Officials of public and private institutions yesterday for the first time attended a course on decontamination of hazardous materials to manage potential biological and chemical disasters.
The course was part of the Emirates International Disaster and Trauma Congress.
It targeted the first disaster responders, aiming to train personnel involved in the clean up operations of chemical, biological and radiological materials.
Representatives of the emergency sections of the Police, Civil Defence, municipalities, Army, Navy, oil field companies, medical services, hospitals, healthcare organisations and others attended.
Captain Dr Mohammed Joudah, of the Rescue Section at the Abu Dhabi Police, said: "Their participation is to improve knowledge and competency in decontaminating hazardous materials and preparing them to handle such emergency."
Capt. Joudah said there still are no plans to establish a special decontamination team within the Abu Dhabi Police. But if any step is taken in future, the section will have the skilled staff readily available.
He saidthe course does not imply that biological disasters are likely to happen in the area, but the UAE rescue and emergency personnel are being prepared to face any eventuality and catch up with the preparations of the international rescue teams.
"We have to be prepared to handle any emergency involving chemical or biological risks, resulting either from industrial accidents, wars or others. This does not mean that our area is at risk, but we have to upgrade our competency to intervene in any situation, and to provide help internationally if required."
The training prepared the participants to make proper safety decisions involving rescue of people caught in any radioactive emergency. During the exercises the trainees learnt about radiation and its effects on health, how to monitor it and the process of decontamination.
It covered both the UAE and international laws and regulations for an emergency response plan for staff training and response to hazardous materials. The trainees learned through hands-on procedures and use of personal protective equipment, provided by international experts including medical toxicologists, hazardous material teams, industrial hygiene and safety officers and others.
Gulf News
