Argon’s training systems strengthen firefighters’ HazMat response skills

The rising threat of domestic and state sponsored terrorist related HazMat and CBRNe threats, the prevalent technological advances in the nuclear energy sector and the increased use and transportation of toxic industrial chemicals growth around the world are all forcing fire departments to make some very big changes to the way that they train and prepare.

In this article we explore how and why fire departments and agencies in the USA and worldwide have adopted specialized training solutions to hone their disaster response skills to ensure readiness in facing new threats and scenarios.

Fire departments are responding to more HazMat events ranging from personal lithium-ion battery transportation fires to major incidents on a more frequent basis than ever before. In addition to the standard risk associated with depleted oxygen and explosive atmosphere, the range of potential threats that firefighters may need to handle from toxic industrial materials (TIMs) such as ammonia, chlorine or hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and radioactive sources to weaponized toxic industrial chemicals (TICs) and potentially chemical warfare agents like Sarin (GB) or the nerve agent VX, is extensive.

A lack of effective, realistic HazMat training can put multiple lives at risk. As modern day threats and emergencies become increasingly complex, access to realistic, hands-on training is more important than ever. Giving emergency teams proper access to the right equipment is equally essential, as it supports their effective and confident response to any potential act of terror, major public incident or emerging threat.

So, how can fire chiefs ensure that their teams can receive the best quality, most realistic HazMat and CBRN response training and remain safe? Lack of preparation, or at least, using outmoded techniques and equipment in training sessions causes significant threats to safety during serious incidents, both to fire departments, other emergency responders and those they are seeking to protect and rescue. It is essential to take advantage of the ever-evolving technology and specialist knowledge available to pursue the very highest standards possible in training of this nature.

Accurately replicating the environmental, physiological and psychological challenges of real-life terror threats is also a key contributor to emergency preparedness. Technological advancements are making it straightforward for fire services to introduce powerful simulator detector technology that safely recreates dangerous scenarios with alarming, yet essential accuracy. From the sights, sounds and smells that fire fighters will encounter to the equipment they will need, simulation-based HazMat exercises offer a comprehensive experience building important muscle memory. 

Technological advancements and heightened awareness of emerging threats have driven US agencies—including the Department of Energy and Department of Defense—to adopt Argon Electronics’ simulation technology. Now further enhanced for First Responder applications, our solutions are ideally suited to support fire departments in meeting their training requirements.

The UK-based leader in the development and manufacture of CBRNe and HazMat detector simulators is seeing a strong increase in demand for its simulators and training solutions from emergency services, law enforcement agencies and defense customers across the USA and further afield. 

With the collaboration of world leading detector manufacturers Argon is building on its portfolio of simulators with the aim of covering as many hazardous and emergency scenarios as possible. The company’s growth has also been expediated by working with partners – experts in their own field – such as Dräger. This partnership has brought forth the X-am 2x00/5x00 series simulator. This is a ground-breaking MultiGAS detection training device that represents a significant step forward in safety training. It prepares fire fighters, emergency services, and military personnel to effectively handle real-world incidents involving dangerous gases, while minimizing risks and costs. The Smiths Detection LCD3.3, Mirion Accurad, Thermo RadEye and Ludlums range of simulators are further examples of Argon’s training solutions.

The risks associated with responding to radiological incidents are especially difficult to train for. While low activity sources can be deployed, they provide no opportunity for responders to experience and understand the implication of seeing turnback readings or the consequences of exceeding their personal doserate limits. 

Running these types of exercises with live detectors and sources comes with far higher risks, regulatory constraints and costs involved. Argons’ simulated detectors are impressively realistic and do not require calibration, sensor consumption or preventative maintenance. By using Argon’s solutions, training sessions can include great detail about how to react to, contain and control CBRNe related situations involving hazardous materials and substances.

Being able to physically handle the measurement devices, understand the importance of the readings and practice using them in the field is invaluable to any fire fighter, soldier or person working in HazMat and CBRNe incidents. Regulatory concerns and budgetary restrictions greatly restrict the use of real instruments and live substances. Simulated, yet realistic training experience gives participants the knowledge and tools to not only use the devices they need, but to get a sense of what it feels like being in a dangerous situation and to learn the best way to react and take control.

Argon’s LCD3.3 and AP4C chemical detector simulators react to safe electronic sources that simulate toxic industrial substances, chemical vapors or false positives. This enables responders to experience realistic and comprehensive training experience without the risks associated with becoming exposed to live chemical agents or toxic training simulants. Instructors can readily simulate the effects of partial or full decontamination, persistency and wind direction. Developed with the support of the US Department of Energy, Argon’s groundbreaking simulation gamma sources have transformed radiological response exercises.

Providing training participants with highly realistic emergency scenarios, while ensuring their complete safety throughout each exercise, is a crucial requirement of any organization. 

Argon Electronics is based in the UK and is a global leader in the development and manufacture of CBRNe and HazMat detector simulators. Its simulators have transformed CBRNe and HazMat training globally, allowing organizations working in fire, military, defense and emergency services to set up and run safe, environmentally friendly training exercises where, when and how they want.