This course is designed to prepare responders, planners and allied professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to analyze hazardous materials/weapons of mass destruction (WMD) incidents using the risk-based response (RBR) process that utilizes facts, science and circumstances. Primarily focused on the product involved, this analysis will also incorporate information concerning the container, environment and cause. This course supports response personnel and allied professionals seeking specialized training in advanced chemical risk assessment and analysis. The student will be able to effectively communicate the hazards and associated harm identified in a timely and concise manner to make recommendations concerning control zones, personal protective equipment (PPE) and decontamination methods to develop a safer RBR.
Through an interactive, student-centered approach, students will conduct a product hazard analysis and create communication strategies by:
- Conducting an initial product hazard analysis for multiple products using limited information.
- Using the periodic table to identify the general hazards associated with a material for developing an initial product hazard analysis.
- Conducting briefings based on their hazard analysis for hazardous materials/WMD incidents.
- Analyzing the characteristics of molecular size, polarity and shape and how these affect the physical and chemical properties of a material.
- Conducting a product hazard analysis to support an RBR process in a hazard situation.
Pre-course materials and course syllabus
| Welcome Letter, BYOD Instructions, Pre-course Assignment: | https://apps.usfa.fema.gov/ax/pcm/pcm_r0233.pdf PDF 186KB |
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| Course Syllabus: | https://apps.usfa.fema.gov/ax/syll/syllabus_r0233.pdf PDF 170KB |
Emergency response personnel who have responsibility for analysis, management and/or tactical response to hazardous materials incidents.
Fire prevention inspectors, hazardous materials inspectors, regulators and planners where knowledge of the chemical behavior of hazardous materials is essential.
Incident Command System (ICS)-100-level and ICS-200-level training. Preferred courses are Q0462 and Q0463, available through NFA Online. Chief’s signature attests that the applicant has completed this required training.
Upcoming offerings
| Dates | Availability | Location | Contact(s) | CCP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| August 12 - 23, 2024 | Wait List Opportunity Apply | Emmitsburg, Maryland | ||
| October 28, 2024 - November 8, 2024 | Application period closed | Emmitsburg, Maryland | ||
| December 9 - 20, 2024 | Application period closed | Emmitsburg, Maryland | ||
| February 17 - 28, 2025 | Apply between 9/15/2024 - 10/15/2024 | Emmitsburg, Maryland | ||
| March 17 - 28, 2025 | Apply between 9/15/2024 - 10/15/2024 | Emmitsburg, Maryland | ||
| July 7 - 18, 2025 | Apply between 3/15/2025 - 4/15/2025 | Emmitsburg, Maryland |