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7. Response to chemical and radiological emergencies
The role of the health sector in responding to chemical and radiological emergencies is detailed in this section, which is largely based on the WHO Manual for the Public Health Management of Chemical Incidents, and on chapter 5 (response) in particular.
7.1. Initial actions
The role of the health sector in eliminating the sources of contamination depends on the scenario. If the event occurs in a factory, for instance, controlling the leak is the responsibility of the company and the relevant response agencies (fire department, hazardous materials experts). If there is an external release, however, the health sector is appropriately involved in detecting the incident, identifying the origin and nature of the contamination, and stopping the exposure (for example, by withdrawing products from the market). It should also participate in defining possible courses of action to impede the spread and decontamination, restrict access to relevant areas, protect people, and assess possible short- and long-term health threats.
7.2. Activation of health sector response
a. Warning and alerting medical services: Once a warning is activated, it is essential that the health sector conduct a rapid assessment of potential or actual risks to health and the environment. Health professionals should assess the state of victims, and alert the care network as necessary.
7.3. Investigating during the event
The primary objective of investigating health or environmental effects during an incident is to be able to provide quick advice, basically for the purpose of protection and treatment. A secondary objective is to organize epidemiological research that will contribute to the public health database and add to existing toxicological information.