Hazardous Materials Hotline©
July 10, 2026
AI and Bioweapons
Several recent articles regarding the use of artificial intelligence and bioweapons programs may be of interest. Fortune is reporting that IT companies are coming together to warn of the risks associated with AI and bioweapons programs. At the same time, the Atlantic Council hosted a meeting to discuss the future of AI to build, detect, and counter bioweapons. This follows its 2021 Apollo Program report on biodefense.
Discussion: Bioweapons programs have moved forward since the days of Unit 731, with the cost and technology involved moving well within reach of non-state actors. Hazardous materials teams may again find themselves on the front line of biological emergency response and responders and planners should keep abreast of threats and technologies that impact this sphere of operations.
Policy and Politics
Changes in the awarding of federal disaster recovery funds (Stafford Act) has come under scrutiny with claims of politics playing a greater role in decision making. This has been coupled with requirements for use of UASI funds to support specific policies that have been traditionally outside of the scope of the grant program.
Discussion: Traditionally, emergency services has tried to remain apolitical and, to the greatest extent possible, remain separate from the political process. However, it is imperative that emergency planners and managers remain aware of shifting political winds, engage elected officials, and serve as honest brokers in order to ensure adequate resources to meet their mission requirements.
Turnout Gear Survey
Only 53 years after being recognized as having a role in the nation’s fire service, turnout gear manufacturers are seeking input on how to improve turnout gear for female responders.
Discussion: Studies have indicated that females and males are physically different and that traditional turnout gear does not fit the same across the sexes. This impacts movement and the ability of turnout gear to provide protection. Female responders are encouraged to complete the survey and to take part in efforts to improve turnout gear performance.
Articles of Interest
Several recent articles may be of interest to emergency responders, planners, managers, and team leaders. A recent article by MSN reiterates the rising threat of chemical facility incidents across the nation, IISS is reporting on the threat of hybrid threats and nuclear risks, new information on the activities of Unit 516 during WWII has been released, and an article on the prevalence and threat of undeclared hazardous materials in transport has been published.
Discussion: Emergency services personnel should remain current with regards to information that may impact their work environment, shape the threats that they face, and alter the response risk profile.
Chemical of the Week and IAB Podcast
The InterAgency Board continues to host the chemical of the week (ethylene dibromide and aluminum phosphide) and bi-monthly podcasts, (electric vehicles and energy storage systems) 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.
