Application of a mobile laboratory for real time response to incidents

With an increase in requirements for rapid identification of chemical and biological agents in cases of CBRNE incidents the Australian Federal Police have utilised the concept of a mobile laboratory (Mobilab). The vehicle was manufactured by ENG (Concord, CA, USA) and equipped with an Agilent GC-MS/DFPD for identification of chemical warfare agents. A class 2 biohazard cabinet (Germfree) and glove box (Plas-Labs) are utilised for sample preparation for suspected biological agents. Presumptive identification of biological agents is performed using portable rapid analysis systems and microscopic techniques. The concept of operation and deployment options are described and discussed.