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Counterterrorism planning using the Hazardous Substances Events Surveillance system
Deana M Manassaram1, Maureen F Orr, Wendy E Kaye
1Division of Health Studies/Epidemiology and Surveillance Branch, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, Georgia 30333, USA. dmanassaram@cdc.gov
Summary
The Hazardous Substances Emergency Events Surveillance (HSEES) system aids in identifying dangerous substances and assessing emergency preparedness. This public health tool helps detect unusual hazardous substance events for improved safety.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
Background:
- The Hazardous Substances Emergency Events Surveillance (HSEES) system was established in 1990.
- It is managed by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR).
- HSEES is a critical public health surveillance system within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the utility of HSEES data for hazard vulnerability assessments.
- To demonstrate how HSEES supports local emergency planning committees.
- To underscore HSEES's role in early detection of hazardous substance incidents.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing historical HSEES data to establish baseline patterns of hazardous substance releases.
- Analyzing surveillance data for identifying trends and unusual occurrences.
- Leveraging the active surveillance capabilities of the HSEES system.
Main Results:
- HSEES data enables the identification of substances causing severe injuries.
- The system facilitates improvements in monitoring and access control for hazardous sites.
- Baseline data aids in evaluating the preparedness of emergency response agencies.
Conclusions:
- The HSEES system is a valuable tool for understanding hazardous substance emergencies.
- It empowers local committees to enhance safety measures and response readiness.
- Active surveillance through HSEES is crucial for the early detection of public health threats.