Hazmat/WMD Self Protection for Law Enforcement

It is impossible to anticipate when law enforcement personnel may have to respond to terrorist threats or incidents involving weapons of mass destruction. Every law enforcement agency must be prepared to effectively respond to terrorist threats, and part of that preparation is training personnel on the selection, inspection, fitting and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). This online training discusses the types of threats law enforcement personnel may encounter, explains the types of protective ensembles and respiratory protection equipment appropriate for environments where chemicals, radiological particles, biological agents and hazardous vapors may be found.

This Video On Demand explains routes of exposure, acute and chronic exposure and local and systemic damage that may occur from exposure to hazardous substances. Importantly, it discusses the challenges wearing PPE presents to law enforcement officers, who may find their dexterity, tactility, vision, hearing and other senses diminished by the essential gear. Decontamination procedures are thoroughly covered, including the need to first surrender their weapons, and the proper procedure for removing protective clothing.

Shielding law enforcement personnel from hazardous materials and contamination from weapons of mass destruction allows officers to perform their duties in the midst of chaos and crisis. They should be thoroughly familiar with the types of PPE, how to inspect the equipment, know the warning signs of PPE malfunctions, and be aware of symptoms of heat-related illnesses. They must also understand the physical limitations wearing PPE may present. Before they can assist and protect others, law enforcement personnel must first protect themselves and one another. Viewing this video will drive home the vital role PPE plays in emergency situations, and the importance of being fit and ready for any emergency situation.

   This course is in the Video On Demand format, to read about Video On Demand features click here.

All law enforcement personnel

• Introduction
• Chemical Exposure
• Respiratory Protection
• Protective Clothing
• Donning & Doffing
• Conclusion