Acts of terrorism and other incidents can release dangerous chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) materials. CSS researches and documents information on the best practices and most effective technologies for CBRN response. 

About this Program

Our emergency response specialists prepare the technical guides, reports, databases, and other resources that guide responses to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear incidents.  Our work provides national and local first responders with the tools they need to protect human health and the environment.

Working closely with EPA’s CMAD since 2007, CSS staff presents state-of-the science information in easy-to-use documents designed for federal, state, and local emergency responders and decisionmakers. We also help plan for and perform field demonstrations and exercises. This field work tests, refines, and documents the effectiveness of proposed approaches and decontamination technologies following the release of CBRN materials.

By the numbers:

100Tasks or Technical Directives performed for CMAD since 2007

40+CBRN tactical, field, and quick response guides produced for first responders

16Field demonstrations and exercises supported

Additional Projects

Response at Contaminated Sites and Natural Disasters Nationwide

On-Site Support for EPA’s Office of Land and Emergency Management (OLEM) – CSS provides expert technical guidance and field support at hazardous and contaminated sites, including sites under the Superfund program.

Quick Response Guides for Emergency Response

CSS prepares tactical, field, and quick response guides used by EPA OSCs and other first responders to address a wide range of contaminants.

Training for First Responders and Field Staff

CSS technical experts prepare and deliver essential training and information addressing worker safety and environmental hazards.

IT Services

Our IT solutions meet clients’ evolving needs.

Environmental Resource Assessment & Management

We apply science to address challenges affecting the nation’s natural resources.

Human Health Risk Assessment

We help advance the understanding of chemical effects on people and the environment.

Satellite Data Applications

Helping create a more environmentally sustainable, weather-ready, and secure nation through application of earth observation data  

Emergency Preparedness & Response

We help our clients prepare for and protect the health and environment of communities after disasters and hazmat releases.

Safety, Health, & Environmental

We provide our clients with tools to protect their workforce, the public, and the environment.

Space Science Application Support & Operations

We deliver scientific support to advance our clients’ research goals.

Get in touch

Contact us to learn more about our projects, capabilities, solutions, and service offerings.