Technology Improves Response During Hanford Emergency Exercise

RICHLAND, Wash. – EM Richland Operations Office (RL) contractor Mission Support Alliance (MSA) has tested a new technology during an emergency exercise that would quickly communicate the results of air samples during a potential hazardous material release at the Hanford Site.

The exercise provided survey teams with an opportunity to demonstrate the newly implemented RadResponder Network. The network, built by the National Nuclear Safety Administration, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and Environmental Protection Agency, uses wireless connectivity to share radiological data.

Equipped with handheld tablets loaded with the RadResponder mobile application during the exercise, MSA’s radiological control team accessed the network and promptly recorded and shared radiological data with the Hanford Emergency Operations Center.

“The collaboration and communication demonstrated by participants during the exercise is critical to a well managed, quality emergency management program,” said Corey Low, RL director of security emergency services and information management. “This new technology is a perfect example of the ongoing efforts to improve our emergency management program.”

Pete Lombardozzi, MSA radiological control project manager, looks forward to using the RadResponder.

“It is a state-of-the-art application that we can use to quickly transmit critical data directly to decision-makers and other responders, reducing data errors that can occur when information is relayed by phone,” Lombardozzi said.

The site’s emergency management program includes participants from DOE and contractors, and emergency plans are coordinated with area counties and the states of Oregon and Washington. Several exercises are conducted each year, including a large-scale drill each spring. Those exercises are effective at improving the program and ensuring response personnel are trained to protect Hanford workers, the public, and the environment.