Understanding the basic concepts used in emergency preparedness and response for radiological releases in emergency services. This course will follow the basic concepts for,

• Assessments of hazards and radiation protection
• Exposure pathways and protective actions
• IAP and protection strategies
• Basic decon concepts

The important services provided by CANUTEC will be detailed, as it applies to their support during dangerous goods incidents. The effective use of the Emergency Response Guide (ERG) will be presented, outlining the value of this resource during the initial phase of a dangerous goods transportation emergency. A simulated event will be presented, and a telephone call will be made to CANUTEC to display the nature of their support.

Risk Assessment Using FTIR Gas Identification is a session discussing the challenges that responders face when conducting risk assessment during initial entries into a contamination zone at an incident. In order to determine potential risk, one must first identify hazards associated with the atmosphere which is why various air monitoring technologies are deployed on the initial entry. The problem is that traditional 5-gas instruments use sensors that are designed to only measure concentration of a target gas with some sensors capable of using correlation factors to provide a relative response in the presence of cross-sensitive gases or vapors. In order to take advantage of these correlation factors, to know the actual concentration in the atmosphere, one must know the identity of the contaminate. With the introduction of a new instrument to our market, the XplorIR from RedWave Technology, a significant technology gap is being filled and the problem of identifying the contaminates in atmosphere is being solved. In this session we will discuss the limitations of current air monitoring technology and how we can use this new technology to expand the capability of our other monitors to better assess hazards in the atmosphere and enhance our risk assessment.

Pesticides are becoming a more prevalent problem for hazardous materials responders. Historically organophosphate pesticides have been the culprit in medical emergencies and suicides. Recently there has been a surge in new pesticide development due to the continuous cycle of regulation and restrictions. Pesticides on the market now include carbamates, pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, and others. Often pesticides affect the nervous system, but in different ways. Identification of the pesticide is critical to patient treatment and keeping responders safe. We will discuss many recent incidents involving pesticide exposures and gather the lessons learned. We will examine the identification tools we have in our toolbox to detect and identify pesticides at a range of concentrations. We will look at both the acute and chronic hazards of pesticide exposure to the public and first responders and come up with strategies and tactics, so we are prepared to handle the incidents involving pesticides we will undoubtedly be dispatched to.

Since the introduction of synthetic AFFFs in the 1960s, firefighters and other hazmat responders have had effective agents for extinguishing flammable liquid fires. Unfortunately, and unknown to responders until recent years, these agents contained “forever chemicals” within their formulation, which are bio-accumulative in flora and fauna and environmentally persistent in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Some of these chemicals, particularly a class of fluorinated compounds known as PFAS, have been linked to cancers, liver disease, decreased immune function and vaccine response, low birth weight and other birth defects. We will look at the chemical nature of fluorosurfactants, why they are effective in AFFFs, and how the same properties that make them effective also increase their toxicity. In the last few years, in response to limits or outright bans on the use of foams containing PFAS, manufacturers have been introducing FFFs, or Fluorine-Free Foams. Much of the review and study of FFFs has focused on their effectiveness in comparison to the products they are replacing in the market. Questions which have garnered less attention include; “are they less toxic and safer, or simply toxic and dangerous in different ways?”; and “are they in fact free of fluorine?” We will present third-party studies of the toxicity of legacy foams and the newer FFFs which may help answer some of these questions. We will discuss the nature of what it means for a substance to be non-toxic, and examine common greenwashing terms which can confuse what is a very simple concept for which authoritative third-party certifications exist. To date, most research and development for effective alternatives to PFAS-containing foams have been limited to foams, to the exclusion of other forms of safe, effective agents. One such emerging class of agents is fire protection hydrogels. We will look at the chemistry of hydrogels, their extinguishing action on Class A and Class B fires, and their unique properties which offer advantages for spill containment. The life-cycle cost of use of hydrogels vs AFFF or FFF will be examined from the perspective of the responding agency, the property owner, and the insurance carrier. Beyond the immediate cost of use, life-cycle costs will include property decontamination, disposal, and the potential avoidance of fines or litigation.

