Simulation in first-responders training to improve the decision-making process: chemical, biological and radiological weapons in improvised explosive devices at airports

Abstract

The aim of the article is to analyse the role of simulation in training first responders to deal with chemical, biological and, radiological weapons in improvised explosive devices. It was assumed that simulation improves decision-making in life threatening situations, especially those related to the use of hazardous substances and explosive devices together. A case study - a specialised exercise conducted in Poland in 2018 involving empirical research data, constitutes evidence concerning the credibility of the hypothesis. A simulated terrorist attack on an airport, where drones carrying IEDs with CBRN agents were used, was enacted. This simulation was carried out during the 3rd National Polon CBRN Workshop on June 26-27, 2018 in Bydgoszcz. Implications for the future concern present and future technologies and equipment for simulating a potential terrorist attacks using IEDs with CBRN agents at an airport.