The Marine Chemical and Biological Response Force (MCBRF) responds to chemical and biological incidents worldwide. They assist local civilian agencies with consequence management, service support, and expert medical advice. MCBRF has the ability to combat the increasing threat of chemical/biological terrorists.
One type is the NBC Warning and Reporting System. It utilizes a variety of communication links in order to transmit information about a chemical agent.
The Material Safety Data Sheet or MSDS is a legal document which lists the hazards and flammability of chemical. Usually, the MSDS lists the reactivity of the substance. It also lists the substance's zoning restrictions. This document serves as a guideline and information for emergency responders.
A quantitative dose response relationship is the relationship between a specific dose of a substance (and its adverse effects) and a certain dose. This is crucial to public safety because it allows for estimation of the likelihood of a particular effect.
The National Contingency Plan, a federal law, establishes three levels for responding to incidents involving hazardous substances. Each level has its own set of responsibilities. The responsibilities include creating an inventory of potentially hazardous substances within a facility, performing a Hazard Identification, and developing an Emergency Plan. These functions are performed jointly by the Area Emergency Management coordinator and the Branch Office responsible for the specific area.
Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (SARA), is the reauthorization of Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act. SARA is designed to lower the risk of being exposed to hazardous substances. Title III adds new authorities to toxic chemicals release reporting. These new authorities include Community Right-to-Know reporting.
The CDC is a nation-wide health agency that conducts investigations and provides health education. It is the leading agency protecting Americans' healthcare. It funds 35,000 research initiatives in the nation.
An MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) is one of most essential documents that any responder should obtain. The MSDS contains information such as a description and safety instructions, as well its flammability and reactivity. After completion, the MSDS should be submitted at the SERC.
There are many regulatory and legal authorities available to help you handle hazardous chemicals. The Geneva Protocol was signed in 1925 by the United States and ratified by Congress by 1975. This treaty forbids the use or any bacteriological method of warfare in conflict. The protocol has been effective in reducing the use these agents in combat, but it doesn't prevent other countries developing chemical weapons.
The National Institutes of Health is another important entity. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides funding for innovative technologies research and testing, as well as helping to protect Americans' health. Additionally, it operates the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC implements measures to control illness such as surveillance, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.