July 2010 Emergency Response Chemical Laboratory Conference Highlights

The Association of Public Health Laboratories and CDC hosted a vital training conference focused on chemical emergency response and laboratory procedures in Salt Lake City, Utah. A key highlight was the EPA’s specialized training session on Water Laboratory Alliance response procedures, which featured an interactive tabletop exercise simulating a drinking water contamination event. Laboratory professionals participated in hands-on training with chemical testing platforms and technologies used by the CDC’s Laboratory Response Network. The four-day gathering brought together experts from across the chemical emergency response community to strengthen our collective ability to respond to chemical threats and contamination events. Through collaborative sessions and practical exercises, participants enhanced their skills in emergency response protocols and expanded their knowledge of chemical analysis techniques essential for public health protection.