the vehicle and equipment restoration efforts, after 

the WMD emergency incident is concluded. 

k. Coordinate development and implementation of procedures for requesting, acquiring, 

distributing, and securing needed resources for WMD incidents. Know how to access 

materials from the national pharmaceutical stockpile in coordination with CDC. 

l. Be able to plan and coordinate public warnings, instructions, and information updates in 

concert with the media-management plan and as covered in the emergency operations plan. 

m. Know how to develop plans, procedures, and protocols for emergency response to a WMD 

incident. Be able to manage and coordinate the activities of the emergency management 

agency before, during, and after a WMD incident. 
62

F. Public Works 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL FOR PUBLIC WORKS MANAGERS 

AND SUPERVISORS FOR EVENTS INVOLVING WEAPONS OF MASS 

DESTRUCTION 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL: Addresses training requirements for all public 

works supervisors; planners, engineers, and superintendent/agency directors employed by public 

works facilities associated with a local jurisdiction involved in planning for emergency response 

to a WMD incident including one at a public works facility. Public works facilities, such as 

wastewater treatment or drinking water operations or a nuclear power plant, may represent 

WMD targets within the local jurisdiction. Properly trained public works managers will 

improve the overall effectiveness of emergency planning and preparedness for response to an 

incident within the local jurisdiction. Typically, it is assumed that non-public works personnel 

will constitute the emergency response organizations or resources. If, however, an incident were 

to occur at a power plant or other public works plant, the employees of the particular plant likely 

would be the first responders in protecting their own personnel. 

PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL GUIDELINES FOR PUBLIC WORKS 

MANAGERS AND SUPERVISORS: 

I. Have successfully completed appropriate and qualified training at the awareness and 

management levels for events involving hazardous materials and WMD agents. The 

public works supervisors and managers should: 

a. Complete training in (or have had equivalent training and relevant experience) and 

understand the standard performance guidelines for public works employees at the 

Awareness Level, Performance Level, and Management Level for public works managers 

and supervisors. 

b. Know how to implement the generic Incident Command System or the public works 

agency’s incident management system. Be able to implement the public works agency 

preplans and carry out the duties and responsibilities assigned to the agency. 

c. Understand the hazards and risks associated with public works employees responding to an 

emergency incident on the plant site. Recognize the hazards and risks associated with 

public works personnel using chemical protective clothing and equipment. Understand the 

limitations of such clothing and equipment. 

d. Be able to implement the public works agency emergency plan. Know how to interface 

and integrate with local and regional emergency response organizations in a WMD or 

hazardous materials event. 

e. Understand the roles of public works personnel in the local emergency response plan. 

Know how to access available assets through the on-scene incident commander. 

f. Understand what Federal assets and assistance may be available to help in handling a 

WMD or hazardous materials event. 

g. Recognize the importance of implementing appropriate decontamination procedures to 

protect public works responders and equipment that may be reused. 
63

II. Know and follow Incident Command System and Unified Command System 

procedures and requirements for implementing each system. Understand how the 

systems are implemented and integrated. Know what information the on-scene 

incident commander will need from the public works supervisor or manager. Be 

familiar with the full range of coordinating activities and duties of the public works 

agencies. Understand the Incident Command System and the Unified Command 

System. The public works supervisors and managers should: 

a. Understand the basic functions for operating the department Incident Command System. 

Know how to assess the need for additional resources and be able to obtain these resources 

as needed. 

b. Understand Emergency Operations Center (EOC) responsibilities. Be able to interface and 

coordinate with them. 

c. Understand the applications and interfaces of the Unified Command System with the 

Incident Command System and the methods and practices that are used to implement the 

Unified Command System on the scene of a WMD or hazardous materials event. 

d. Help the incident commander complete all termination documentation for the event as they 

relate to public works emergency operations rendered at the scene. 

e. Conduct or assist in conducting a critique of the actions taken during the response to the 

WMD and/or hazardous materials event. Assist the incident commander (or designee) in 

conducting the incident critique and documenting lessons learned. These supervisors and 

managers will collect the post-incident evaluations and documentation, conduct a postincident assessment of damages, and develop short- and long-term recovery strategies for 

the public works facilities and functions. 

f. Know how to develop a media-management plan in coordination with the on-scene 

incident commander. Be able to implement the media-management plan and integrate the 

plan with the other agencies involved with the event. 

g. Assist the on-scene commander or unified leadership team with public works-related issues 

or problems to assist in working towards a successful conclusion. 

h. Be able to advise the incident commander or management team about cost-recovery efforts 

associated with public works facilities, as well as assessment of damages to public works 

facilities. Coordinate these activities among the agencies and organizations involved in any 

structural or infrastructure recovery and cleanup efforts. 

i. Understand and manage, to the extent possible, the potential environmental impact to 

public works associated with a WMD incident. 

