Acts of terrorism and other incidents can release dangerous chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) materials. CSS researches and documents information on the best practices and most effective technologies for CBRN response. 

About this Program

Our emergency response specialists prepare the technical guides, reports, databases, and other resources that guide responses to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear incidents.  Our work provides national and local first responders with the tools they need to protect human health and the environment.

Working closely with EPA’s CMAD since 2007, CSS staff presents state-of-the science information in easy-to-use documents designed for federal, state, and local emergency responders and decisionmakers. We also help plan for and perform field demonstrations and exercises. This field work tests, refines, and documents the effectiveness of proposed approaches and decontamination technologies following the release of CBRN materials.

By the numbers:

100Tasks or Technical Directives performed for CMAD since 2007

40+CBRN tactical, field, and quick response guides produced for first responders

16Field demonstrations and exercises supported

Additional Projects

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs)

We provide site-specific in situ monitoring coupled with predictive modeling, to provide an early warning system to advise health officials and resource managers on how to best focus their efforts to protect health and environment.

Biogeographic Assessment of the Main Hawaiian Islands (MHI)

CSS compiled and visualized data showing the distribution of habitats and marine organisms, to establish a baseline for assessing and monitoring potential environmental impacts from renewable energy projects.

Supporting EPA’s Emergency Response Efforts following Hurricane Harvey

CSS staff served as lead technical advisors on a multi-agency environmental response team after Hurricane Harvey. 

Environmental Resource Assessment & Management

We apply science to address challenges affecting the nation’s natural resources.

Satellite Data Applications

Helping create a more environmentally sustainable, weather-ready, and secure nation through application of earth observation data  

Human Health Risk Assessment

We help advance the understanding of chemical effects on people and the environment.

IT Services

Our IT solutions meet clients’ evolving needs.

Space Science Application Support & Operations

We deliver scientific support to advance our clients’ research goals.

Safety, Health, & Environmental

We provide our clients with tools to protect their workforce, the public, and the environment.

Facilities Operations & Maintenance

We understand your facility support needs and deliver customized solutions.

Get in touch

Contact us to learn more about our projects, capabilities, solutions, and service offerings.