Responding to detection of aerosolized Bacillus anthracis by autonomous detection systems in the workplace

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Federal Government Agency     发表于2004年

Response and Consequence Management Planning Every employer who deploys an autonomous detection system (ADS) should develop detailed plans for responding to a positive signal (see Box 1 in the original guideline document). Responding to ADS detection of Bacillus anthracis involves coordinating responses with community partners and should include drills and exercises with these partners. Response planning should involve the following entities: · Local and state health departments. Because health departments will provide guidance on prophylaxis, laboratory confirmation, and long-term follow-up for employees potentially exposed, they should be made aware of the presence of an ADS and should devise response plans in case of an alert. · Local first responders. Because local first-response organizations (e.g., police, fire, hazardous materials, and emergency medical services [EMS]) are expected to respond to a suspected terrorist attack, facilities implementing ADSs should involve local first responders in response planning. Employers should also consider contacting the regional office of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, who will likely be involved in facility decontamination when necessary. · Local medical facilities. Employees potentially exposed to B. anthracis spores might seek medical evaluation and treatment at local medical facilities even if they already have undergone decontamination, if appropriate, or have been started on postexposure prophylaxis (PEP). In addition, any potentially exposed employees who believe they are experiencing symptoms related to the exposure or PEP should seek medical evaluation. Therefore, involving one or more local medical facilities in response planning is prudent. Relying on the local health department to provide guidance for these arrangements is also appropriate. · Law enforcement officials. Terrorism is a federal offense and a worksite with a positive ADS signal is a potential crime scene. Therefore, any employer using an ADS device should inform the regional office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and state and local law enforcement officials about its installation and include them in response planning. Agreeing in advance with FBI and other law enforcement agencies which will be the lead agency during the initial response is essential. Clear command and control procedures are critical when responding to a potential terrorist event. · Local media representatives. Communicating quickly and effectively with the public is essential. Therefore, employers should consider involving local media representatives as soon as an ADS is installed. Response plans should include a media-planning component, including pre-event development of messages, information packages, and designated spokespersons. Facility managers might prepare a tour and briefing for local media representatives so they understand what an ADS is, what the probable responses will be when a detection occurs, and whom to contact for information. This will increase the likelihood that media will contribute positively to the public health response in the event of a positive ADS signal....查看全文