WMD Radiological/Nuclear Awareness (AWR-140)

This course is a weapons of mass destruction (WMD) radiological/nuclear overview designed for first responders and other personnel who are likely to be the first to arrive on the scene of a radiological/nuclear incident. It focuses on the basics of radiation, possible health effects, hazard identification, and proper notification procedures. The course consists of classroom instruction.

Course Length: 8 hours

Prerequisite: None

Target Audience/Discipline:
Law Enforcement, Emergency Medical Services, Emergency Management Agency, Fire Service, Hazardous Material (HazMat), Public Works, Governmental Administrative, Public Safety Communications, Health Care, Public Health

Course Objectives:

• To describe the radiological/nuclear threat of terrorism and its potential effects on the community
• To describe the basic properties of radiation and its effects on responders in a radiological environment
• To explain the health effects on the responders and victims in a radiological/nuclear incident and the basic principles of emergency medical treatment
• To apply time, distance, and shielding concepts to reduce exposure while operating in a radiation environment
• To operate a variety of radiological instruments to determine the presence and quantity of radiation
• To use survey techniques to determine the radiological hazards and to make tactical decisions
• To describe the design and construction features of containers used for radiological/nuclear material
• To describe the issues and considerations associated with managing large-scale radiological/nuclear incidents
• To determine tactical considerations in responding to radiation incidents based upon information from the previous modules

Certificate:
U.S. Department of Energy, National Center for Exercise Excellence, Nevada Test Site certificate (CEUs awarded by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas [UNLV])

Please note: Applications for courses will be accepted up to 1 day prior to the course date.
However, the cutoff date for lodging is 7 days prior to class.

If you want to learn more about the Training Program or are interested in attending a specific course, please contact the IEMA Regional Coordinator serving your county. Registration must be made in advance to attend any course. An application can be obtained from the IEMA Regional Coordinator or by downloading in pdf format.