Drones are rapidly becoming common place in public safety. This program will demonstrate use cases for various drone systems, including aerial and ground robots for CBRNE and HAZMAT incidents, both indoor and outdoor. This session will have live demonstrations and case studies, as well as showcase operational capabilities and preplanning initiatives utilizing drone platforms.

David will speak to why active rinsing principals out performs passive water washing when treating workplace chemical exposure injuries. He will speak to the benefits and limitations of passive water rinsing and why water lacks the key properties to effectively manage aggresive acidic/basic ions that have begun to diffuse into cutaneous and ocular tissue cells.

Pharmaceutical-Based Agents (PBAs) and Fourth Generation Agents (FGAs) represent the current generation of chemical warfare threats. These threats have evolved from the first generation where gases were used, to the second generation where liquids with varying levels of volatility were used, until today, where a majority of PBAs and FGAs are aerosolized (or particle-based) threats. These threats tend to be far more challenging operationally and persistent environmentally. As we evolve towards this new threat space, modifications are required to the ways we protect, detect, and decontaminate.

The session will demonstrate how the appropriate PPE choices are dependent on the determination of risk: droplets vs airborne vs contact. Once PPE is determined, we will detail the correct donning and doffing steps, providing an understanding that improper procedures can increase the risk of cross contamination. Additionally, the discussion will lead to concerns of decontamination and how decontamination is appropriate for contamination, but not for exposure.

Ammonia is all around us and responses to releases are common. Yet, if you ask around, every Hazmat team responds differently. In this session, we will discuss the intent of ammonia monitoring (PPE selection, flammability, or toxicity) and which options are available depending on the mission at hand. The results of an ammonia air monitoring study will be presented and participants will be able to discuss how it would influence their response.

Part 1 of 2. The interplay of identification equipment comes into clear focus in this hands-on workshop where we look at the effect of chemical class, concentration, and the complexity of mixtures on identification. Mass spectrometry is a relatively new technology to most hazmat technicians and we will examine its role in conjunction with traditional bulk identifiers such as Raman and FTIR. The contents of your detection toolbox often make the difference between success and failure. Come see for yourself what the capabilities and limitations of the different technologies are, and how to make sure you don't run into a capability gap on your team.

Part 1 of 2 - Theory: Chlorine toxicology; Metering; PPE; Chlorine Decon; Emergency Response to Chlorine incidents for first responders and dealing with emergency response contractors. Maximum class size of 30 Attendees.

This session will cover the transition from expensive elastomers and thermoplastics to lightweight, multi-layered film composites in the protective clothing world. It will cover EPA levels of protection and some of the misperceptions associated with these levels. Testing methods, degradation vs penetration vs permeation and the addition of component testing including gloves, visor, seams, interfaces. NFPA Standards and the recent combination of 1991, 1992 and 1994. Discussion on the differences in Level A vs Class 1. Pros and cons of additional garment taping will be discussed as well as improved overall garment designs.

This session will walk you through the Dangers of Clandestine Drug Labs from a Response to Recovery prospective. The dangers are greatly accelerated after Police have extracted evidence and look to the Response Company to remove items that are not designed to be touched or moved.

PSHSA would develop scenarios (number TBD), and session participants would run through the scenarios to determine how they would advise the worker. Scenarios would include those that

• Do and do not represent a significant exposure
• Do and do not require MBTA application
• Require MBTA application to go to Consent and Capacity Board for an order.

On August 14, 2019, London Fire responded to calls for a MVC, where a car had gone into a house. Within 12 minutes of arriving on-scene, natural gas leaking into the structure caused a huge explosion, pushing fire and debris hundreds of meters in all directions. Beyond reviewing monitoring basics, this training session will take a deep dive into that day's events, providing firsthand accounts of why natural gas incidents continue to be a significant hazard to all responders.

