As the potential for terrorist and non-terrorist Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear Explosives (CBRNE) events increase, there is a need to develop evidence-informed, practical tools and guidelines for first responders and for those that provide psychosocial support to them and the affected populations.
Simulation Training & Exercise Collaboratory (SIMTEC) is a multi-year research project that will assist Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) personnel develop a more considered approach of the psychosocial dimensions of CBRNE and other hazardous events.
The use of JIBC’s Hydra and Ex-Pod system will allow researchers to study senior officials during various exercise scenarios. The findings will demonstrate how to best enhance the capacity to respond more effectively to CBRNE and other threats for Canada and the international community.
Primary benefits
Enhance the existing knowledge base regarding how senior decision-makers and Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) personnel incorporate psychosocial considerations into strategic and tactical decisions while responding to CBRNE and other threats.
Develop a web-based Collaboratory for researchers from around the world to access, use and test disaster exercises (including scenarios and injects) and training materials developed through this project.
Assist first responders in incorporating psychosocial considerations into existing decontamination, CBRNE and other Multi-Casualty Incident (MCI) protocols and procedures through the use of training sessions, materials and guidebooks.
Assist family physicians when providing trauma support for patients following CBRNE and other MCIs through the development of guidelines for psychosocial treatment.
Identify practical evidence-informed psychosocial interventions to reduce stress levels and enhance the decision making of senior personnel working in EOCs when responding to CBRNE and other threats.