Emergency preparedness is a significant part of the WIPP Transportation Safety Program. While the shipments are conducted in such a way as to prevent accidents from occurring, if one does take place, the state and local jurisdictions are prepared to respond quickly, safely and effectively.
- Emergency Response Plans and Procedures. A well-organized and coordinated effort is necessary for a swift and effective response to an accident. Emergency responders along the route have plans and procedures in place to deal with transportation incidents involving the WIPP shipments. The State of Colorado has prepared several guidance documents that specify notification and response procedures for use in the event of a WIPP accident.
- Training. The Department of Energy and Colorado WIPP Program have developed training programs to meet the diverse needs of emergency response personnel; prehospital and hospital personnel; public health and environmental health officials; public works; dispatchers; medical examiners, coroners, and crime scene investigators.
- Exercises. Exercise programs are an integral part of a training program. The Department of Energy supports two full-scale exercise activities a year, called WIPPTREX, in the western states. The exercises are done by the western states on a rotating basis. Shown below is a photograph from the Tyler, Texas WIPPTREX.
- Emergency Response Equipment. Radiation detection equipment has been provided to emergency responders and hospitals along Interstate 25, the WIPP transportation corridor through Colorado. Responders have been trained to properly use this equipment in the event of any radiological incident.
- Security in advance of and during transportation is best approached from a preventative standpoint. Emergency response personnel at all levels of government maintain a strong relationship with the Colorado Information Analysis Center (CIAC). The CIAC ensures a coordinated information exchange to prevent, protect and respond to crimes and potential or actual acts of terrorism.
