Hazardous Materials Hotline©
October 28, 2025
AI Creates New Virus
Scientists in California are reporting that they have used artificial intelligence (AI) to design and create a self-replicating bacteriophage.
Discussion: As with all technology, AI is like a double-edged sword. The ability to create bacteriophages holds promise in the fight against resistant pathogens, but also opens up possibilities for nefarious use. Responders and planners should maintain awareness of emerging technologies and their impacts.
New Reference on Hydrogen Sulfide
The United Kingdom’s Health Security Agency has published response guidance to assist responders before and during response to emergencies involving Hydrogen Sulfide. The guidance provides general information, toxicological data, and incident management guidance.
Discussion: Many countries, including those of the European Union, United Kingdom and the Commonwealth continue to provide timely and accurate information and guidance which can assist emergency personnel in reducing risk to themselves and their communities.
New Chlorine A and B Kit Videos Posted
The Chlorine Institute has posted new videos showing how to use Emergency Kit A, for 100 and 150 lb. cylinders, and Emergency Kit B, for 1 ton containers.
Discussion: Most responders will rarely see leaking chlorine containers, however, when they do fail, there is the potential for injury and death, making these incidents low frequency/high impact incidents which require training to remain proficient and effective.
PPE Decontamination Following Rescue
New research has been published regarding the practical considerations of decontaminating personal protective equipment (PPE) following rescue operations.
Discussion: The research reinforced the need for decontamination as a means of controlling chemical exposure and recognized that it may not be carried out consistently. The research also proposed new methods and techniques to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of decontamination.
NIOSH IDLH Values Updates
The National Institutes of Occupational Safety and Health has released IDLH Values Profiles on Hydrogen Iodide, Hydrogen Chloride, and Hydrogen Bromide.
Discussion: The NIOSH Table of IDLH Values provides IDLH and chemical hazard profiles for over 400 chemicals, with the list continuing to be reviewed and updated in an effort to maintain current.
Lessons from the Salisbury Novichok Poisonings
A lessons learned document reviewing the Salisbury Novichok Poisonings has been released. The report provides general information of the incident, patient presentations, and response to the incident.
Discussion: This review of a unique incident provides insight into what may become a more common occurrence as both state and non-state actors seek opportunities to acquire and deploy chemical weapons.
Chemical of the Week
The latest chemical of the week worksheets, Hexane and Methyl Parathion have been posted. They provide weekly chemical research training, reflecting incident research during initial response to hazardous materials incidents.
Want to be alerted when a new Hazardous Material Hotline is published? Click the button to sign up for our notifications.
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.
