How will BUMC ensure first responders have the expertise and training necessary to respond to an incident at the NEIDL?
In November 2008, nearly 400 first responders, including representatives from Boston’s Emergency Medical Service, Fire and Police, Inspectional Services Department, Public Health Commission, Homeland Security, Transportation Department and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health participated in a series of orientation sessions organized by the Boston Public Health Commission. During the sessions, no research was conducted and live research agents were not used at the NEIDL. In addition, it is anticipated that training exercises with BUMC researchers, technicians, laboratory safety personnel, Public Safety personnel and, city, state and federal safety and regulatory agencies and community residents will begin in mid-February 2009. The training exercises will provide the opportunity for scientists and city, state, and federal agencies to develop, test, and practice safety and emergency response procedures. The training period will also provide an opportunity for the community to le
