Key aspects of a Flemish system to safeguard public health interests in case of chemical release incidents

Preparedness as a key factor for human biomonitoring programs after chemical incidents

BACKGROUND

Human biomonitoring (HBM) has been repeatedly recommended for and applied to post-incident chemical exposure assessment. The applicability of HBM and the validity of its results, however, closely depend on the existence and quality of preparatory measures such as information and instruction materials, sampling procedures, transport and storage facilities, and on the selection of appropriate biomarkers, sampling time, transport and storage conditions.

OBJECTIVE

To establish a standardized HBM program for emergency responders of a large chemical production site, considering the aforementioned aspects.

METHODS

An HBM program based on a comprehensive questionnaire, information and training of emergency responders, and availability of sampling material was established. The quantitative determination of metabolites of hazardous substances was carried out based on quality-controlled analytical methods.

RESULTS

The use of HBM after emergency operations was significantly increased immediately after the implementation of the program. Only in single cases, however, established HBM assessment values were exceeded. After one major incident, an increased exposure to benzene exceeding the internal action value was observed after firefighting and safeguarding.

SIGNIFICANCE

The experience with several minor and one major incident at a chemical production site suggests that the implementation of easily accessible and applicable routines is one paramount prerequisite for the success of HBM programs after chemical incidents.

Lack of Alignment in Emergency Response by Systems and the Public: A Dutch Disaster Health Literacy Case Study

OBJECTIVE

Disaster health literacy is vital for emergency medicine and public health preparedness. Conversely, how health and safety information is communicated has a significant impact on disaster health literacy. A lack of alignment between the disaster response and the public's reaction was apparent during a Dutch chemical incident. This case study aims to provide insights into why that misalignment occurred.

METHODS

The case study used readily available Twitter data. The tweets represented both the public and the authorities. The tweets were coded, thematically categorised, analysed, and synthesised to generate an explanatory framework describing the obstacles experienced during the emergency.

RESULTS

The analysis identified four areas of concern with regards to the lack of alignment between the authorities and the public: the alert of the chemical incident, the inadequate communication, the problematic disaster management, and the insufficient disaster health literacy.

CONCLUSION

The case study showed shortcomings in communication and a lack of alignment in the emergency response of the authorities as well as the public's disaster health literacy. Immediate action points were apparent, and a more profound evaluation is recommended to avoid further escalation of an emergency in the future. Trust needs to be built before the next incident strikes.