III. Know how to develop appropriate plans for actions to be taken by the public works 

agency when a WMD and hazardous materials event occurs. Know how to coordinate 

plans with the on-scene incident commander. Know what steps to take to assist in 

planning operational goals and objectives that are to be followed on site in 

cooperation with the on-scene incident commander in bringing the event to a 

successful conclusion. The public works supervisors and managers should: 

a. Know what local, State and Federal assets are available. Be able to access these assets in 

addressing the public works-related hazards on the scene. Have the necessary 

communication equipment to request assets that may be needed on the scene. Coordinate 

these activities with the on-scene incident commander or the unified command team. 
64

b. Understand the public works agency role in the Emergency Operations Center plan. 

Coordinate with the on-scene incident commander or unified command team. 

c. Know how to develop and help implement a plan for continuity of public works services 

and for establishment of alternative facilities and redundant capabilities for public works 

services in a WMD event. Coordinate these efforts with the incident commander or unified 

command team. Be able to alter existing plans to fit the circumstances of the actual 

incident. Coordinate development, implementation, and alteration of the plan with the onscene incident commander and Emergency Operations Center. 

d. Be familiar with the methodologies used to conduct vulnerability assessments and risk 

assessments for properly protecting the public works services. Be able to assess the 

vulnerability of public works facilities to a WMD or hazardous materials event. 

e. Be able to identify potential targets for domestic attacks. Know the tactics that may 

potentially be used with local targets. Be able to develop preplans to secure public works 

facilities in a potential WMD or hazardous materials event. 

f. Know how to collect and assure vital intelligence and information related to public works 

facilities (including a system’s analysis for everyday operations). Share intelligence with 

all appropriate agencies and managers. 

IV. Know and follow self-protection and protective measures for the public and for public 

works emergency responders in WMD events and hazardous materials events. The 

public works supervisors and managers should: 

a. Know how to use, inspect, and maintain personal protective equipment (PPE) issued by the 

department for use in such an event. Understand the limitations of this equipment in 

protecting personnel exposed to WMD agents or materials and hazardous materials. 

b. Recognize the special hazards to humans from WMD agents and hazardous materials. 

Take the necessary precautions in caring for victims that have been exposed to such agents 

or materials. Know how to obtain the resources to protect public works employees 

involved in a potential WMD incident. 

c. Understand the hazards, characteristics of WMD events, and risks to personnel who are to 

work in the hot and warm zones. Understand the importance of following the proper 

decontamination protocols. Be able to develop protocols that will be effective for both 

individuals and for equipment that will be reused. 

d. Know how to conduct hazard analysis and risk assessment procedures. Know how to 

determine what PPE will protect public works employees from the various WMD agents 

and materials that could be present. 

e. Know how to obtain post-event rehabilitation services for public works personnel adversely 

impacted by a WMD event. These services may include stress debriefing and counseling. 

f. Help coordinate or assist in evacuating, sheltering, and protecting public works personnel 

and members of the public who may have been exposed to the hazards on the incident 

scene. 

g. Help coordinate shelter, short-term health care services, emotional and physical needs, and 

general welfare for those impacted adversely by a WMD incident. 
65

V. Know and follow procedures for protecting a potential crime scene. The public works 

supervisors and managers should: 

a. Follow procedures for protecting evidence and minimizing disturbance of the crime scene 

to the maximum extent possible, while protecting life and property. 

b. Be able to implement and have public works personnel follow the protocols to minimize 

disturbing the crime scene in coordination with law enforcement managers and the onscene incident commander. 

c. Understand the roles and jurisdiction of Federal agencies in a WMD event. 

d. Be able to recognize a terrorist incident and identify evidence that could be useful to the 

investigation of the crime scene. Ensure that vital information and intelligence is shared 

with the appropriate agencies and managers. 