Part 2 of 2. The interplay of identification equipment comes into clear focus in this hands-on workshop where we look at the effect of chemical class, concentration, and the complexity of mixtures on identification. Mass spectrometry is a relatively new technology to most hazmat technicians and we will examine its role in conjunction with traditional bulk identifiers such as Raman and FTIR. The contents of your detection toolbox often make the difference between success and failure. Come see for yourself what the capabilities and limitations of the different technologies are, and how to make sure you don't run into a capability gap on your team.

Part 2 of 2 - Practical: Cylinders, Tonners & Railcars. Capping Kits A + B + C and Midland kit. Maximum class size of 30 Attendees.

During this session we will explore and discuss the importance of psychological preparedness in all stages of an incident for responders, leaders, and command staff. We will share the importance of incorporating these principals and practices into training, pre-deployment, deployment, and post incident response including supports and resources. Will discuss at each stage the importance of incorporating these principals into your policies, procedures, and standing operating procedures. As well as things that we can do to identify, and mitigate a stress response.

So you're reading 102 ppm on your PID? Should you be worried? The session will cover how PIDs functions, their limitations and applications. We will also discuss the different types of PIDs, their advantages and how they may be deployed during operations.

LPG live fire props will be used that simulate situations encountered in the field when facing a leak and a fire on a propane tank. Proper cooling techniques, safety valves, shut-offs, pressure relief valves and leak control and extinguishment techniques are reviewed and practiced throughout the session. Class size is limited to 15 persons. You will be required to bring your Full Firefighting gear (exception- SCBAs will be supplied at site) [Part 1 of 2]

Developed by responders, for responders; Above the Line/below the Line is the foundational, patented system that started it all. This training takes the typically complex world of Hazardous materials/Chemical Response and simplifies it for street level responder. Using Above the Line/Below© charts students are taught to efficiently size-up any chemical in minutes, determining the hazards, meters and PPE required for safe and effective response.

The use of detection and monitoring is one of the most important parts of any incident involving a Hazardous Material or fire today. A response organization that does not use detection and monitoring and interpret the results placing themselves and the public in harm's way. The officer in charge can use properly interpreted results to determine scope of incident and public protection options. This class will cover the basics of air monitoring including some of the technologies, terminologies, and operation used during the initial response.

The Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) confiscated 16,100 kg of marijuana and/or synthetic cannabinoids, 2900 kg of cocaine , and approximately 30,000 kg of other drugs. However, in October of 2022, the Canadian Border Service Agency (CBSA) confiscated 2500 kg of opium in Vancouver. Unfortunately, the vast amount of drugs flowing through our communities is not slowing down. While a lot of emphasis is placed on fentanyl and other synthetic opioids, they make up a small percentage of the overarching drug epidemic. However, from a responder safety perspective, the synthetic opioids generally require the largest response element due to issues with aerosolization, medical treatment, and decontamination. This course will focus on the “Hot Topics” in the drug conversation and will provide updated information on the operational threats to the responders.

This session will provide a high-level overview of review of roles and responsibilities, Mandatory Blood Testing Act and tools and resources available to Designated Officers. Time would be planned to allow for questions and answers at the end of the presentation.

This session gives you the opportunity to use your knowledge to identify 10 "unknown" live chemicals (nitric acid, xylene, ammonium hydroxide, etc.). You will utilize metering devices, papers, tubes, matches and wet chemistry to witness true responses to various threats. Class size is limited to 12 persons and will be held off-site.

LPG live fire props will be used that simulate situations encountered in the field when facing a leak and a fire on a propane tank. Proper cooling techniques, safety valves, shut-offs, pressure relief valves and leak control and extinguishment techniques are reviewed and practiced throughout the session. Class size is limited to 15 persons. You will be required to bring your Full Firefighting gear (exception- SCBAs will be supplied at site) [Part 2 of 2]

Developed by responders, for responders; Above the Line/below the Line is the foundational, patented system that started it all. This training takes the typically complex world of Hazardous materials/Chemical Response and simplifies it for street level responder. Using Above the Line/Below© charts students are taught to efficiently size-up any chemical in minutes, determining the hazards, meters and PPE required for safe and effective response.

