| A train derailment with fire and a hazardous materials release occurred at 1030 one July morning along the 2900 block of Penn Avenue, or at least it did on paper during a recent Tabletop exercise conducted in the training room at TSFR Station 85 on Monday morning June 24. Tabletop exercises are discussion-based sessions where team members meet in an informal, classroom setting to discuss their roles during an emergency and their responses to a particular emergency situation. A facilitator guides participants through a discussion of one or more scenarios.
The exercise included approximately 25 participants from TSFR, Spring Twp PD, Western Berks FD, Western Berks EMS, Berks DES, West Side Emg Mgt Agency, PennDOT, Pa Emergency Mgt, Norfolk Southern RR and other area agencies. The exercise was facilitated and evaluated by representatives of Pennoni, a nationwide provider of consulting services to government and emergency services.
The drill was sponsored by the Berks Dept of Emergency Services and was intended to review and assess the response to a release of multiple hazardous materials from a train derailment. The objectives included recognition and identification of the materials involved including use of the ASK RAIL system and DOT Guidebook, the development of a strategic plan and associated tactics, logistical requirements and the evolution of interaction between various agencies during the event and subsequent cleanup.
The exercise took approximately two hours and was completed with a critique and wrap up. The results will be documented and used to reinforce strengths and correct weaknesses noted in the exercise play. All participants agreed that the time was well spent. |
