SubscribeGlobal security expert Allen-Vanguard is urging EOD and IEDD teams around the world to review the suitability of their equipment and training for situations involving chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear (CBRN) materials.
The majority of intelligence agencies agree that there is a growing risk of CBRNE – explosive devices incorporating a CBRN element. Allen-Vanguard advises that relevant teams and agencies should take action to ensure they are able to cope with the threat if it arises: a detailed CBRNE strategy is required, with particular emphasis on the mitigation and containment phase.
Allen-Vanguard’s Asia Pacific regional manager, Warwick Penrose, developed and commanded Australia’s first CBRNE Counter Terrorism Disposal Capability when he served with the Royal Australian Army Engineers. He recommends that teams have a good understanding of CBRN agent properties and access to flexible containment options that effectively mitigate the various risks regardless of the physical environment.
“A Universal Containment System (UCS) is the best option for responders dealing with a device potentially involving a CBRN element,” said Warwick. “Allen-Vanguard’s UCS equipment comes in a range of sizes for large and small scale situations.
A tent-like structure is used to surround the device and it is then filled with blast mitigation and decontaminant foam that firstly mitigates the blasts then neutralises all known Chemical and Biological agents. The most important consideration is retaining any CBRN material released – whether by the render safe procedure or by the actual functioning of the device – within the containment area.”