The session will discuss the components and risk to Emergency First Responders when dealing with Home Made Explosive clan labs. A walk-thru a simulated clan lab and follow-up discussion on observations is included.

• Review of Terrorism in Canada
• Incident Command Systems for CBRNE Events
• Mitigation Strategies for Bomb Threats, Chemical Attacks and Nuclear
• Review of Tactics (Accountability and Entry Control, RECCE, Decon, Extraction, FTT, IC)
• Group Questions: Do we do a snatch and grab or do we isolate the area?
• Hazmat and CBRNE Communication benchmarks, Assigned Tasks (Command, RECCE in hot zone, PAR Status, Decon setup, Emergency Decon Established, FTT established,)
• Practical Table Top Scenario and Group Discussion
• Group Questions

This presentation will start with a very short demonstration of a Raman based detection device just for context and will then continue with a very short (non-scientific) outline of how Raman spectroscopy works to identify target chemicals and where it is being used in different applications. Most of the presentation will focus on the use of Raman spectroscopy in HAZMAT responses, capabilities relative to other techniques, Raman devices available on the market, costs and tradeoffs in device selection and some field 'case' examples of Raman use in HAZMAT response. There will be time allocated following the presentation for some hands-on with an instrument for attendees and questions.

This class provides classroom learning and discussion on the many types of Chemical Suicides being seen today. Whether it is the online purchase of an Exit Kit or research by a person on the techniques of Detergent Suicide, come and learn the various types and appropriate emergency response and decon for various chemical suicides.

The session will discuss safety issues for both operational rail lines as well as the danger and energy at a derailment emergency.

BioTechIQ is a sole source training program that trains responders to implement risk-based response tactics to safely, effectively, and efficiently respond to any potential biological agent, white powder, or unknown. Developed by the creator of HazMatIQ, BioTechIQ follows the same responder-centric approach to train responders on the Biological Response Guide - a proprietary Emergency Response Guide for Biologicals. Through the use of the BRG, responders will learn how to:

1. Quickly identify a potential biological agent, white powder, or unknown
2. Determine the signs, symptoms, exposure route, and incubation period
3. Select proper personal protective equipment (PPE)
4. Choose the correct field and lab detection equipment
5. Select the correct products for decon of patients, responders and equipment.
6. Understand dwell times
7. Use a luminometer detection instrument (PID for protein) to verify decon efficacy.

The session will discuss the components and risk to Emergency First Responders when dealing with Home Made Explosive clan labs. A walk-thru a simulated clan lab and follow-up discussion on observations is included.

The General Infectious Diseases Risk Assessment tool was developed for broader public organizations to help them identify and assess infectious disease risks, develop controls and an action plan to protect workers or others in the workplace. This session would provide an overview of the General Infectious Disease Risk Assessment Tool which follows a two-step hazard management and implementation process that includes two chart tools and three helpful Appendices. Electronic copy of tools and appendices would be provided.

Through case studies we will apply a risk-based response approach to common incidents. We will review the basic air monitoring concepts, limitations and capabilities of these devices, as well as common misconceptions. Furthermore, we will discuss how metering will influence PPE selection, decontamination procedures and how to respond to hazardous material calls. This is a review for every hazmat technician.

The program will follow the recommendations as set by the NFPA 470 standard and discuss the misunderstanding of what ground resistance is and why we do it first. Then, by demonstration, the instructor will show how we set up a grounding field for the damaged container, grounding field for the recovery container and appliances, and how to bond them together. This is an interactive program that will ask the student to discuss the subject. You can bring your ground density meter with you and make sure you know how it works.

Furthering the discussion in the previous Chemical Suicides class, this will be a "live agent" event. Using a "clothed rescue randy", pre plumbed air monitoring lines and 2 Firefighters in SCBA and Bunker gear to effect a rescue, attendees will witness the "numbers", the reaction and the "unwarranted" need for wet decon. The class will conclude with making the site, the car and the chemical "safe" for disposal. This session will be held off site.