VI. Know how to interface and integrate emergency support services and resources that 

will be needed (or are needed) among the Emergency Operations Center, the on-scene 

incident management team, and public works facilities and agencies. Be familiar with 

the coordination functions and procedures that are to be conducted by public works 

with the Emergency Operations Center to support on-scene emergency response 

activities. The public works supervisors and managers should: 

a. Know how to develop and assist in implementation of mutual aid protocols for hazardous 

materials and WMD incidents within agency jurisdiction. 

b. Know how to develop and coordinate training of public works directors, supervisors, and 

staff in WMD response planning, their participation in response planning efforts, and in the 

exercise of the plan as it is related to the duties and functions to be performed by public 

works. This will also include cross-training technical public works support personnel. 

c. Know how to manage the handling of contaminated debris for evidentiary and safety 

purposes. 

d. Be familiar with the methodologies for vehicle and equipment restoration after 

decontamination procedures have been completed. 

e. Assist in the integration of volunteers, local community groups, and individuals with 

needed expertise and in training of these potential responding agencies and organizations. 

f. Understand the benefits of advanced electronics utilization for public works facilities. 

g. Know how to develop public works teams to support the Urban Search and Rescue 

(USAR) teams for potential WMD incidents. 

h. Be able to develop plans, procedures and protocols for emergency response to a WMD 

incident. Manage and coordinate the activities of the public works agencies before, during, 

and after a WMD incident. 
66

APPENDIX TO PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT LEVEL 

GUIDELINES 

Skilled Support and Specialist Employees 

GUIDELINES FOR SKILLED SUPPORT PERSONNEL AND SPECIALIST 

EMPLOYEES FOR EVENTS INVOLVING WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION 

The emergency response community has a variety of outside sources that it will rely on when 

special circumstances at the scene require some type of assistance that the emergency services 

are not typically skilled in providing. This can occur at a hazardous materials emergency 

response or at a WMD incident. For example, there may be the need for a crane operator or a 

tow truck driver or it could be that a highly technical problem or issue has arisen and the incident 

commander requests assistance to better understand and resolve the problem or issue. In this 

situation a person, who is not an emergency responder but who is highly knowledgeable about 

the topic or issue may be called to the scene. 

The OSHA Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) standard 

already recognizes that these types of individuals may be called to the scene to assist in the 

mitigation, control, or other aspects to aid the Incident Commander, as necessary. HAZWOPER 

rules include provisions for Skilled Support Personnel, who have expertise in particular activities 

that are needed in the response, but that cannot be performed promptly by the responding units, 

such as crane operators or tow truck drivers. These persons are not expected to be trained 

emergency responders, nor are they expected to have prior training in accordance with 

HAZWOPER guidelines. Because it is likely that these persons will be exposed to the hazards at 

the emergency response scene, they should receive appropriate on-scene briefing with respect to 

safety and health protections. 

Generally speaking, the skilled support persons are asked to come to fulfill a particular task. 

They should be briefed on safety and health hazards they may encounter. They should also be 

briefed on the types of control measures that the incident commander wants them to follow. 

Typically, these persons understand the hazards they face in doing their job on a normal day. 

This briefing is intended to alert them about extraordinary or unusual hazards that they may face 

and procedures to help protect them. No one will be asking someone to perform a job task that 

the person cannot be reasonably protected from on-scene hazards, although there may or will still 

be some risk involved. 

Specialist employees are those that have knowledge and expertise regarding particular hazards, 

equipment, processes, or chemicals that may be present at the emergency incident scene. The 

incident commander would like to have the benefit of their wisdom on the given subject. These 

personnel are expected to provide technical advice and assistance to the incident commander and 

it is assumed that they generally will not be exposed to hazards on the scene. However, certain 

experts or specialist employees of railroad companies or chemical manufacturers may have been 

trained to work in Level A suits, if necessary. These personnel should receive training, and each 

year, demonstrate their competency in the area of their specialization. 
67

For more definitive guidance, NFPA 472 specifically addresses this category of an individual 

who may be sent to the scene. NFPA 472 defines two categories of such responders—Private 

Sector Specialist Employees B and Specialist Employees C. Competencies are listed for both 

categories based on the prerequisite that all such individuals receive first response awareness 

level training. A distinction is drawn between category B and C with respect to additional 

training for category C specialists based on the assumption that these personnel may be required 

to work in the hot or warm zones. 

Once emergency response operations are concluded and recovery and cleanup operations begin, 

those workers involved in these activities will not be considered emergency response workers 

and will be covered by other OSHA requirements. This appendix addresses only those workers 

called to the emergency scene to render some assistance to the incident commander, the Unified 

Command team, and the response team that is on scene. 

