Hazardous Materials Hotline©
August 28, 2026
Federal News
Several agencies have released information of interest. The NTSB has created an interactive board displaying locations and links to NTSB maritime accident investigations, the CDC has released information on hazards associated with the post-wildfire environment, NIOSH has released a LODD report from the August 2026 silo explosion in Maine, and the Chemical Safety Board has released an update on the investigation from the Nippon Dynawave Packaging incident in May and a video on the 2021 fatal liquid nitrogen release in Gainesville GA.
Discussion: The information released can be used to inform training, planning, risk management, and hazard identification and may be of interest to responders, emergency managers, and team leaders.
Chemical, Nuclear, and Biological Threats
Multiple papers and reports of interested related to chemical and biological threats have been released. This includes an article on AI, bioweapons, and synthetic pathogens, the future of the biological and toxic weapons convention, the state of nuclear weapons security, ensuring security related to biosecurity, the risk of mirror life, and the impact of AI on violent extremism.
Discussion: There is overlap between hazardous materials, terrorism, and criminal activity. Hazardous materials incident response may evolve into terrorism or criminal incidents and responders should be vigilant and prepared for these types of incidents
US Hazmat/CBRNE Intelligence Report
Another source of information is the US Hazmat/CBRNE Intelligence Report. The report provides quick access to intelligence to inform decision making, planning, and response.
Discussion: Situational awareness extends beyond the local environment, with emerging trends and issues impacting communities. Responders and emergency services personnel should seek information to support planning and preparedness activities.
Research and Data
FRSI has posted new information on EV battery fires and response considerations and the IAFF has unveiled a new drone program to assist communities with implementing drone programs to support data gathering for emergency incidents.
Discussion: The data-information-intelligence cycle is critical to long- and short-term decision-making. Whether for emergency incident operational support or emergency planning, data gathering, assessment, and application are critical to supporting decision-making and emergency planning.
Health Effects of 9/11
The CDC has posted an on-line exhibit of the health effects of 9/11. The exhibit demonstrates the impact of 9/11 health effects, the impact of toxins on health, the WTC health program and treatment of related health conditions, and research on 9/11 health impacts.
Discussion: The events of September 11, 2001 continue to reverberate through the nation, with responders and others suffering long-term health effects from the events of that day.
Chemical of the Week and IAB Podcast
The InterAgency Board continues to host the chemical of the week and bi-monthly podcasts, along with the Hazardous Materials Hot Line archive. They make for great training and situational awareness.
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About the Author:
Dave Donohue is a hazardous materials course developer, educator, and trainer with experience at the local, regional and national level. He is also a Master Exercise Practitioner, firefighter, and emergency manager.
