A coordinated, well-executed response to a chemical release, including a suspected chemical attack, can greatly limit the spread of the chemical substance and the resulting casualties. Chemical recognition systems, therefore, should be developed to provide adequate coverage and shorten response time. Such systems should also be integrated into a holistic chemical recognition and response Concept of Operations to ensure their signals initiate an appropriate response. The response itself will be led by appropriate knowledgeable entities, often starting with local HazMat teams, and will involve additional agencies, such as the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB), as needed. For more information about federal roles of the USCG’s National Response Center, EPA, and others in chemical incident response, see the Federal Preparedness, Response, and Recovery section of this document.
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