Training Guidelines for Emergency Response “Skilled Support Personnel” and “Specialist 

Employees” in a WMD Incident Response: 

I. Skilled Support Personnel: Skilled support personnel who may be called on to perform 

many functions in a WMD emergency response and who are the ones that will be relied upon in 

the local emergency response plan should receive awareness training, at the very least. It is 

suggested that these skilled support personnel receive the Awareness Level for Public Works 

Personnel for Events Involving Weapons of Mass Destruction guidelines provided to public 

works agency employees before they have to respond to a WMD incident.

II. Specialist Employees: Specialist employees may be called upon in a WMD incident 

response to provide information and technical advise unique to their particular specialty, or they 

may be asked to perform some specific tasks that they are expert in performing that the incident 

commander needs to be undertaken at the scene. These specialist employees are to receive 

annual training in their area of expertise. They also should be trained in how to work within an 

incident command system. It is suggested that these specialist employees be given as a 

minimum the Emergency Management Awareness Level for Emergency Management 

Personnel for Events Involving Weapons of Mass Destruction guidelines provided to 

emergency management employees before they have to respond to a WMD incident. 

Personnel expected to wear chemical protective clothing and perform unique tasks in the hot 

zone will need additional training beyond the awareness level guidelines. It is suggested that 

these specialist employees receive at a minimum the HazMat Performance Level for HazMat 

Responders for Events Involving Weapons of Mass Destruction guidelines before they have 

to respond to a WMD incident. 
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GLOSSARY OF TERMS 

AGENCY: An agency is a division of government with a specific function, or a nongovernmental organization (e.g., private contractor, business, etc.) that offers a particular kind of 

assistance. In Incident Command System (ICS), agencies are defined as jurisdictional (having 

statutory responsibility for incident mitigation), or assisting and/or cooperating (providing 

resources and/or assistance). (See Assisting Agency, Cooperating Agency and Multi-agency.) 

ASSESSMENT: (Pre and Post-disaster) (sometimes Hazard, Risk, Damage or Needs 

Assessment) The process of determining the impact of a potential or real disaster or event on a 

society. It addresses the need for preparedness to prevent or mitigate the potential event, and/or 

immediate, emergency measures to save and sustain the lives of survivors, and the possibilities 

for expediting recovery and development. Assessment is an interdisciplinary process undertaken 

in phases and involving data gathering surveys and the collation, evaluation and interpretation of 

information from various sources concerning both direct and indirect estimated and/or real 

losses, short- and long-term effects. It involves determining what could happen and/or what has 

happened and what assistance might be needed, but also defining objectives and how relevant 

assistance can actually be provided to the victims. It requires attention to both short-term needs 

and long-term implications. 

ASSISTANCE: The provision on a humanitarian basis of material aid and services necessary to 

enable people to meet their basic needs for shelter, clothing, water and food. Assistance is 

available for extended periods, unlike relief supplies and services that are provided, free of 

charge, in the period immediately following a crisis. 

BUDDY SYSTEM: A means of pairing up or organizing workers to work as a team usually in 

pairs where each is to lookout for the wellbeing of the other team member as they perform their 

assigned tasks. 

COLD ZONE: Represents the outer boundary of an emergency incident and an area of the least 

potential for contaminant exposure to workers and others. It is generally an area intended to act 

as a buffer to keep persons not involved in the response away from the incident at a safe 

distance. 

COMMAND POST: (See Incident Command Post) 

CHEMTREC: The Chemical Transportation Emergency Center is a service of the American 

Chemistry Council. It provides a 24-hour, seven days a week technical information service on 

chemicals that could be involved in emergencies throughout the United States and elsewhere. 

CHRONIC EXPOSURE: This is where there is a long duration of time in a contaminant 

atmosphere or repeated exposures to the contaminant that can cause adverse health effects. 

These adverse health effects usually manifest themselves after a long period of time from 

multiple exposures to the contaminant. 
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COMMAND: The act of directing and/or controlling resources at an incident by virtue of 

explicit legal, agency, or delegated authority. May also refer to the Incident Commander. 

CRITICAL INCIDENT STRESS MANAGEMENT (CISM) Critical incident stress is a 

normal response of a healthy person to an abnormal event. Management is conducted through 

processes like defusing, debriefing and demobilization. The process takes a comprehensive, 

systematic and multi-component approach. 

CRITIQUE: A meeting or discussion of the pros and cons of how an emergency response 

incident was conducted by those who participated in the response. This is an element of the 

termination process of an emergency response that is conducted at the conclusion of the 

emergency incident’s response efforts. 

