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State Department Medical Professionals Gain CBRNE/Terrorism Awareness Skills through The GW Office of Homeland Security

On August 19, 2009, six personnel from the US Department of State, Office of Medical Services, convened for a CBRNE/Terrorism Awareness course conducted by the Center for Preparedness and Resilience (CPR) at the George Washington University Office of Homeland Security (GWU OHS). The eight-hour course, which was held at the GW campus in Loudon County, Virginia, prepared the attendees for their impending deployment to such countries as Madagascar, China, Bangladesh, and Russia.

Structured with presentations, discussions, and small group activities, the course addressed the unique challenges faced by medical providers when confronted with a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or explosive (CBRNE) terrorist incident.

One point emphasized by instructor Brandon Graham, Associate Director, CPR was the technique to “recognize, avoid, isolate, and notify,” or RAIN. This strategy, which is a memorable way to break down the approach to a serious problem, can be used in the face of almost all emergencies.

The course—though factually dense—remained engaging due to its interactive, informal nature. “I like to facilitate discussion, not lecture. While we are imparting valuable information on the participants, they too can learn a lot from each other, given their various experiences in the field,” said Graham. After completing the training, the participants received a certification documenting their ability to demonstrate the Awareness level competencies of CBRNE planning and response.

This particular session was only one of many courses conducted by GWU OHS, who provides training whenever needed—regardless of enrollment number. By working with GW academic departments, researchers, professors, and contract subject matter experts, GWU OHS has created a huge range of customized, innovative training programs related to homeland security.

“Preparing first responders and other key personnel on the front lines is vital to prevention, preparation, and reaction to a wide array of threats facing the nation,” said Graham. “Through our training efforts and technical support programs, GWU OHS is contributing to an effort to achieve sustainable levels of preparedness, prevention, response, and recovery.”