Smiths Detection hazmat expert Dr. Chris Weber has been selected to give two presentations at the industry’s flagship event, the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ Hazardous Materials Response Teams Conference 2015. Dr. Weber’s proposals were acceptedout of more than 150 entries submitted to the event, which will be held May 28-31 in Baltimore, MD.
Dr. Weber will partner with renowned Battalion Chief (Ret.) Richard Dufek of the Carmel (IN) Fire Department to first present “Tactical Chemistry for Emergency Responders”. Described as “not your average chemistry class,” the duo will show how chemistry fundamentally impacts product behavior, and the detection and identification of unknown materials. They will also explore best practices and mitigation tools and techniques in hazardous materials response. The chemistry of hazardous materials will come alive through scenario-based demonstrations and chemical identification exercises using basic and advanced detection and identification equipment.
Dr. Weber will also present a session named “Illicit Labs – What Could They Be Making?” The presentation will cover the handling, inner workings and functions of dangerous and complex illicit drug, explosive, and chemical warfare agent laboratories as well as tactical differences between them. Tools and methods used to distinguish between different types of labs – such as drug, explosive, and chemical agent – will be highlighted. Detection and identification equipment – much of which is designed and manufactured by Smiths Detection – plays a crucial role in illicit lab identification. Dr. Weber will present with John Meyers, a trainer with JAM Training and a retired DEA chemist.
Terry Gibson, President of Smiths Detection Inc., said, “Sharing our expertise with and learning from the emergency response community demonstrates Smiths Detection’s continued commitment to providing first responders with the tools and training needed to help them remain safe while protecting and serving their communities.”
