What is the laboratory’s role in responding to a chemical attack (or an accidental release)?
The laboratory will be called upon to test environmental samples (air, water, wipes, powders, etc.). Environmental samples will be used to identify the agent, to define the contamination zone, to test whether decontamination of individuals and areas is being effectively performed, and to verify that conditions are safe for re-entry. The laboratory also will process human specimens (e.g., blood, urine). Identification of the agent or its metabolite in the human specimen will confirm any environmental data. Additionally, since many agents dissipate rapidly or are highly reactive, and sample collection may not be a high priority immediately after an attack, these specimens may provide the only identification of the agent. Since the clinical specimens can give a direct measurement of an individual’s exposure, these specimens may assist in medical treatment. However, the time delays associated with specimen collection, transport, and testing mean that the data only will become available day
