Contingency planning for and response to emergencies and accidents involving toxic chemicals

Abstract The World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe has designated the prevention of human health and environmental consequences of chemical accidents, as a major activity since 1980. The Istituto Superiore di Sanita in Rome is acting as lead institution within the framework of the WHO International Programme on Chemical Safety, with respect to emergency and accident response. Guidelines for contingency planning for, and response to, emergencies and accidents involving potentially toxic chemicals were produced in 1981. They contain models for setting up alert and response systems, including definition of responsibilities at various levels, communication channels and access to information, equipment and manpower. Ongoing activity concerns the preparation of guidelines for rehabilitation of people and areas affected by chemical accidents. The guidelines deal with technical aspects of rehabilitation following chemical accidents, including water resources, soil, facilities and buildings, as well as with management plans, including the health system.