Recorded presentation

Henry Falk, MD, MPH, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, 1600 Clifton Rd, NE, Mail Stop E 28, Atlanta, GA 30333, 404-639-0700, hxf1@cdc.gov

The Bhopal catastrophe highlighted the many deficiencies that both led to the release and that magnified the health impact on the surrounding community. This disaster triggered many efforts worldwide to prevent industrial accidents, track chemical releases and increase preparedness and response capabilities In recent years, these efforts have been further elevated by concerns about similar releases resulting from terrorist activities and the gaps in our chemical security infrastructure that they have revealed. In the US, multiple sources can be utilized to identify potential sites and vulnerable facilities. GIS systems can incorporate this information and display the multiple risks to communities. In response to the Bhopal episode, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), maintains a surveillance system in 15 states to track acute chemical releases that result in mortality, morbidity, or evacuations of nearby communities. A more comprehensive system, covering a broader geographic area and tracking all significant accidents, releases and explosions at chemical facilities would be desirable. Greater efforts are needed to fully train and prepare State and local health departments to prevent and respond to industrial and chemical accidents.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the public health role in preventing and responding to major chemical accidents. 2. How can public health departments track risks and vulnerable sites?
• How do we better prepare the public health community to respond to major chemical release?

Keywords: Health, Safety

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Recorded presentation