UK tests response to malicious use of hazardous substances

Taking place between 4-7 November, up to 600 members of the Emergency Services, the Armed Forces and partner agencies simulated a multi-agency response to a CBRNE incident in Papworth, Cambridgeshire. Participants responded to a complex simulated CBRNE incident which involved material release and a number of improvised explosive devices to test joint working, emergency response and specialist response teams.

The exercise was highly successful, demonstrating excellent response capabilities from all agencies involved, and delivering on the Government’s plan to improve resilience through the UK Resilience Action Plan.

The use of CBRNE materials in an attack remains significantly less likely than a conventional attack. However, its malicious release remains a major threat to national security according to the National Risk Register. Such incidents could include the terrorist use of a chemical or biological weapon, an improvised explosive device, a hazardous materials release or a large-scale poisoning.

Joint training

Security Minister Dan Jarvis said: “Joint training is vital to ensure that our policing partners, members of the Armed Forces and emergency responders can work seamlessly together to protect the British public from a range of threats, including chemical, biological and radiological incidents. Their ongoing training and preparation ensures that, when an incident happens, the UK can respond rapidly, effectively and with confidence.”

Counter Terrorism Policing and the Ministry of Defence run a yearly CBRNE exercise to test this co-ordination in practice. The exercise brings together Render Safe, which refers to the specialist capability to neutralise and make safe CBRNE devices, alongside the Emergency Services and other multi-agency partners to strengthen readiness and interoperability.

Alistair Carns, Minister for the Armed Forces, stated: “Our outstanding British Armed Forces bring deep expertise, demonstrating their critical role in defending the homeland. Exercises like this one show how the military is integral to keeping Britain safe and secure at home.”

Effective multi-agency co-operation is fundamental, underpinned by the Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Principles, to ensure a rapid, co-ordinated and proportionate response across Government, the Emergency Services, military responders and partner agencies.

The UK has a robust approach to preparing for such attacks including equipping and training first responders, investing in capabilities to analyse and attribute the use of CBRNE materials and in engaging with wider partners to enhance understanding of the risks involved. A range of specialist teams and capabilities stand ready to respond, focused on saving lives, managing hazards, supporting investigations and driving recovery.

Strength of partnerships

Jon Savell, Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Specialist Operations, commented: “Our ability to respond to complex threats depends on the strength of our partnerships. The close working relationship between Counter Terrorism Policing, local policing and our partner agencies is not just about systems and procedures. It’s also about trust, communication and a shared purpose.”

Savell added: “Exercises like this one ensure we continue to build collaboration such that we can then respond swiftly and effectively when it matters most to keep the public safe.”

Routine (but critical) exercises like this one ensure the UK’s emergency response remains tested, co-ordinated and ready to be deployed, duly building the resilience and preparedness needed to keep members of the public safe.