DECONTAMINATION: The process of removing or reducing the level of contaminants on 

persons, tools, supplies and equipment. It is generally used to remove harmful levels of 

contaminants that will adversely affect human health or wellbeing. 

DEGRADATION: The destruction of equipment such as chemical protective clothing and 

monitoring instruments that is caused by chemical or physical decomposition of such equipment 

or its components. 

EMERGENCY MANAGER: The individual within each jurisdiction that is delegated the dayto-day responsibility for the development, testing, exercising and revising the emergency 

operations plan and maintenance of all emergency management coordination efforts. 

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT: The organized analysis, planning, decision making, 

assignment, and coordination to available resources to the mitigation of, preparedness for, 

response to, or recovery from emergencies of any kind, whether man-made or natural sources. 

EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER (EOC): A location from which centralized 

emergency management can be performed, generally by civil government officials (municipal, 

county, State and Federal). EOC facilities are established by an agency or jurisdiction to 

coordinate the overall agency or jurisdictional response and to provide support for the control or 

mitigation of an emergency. 

EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN (EOP): A State or local document that describes 

actions to be taken in the event of natural disasters, technological accidents, or weapons of mass 

destruction attack. It identifies authorities, relationships, and the actions to be taken by whom, 

what, when, and where, based on predetermined assumptions, objectives, and existing 

capabilities. 

EMERGENCY RESPONSE: Those organized actions taken by trained people to assist in 

controlling and/or reducing the level of losses and associated human suffering that has or could 

have resulted from an emergency incident. 
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EMERGENCY RESPONSE AGENCY: Any organization responding to an emergency, or 

providing mutual aid support to such an organization, whether in the field, at the scene of an 

incident, or to an emergency operations center. 

EMERGENCY RESPONSE PERSONNEL: Personnel involved with an agency's response to 

an emergency. 

EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN: A written document that sets forth the tasks or actions 

that are to be taken once an emergency incident is reported to have occurred. The emergency 

response plan will usually contain contingency plans for the various types of emergencies that 

are anticipated to be encountered. 

FULL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING: This means that the person is fully covered from head to 

foot in a protective envelope of clothing materials and includes a respiratory protective device 

that is to prevent or minimize exposure to the contaminant and injury to the person involved in 

emergency response operations. 

HAZARD ANALYSIS: The identification of the potential for and the magnitude of an 

occurrence of a given hazard causing an emergency incident. It contains three basic parts: the 

identification of the hazard, the assessment of the hazard and the controls available that could 

impact the given hazard. There are various methodologies that are typically used to perform this 

work, from relatively unsophisticated methods up to and including very complex methods that 

involve modeling. 

HAZARD ASSESSMENT: An evaluation to identify the likelihood of a specific hazardous 

event’s consequences. It is an evaluated process to measure or estimate the consequences of the 

event if it was to occur. 

HAZARD CONTROL: Any approach or step that is taken to eliminate, prevent or minimize a 

hazard that could lead to an emergency incident or one that could cause an emergency incident to 

become more severe. The steps that could be taken may be personal protective equipment or 

administrative controls up to and including engineering approaches. 

HAZARD IDENTIFICATION: This is the process of identifying the intrinsic properties 

harmful to humans, to process equipment, and/or to the environment that a material has and/or 

that an activity or industrial process has. 

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL: A chemical or substance that is regulated by the U.S. Department 

of Transportation (DOT) because of its inherent nature of being harmful to the public health 

and/or the environment. DOT regulates interstate and intrastate commercial transport of these 

materials. 

HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE: A chemical or material that is regulated by the EPA and/or 

OSHA because of its inherent nature of being harmful to humans and/or the environment.
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HAZWOPER: An OSHA standard 29CFR1910.120 that was required by SARA. It stands for 

“Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response”. 

HOT ZONE: Represents the area with the greatest degree of threat to individuals working in 

that area and requires the highest level of personal protection equipment. This area has to be 

clearly marked with banner tape or a satisfactory substitute to indicate to workers the high 

potential for exposure and thus the greatest level of personal protection. 

INCIDENT ACTION PLAN: The plan developed at the field response level, which contains 

objectives reflecting the overall incident strategy and specific tactical actions, and supporting 

information for the next on-scene operational period. The plan may be oral or written. 

INCIDENT COMMAND POST (ICP): The location at which the primary command functions 

are executed. The ICP may be collocated in the cold zone with the incident base or other 

incident facilities. 

INCIDENT COMMANDER: The individual responsible for the command of all functions at 

the field or on-scene response level related to the management of the emergency event. 

INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM (ICS): An organized, coordinated approach to the control 

and management of emergency response operations at the scene of an emergency event. 

LEPC: An abbreviation for a “Local Emergency Planning Committee” that has been required by 

EPA regulations and by SARA Title III. It is the local community’s committee that the State has 

established that is used to develop and maintain an emergency response plan covering all types 

of emergencies that may occur in the community. 

LIAISON OFFICER: A governmental agency official sent to another agency or organization to 

facilitate interagency communications and coordination. 

NATIONAL CONTINGENCY PLAN (NCP): The general overall emergency planning 

document that is to be used by the Federal agencies of the executive branch in assisting the states 

with handling emergency incidents that occur within the United States or on its borders. The 

National Response Team makes up the membership of the Federal agencies that have a role to 

play in the NCP, and they have created the Federal Regional Response Teams that are located in 

the Federal regional cities so designated. 

NATIONAL RESPONSE CENTER (NRC): A U.S. Coast Guard-operated communications 

center that is located in Washington, D.C. It is the location that all inadvertent or accidental 

spills or releases of reportable quantities or more are to be reported, and it is manned 24 hours a 

day, seven days a week. 

NATIONAL RESPONSE TEAM (NRT): Federal cabinet level agencies and selected 

independent Federal agencies within the Federal government that are involved in assisting in the 

handling of emergency responses to incidents or assisting the states with handling emergency 

incidents. The NRT is co-chaired by EPA and the U.S. Coast Guard. 
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NORTH AMERICAN EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK (NAERG 2000): It was 

developed jointly by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), Transport Canada (TC), and 

the Secretariat of Communications and Transportation of Mexico (SCT) for use by fire fighters, 

police, and other emergency services personnel who may be the first to arrive at the scene of a 

transportation incident involving a hazardous material. It is primarily a guide to aid first 

responders in (1) quickly identifying the specific or generic classification of the material(s) 

involved in the incident, and (2) protecting themselves and the general public during this initial 

response phase of the incident. The NAERG2000 is updated every three years. 

REGIONAL RESPONSE TEAM (RRT): The United States is divided into 10 Federal regions 

and each has a response team made up of members from the same Federal agencies that make up 

the NRT. The RRT interfaces with the states within its region and provides support to the state 

and local community emergency planning and response efforts. 

RISK ANALYSIS: A process or methodology used to evaluate the potential harm that may be 

caused by the inadvertent or purposeful release of a hazardous substance or material outside of 

its containment. The harm may be to humans, property and/or the environment and determined 

by and ranked by the use of probabilities. 

RISK ASSESSMENT (sometimes RISK ANALYSIS): The process of determining the nature 

and scale of the losses or potential losses (due to catastrophes or disasters) that can be anticipated 

in particular areas during a specified time period. Risk assessment involves an analysis and 

combination of both theoretical and empirical data concerning the probabilities of known hazards 

of particular force or intensities occurring in each area (“hazard mapping”); and the losses (both 

physical and functional) expected to result from each element at risk in each area from the 

impact of each potential disaster hazard ("vulnerability analysis and expected loss estimation"). 

SAFETY OFFICER: A member of the Command Staff at the incident or within an EOC 

responsible for monitoring and assessing safety hazards or unsafe situations at the scene of the 

emergency, and for developing measures for ensuring personnel safety. The Safety Officer may 

have assistants. 

SHELTERING IN PLACE: This is the means of protecting the public by asking them to stay 

indoors in their homes and businesses until the danger of a harmful gas cloud or other hazard has 

been determined to have left the area. This determination of when the danger is over is to be 

made by local authorities in charge of the emergency response efforts. 

STAGING AREA: The locations set up at an incident scene where resources can be placed 

while awaiting a tactical assignment. It is also the location where incident personnel and 

equipment are assigned on a three (3) minute available status or immediate deployment to an 

operational site within the disaster area. 

STATE EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN (also State Emergency Response Plan): A 

State plan which is designated specifically for State-level response to emergencies or major 
73

disasters and which sets forth actions to be taken by the State and local governments, including 

those for implementing Federal disaster assistance. 

SUPERFUND AMENDMENTS AND REAUTHORIZATION ACT (SARA): This law 

required among other things the local emergency response planning efforts in every state through 

its Title III “Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act” of SARA. 

