On Wednesday March 16, 2022, the Chester County Hazardous Materials Team visited Thorndale for an overview on what this specialized team has to offer and how Thorndale can assist them on these unique incidents. The 30-member team based in West Chester responds countywide to incidents involving hazardous materials and is also available to assist the neighboring counties included Montgomery County, Delaware County, Bucks County, and Philadelphia.

Deputy Chief Bob Kuklentz of the team reviewed their dispatch procedures, operation guidelines, and overall team makeup in the training room. The class then split into two smaller groups with instruction led by other Hazmat Team members. One group focused on exploring the different equipment carried on the hazmat apparatus and discussing situations it would be beneficial in with the other group reviewing the setup of a decon line.

A decon (decontamination) line is setup for all hazardous materials incidents and is where Hazardous Materials Technicians operating in the effected area get cleaned off prior to removing their protective equipment. This is a very important part of these incidents for the safety of the personnel working in these hazardous areas.

Thank you to the Chester County Hazardous Materials Team members who came out to discuss your operations with us.