TECHNICAL SPECIALISTS: Personnel with special skills who are activated only when 

needed. Technical Specialists may be needed in the areas of fire behavior, water resources, 

environmental or medical concerns, resource use, industrial processes, hazardous chemicals, and 

training areas. 

TERMINATION PROCEDURES: The part of the ICS in which staff and responders are 

involved in the preparation of records and documenting the on-scene management decisions, 

hazard concerns on the scene, and the critique results and discussions. Termination is divided 

into three phases: debriefing the response staff, post-incident analysis and the critiquing of the 

emergency incident. 

TERRORISM: The calculated use of violence or the threat of violence to attain goals that are 

political, religious, or ideological in nature. This can be done through intimidation, coercion, 

and use of violence or instilling fear. Terrorism includes a criminal act against persons or 

property that is intended to influence an audience beyond the immediate victims. 

UNIFIED COMMAND: In ICS, Unified Command is a unified team effort which allows all 

agencies with responsibility for the incident, either geographical or functional, to manage an 

incident by establishing a common set of incident objectives and strategies. This is 

accomplished without losing or abdicating agency authority, responsibility or accountability. 

Typically ICS is used in the early stages of an incident, but if it growths substantially larger then 

the unified command is created at the top to manage the overall incident. 

VULNERABILITY ANALYSIS (or assessment): The process of estimating the vulnerability 

to potential disaster hazards of specified elements at risk. For engineering purposes, 

vulnerability analysis involves the analysis of theoretical and empirical data concerning the 

effects of particular phenomena on particular types of structures. For more general 

socioeconomic purposes, it involves consideration of all significant elements in society, 

including physical, social and economic considerations (both short- and long-term), and the 

extent to which essential services (and traditional and local coping mechanisms) are able to 

continue functioning. 

WARM ZONE: Represents an area of less potential for contaminant exposure to workers and is 

the zone that contains the decontamination area. The decontamination activity is located on the 

upwind and upgrade side and extends from the hot zone to the cold zone. This area may also be 

used to support the responders with miscellaneous equipment needs such as changing air bottles 

and replacing worn or damaged PPE. Exiting from the hot zone will be accomplished by going 

through the decontamination steps. 
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TRAINING COURSES BY OFFERING AGENCY 

COURSE BY LEVEL 

AGENCY/ ORGANIZATION 

AWARENESS - Awareness Emergency Response to Terrorism: Basic Concepts (ERT: BC) NFA & DOJ/ODP ERT: BC Train-the-Trainer NFA & DOJ/ODP IEMC/Consequence of Terrorism EMI CSEPP Chemical Awareness EMI (CSEPP) Law Enforcement Response to WMD Incidents DOJ/ODP Law Enforcement Response to WMD Incidents Train-the-Trainer DOJ/ODP Sheriff's Basic WMD Awareness Course DOJODP Hospital Emergency Management: Concepts and Implications of WMD Incidents DOJ/ODP & HHS The Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response - National Public Health Training Plan CDC PERFORMANCE - Operations ERT: Tactical Considerations - Hazardous Materials (ERT: TC-HM) NFA ERT: Tactical Considerations - Emergency Medical Services (ERT: TC-EMS) NFA ERT: Tactical Considerations - Company Officer (ERT: TC-CO) NFA ERT: Job Aid NFA IEMC/Hazardous Materials: Preparedness and Response EMI Radiological Emergency Response Operations (RERO) EMI Advanced Public Information Officers EMI Incident Response to Terrorist Bombings DOJ/ODP Emergency response to Terrorism: Operations DOJ/ODP Chemical Protective Clothing Course DOJ/ODP Emergency Response to Domestic Biological Incidents 

DOJ/ODP & HHS/FBI/CDC 

EMS Operations and Planning for WMD DOJ/ODP Operations - WMD/Crime Scene Management * DOJ/ODP & FBI Responder Operations Radiological/Nuclear Agents Course DOJ/ODP Public Works for WMD Operations DOJ/ODP WMD HazMat Tactical Operations * DOJ/ODP & FBI 
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PERFORMANCE - Technician Advanced Radiological Incident Operations (ARIO) EMI WMD Hazardous Materials Technician DOJ/ODP Advanced Radiological/Nuclear Agents Course DOJ/ODP Domestic Preparedness Equipment Technical Assistance Program DOJ/ODP Technician - WMD/HazMat Evidence Collection * DOJ/ODP & FBI Laboratory Training for Public Health and Clinical Laboratories CDC Hazardous Devices School - EOD/Bomb Technicians FBI 

ERT: Advanced Tactical Management: Mass Decon/Patient Mgmt NFA ACT FAST (Agent Characterization and Toxicity First Aid and Special Treatment) EMI (CSEPP) 

Hospital Emergency Department Management of Hazardous Materials Accidents EMI Fundamentals Course for Radiological Response EMI 

Radiological Series Train-the-Trainer EMI Radiological Emergency Response Operations (RERO) EMI RADWORKER 1 DOE Handling of Radiological Accidents by Emergency Personnel DOE Health Physics in Radiological Accidents DOE Medical Planning & Care in Radiological Accidents DOE Modular Emergency Response Radiation Transportation Training Blocks DOE 

Block 1A: First Responders at the Scene of a transportation Incident Involving Radiological Materials DOE Block 1B: First Responders Entering Transportation Incident Scene Involving Radiological Materials to Perform Rescue Only DOE Block 2A: First Responders Enter Transportation Incident Scene Involving Radiological Materials to Take Defensive Action DOE Block 2B: First Responders Entering Transportation Incident Scene Involving Radiological Materials and do Gross Monitoring DOE Block 3A: First Responders Entering Transportation Incident Scene Involving Radiological Materials to take Offensive Actions DOE Block 3B: Responders on the Offense-Entering Transportation Incident Scene Involving Radiological Materials DOE Block 4: Incident Command of Transportation Incident Involving Radiological Materials DOE 

PLANNING/MANAGEMENT/COMMAND ERT: Strategic Considerations for Command Officers (ERT: TC-SCCO) NFA ERT: Incident Management (ERT: IM) NFA ERT: Advanced Tactical Management of WMD * NFA (Consists of 3 stand-alone modules: Unified Command, Mass Patient Management, and Tactical Information Management) NFA IEMC/All Hazards: Preparedness and Response EMI/NFA IEMC/All Hazards: Recovery and Mitigation EMI 
76

PLANNING/MANAGEMENT/COMMAND (Continued) Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) Planning EMI Recovery from Disaster EMI Exercise Development DOJ/ODP & EMI/DOE WMD Incident Command DOJ/ODP WMD Incident Management/Unified Command DOJ/ODP Senior Officials' Workshop DOJ/ODP Mayor's Executive Seminar DOJ/ODP Threat and Risk Assessment - Jurisdiction DOJ/ODP Terrorism Annex Planning Course EMI Integrated Emergency Management Course (IEMC): Consequences of Terrorism EMI IEMC/Hazardous Materials: Preparedness and Response EMI Exercise Design EMI Exercise Evaluation EMI Emergency Response to Criminal and terrorist Incidents EMI Senior Officials Workshop on Terrorism EMI Weapons of Mass Destruction: Nuclear Scenario EMI 

Weapons of Mass Destruction: Radiological Scenario EMI Weapons of Mass Destruction: Chemical--Sarin Scenario EMI Weapons of Mass Destruction: Chemical--Vx Scenario EMI Weapons of Mass Destruction: Biological--Anthrax Scenario EMI 

VIDEOS Surviving Weapons of Mass Destruction DOJ/ODP Weapons of Mass Destruction and the First Responder DOJ/ODP 

Surviving the Secondary Device: The Rules Have Changed DOJ/ODP Responding to a WMD/HazMat Crime Scene * DOJ/ODP Using the ICS in a WMD Incident * DOJ/ODP Unified Command in a WMD Incident * DOJ/ODP Satellite course developed with USAMRIID on bioterrorism. Broadcasted September 1999 and 2000. HHS/DOD 

DISTANCE LEARNING ERT: Self-Study (ERT:SS) - Internet NFA & DOJ/ODP Incident Command System Self-Study NFA 
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DISTANCE LEARNING (Continued) First Responder HazMat/WMD Operations NFA Radiological Emergency Management EMI Radiological Emergency Response EMI Refresher Course for Radiological Response EMI Orientation of Hazardous Materials for Medical Personnel EMI Terrorism Awareness for Emergency First Responders - Internet DOJ/ODP Emergency Medical Service * - Internet DOJ/ODP WMD Awareness for Public Works - Internet DOJ/ODP The Public Health Training Network - Internet CDC  (Offering distance learning to the public health community http://www.cdc.gov/phtn/  Live streaming videos managed by CDC - on website  (http://www.bt.cdc.gov/learningresourses.asp) BTtv - advertisement and promotion of live streaming video courses sponsored by CDC concerning bioterrorism CDC HIGHER EDUCATION Terrorism and Emergency Management EMI * Course still in development