Govt of India launches training modules on public health management of chemical emergencies
New Delhi: India took a major step toward strengthening its national health security framework with the release of three specialized training modules on Public Health Management of Chemical Emergencies. Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava launched three critical modules on Surveillance, Pre-Hospital Care and Medical Management on Chemical Emergencies. The Health Ministry said that these modules were developed collaboratively by the National Centre for Disease Control, the National Disaster Management Authority of India and the World Health Organisation. These modules aim to equip public health professionals and responders with the necessary knowledge and skills for the timely and effective management of chemical incidents.
Chemical Emergencies a growing threat to New India
Chemical emergencies, whether accidental or deliberate, pose an escalating threat to public health, environmental stability, and economic systems. With rapid industrial growth and increased use of hazardous materials in manufacturing, transportation, and urban infrastructure, the risk of chemical exposure incidents has become a pressing concern. Speaking at the launch, the Secretary emphasized that in a rapidly industrializing economy like India’s, preparedness, prevention, and timely response are critical to mitigating the risks associated with chemical disasters. He underlined that the new modules would serve as a foundational resource for building capacity across all levels of the health and emergency response system.
The newly launched modules form a structured training framework designed to address various stages and stakeholders involved in chemical emergency management:
Module 1: Preparedness, Surveillance, and Response for Public Health Management of Chemical Emergencies
- Focuses on strengthening early warning systems, inter-sectoral coordination, and rapid response frameworks.
- Aims to integrate chemical incident management into the larger national disaster and health emergency response structures.
Module 2: Pre-Hospital Management of Chemical Emergencies
- Designed for first responders, paramedics, and field personnel who play a vital role in minimizing exposure and providing immediate care at the incident site.
- Covers field triage, personal protective equipment (PPE), safe evacuation, and initial decontamination procedures
Module 3: Medical Management of Chemical Emergencies
- Focuses on hospital-based response and clinical management of victims exposed to toxic chemicals.
- Provides protocols for diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care, while emphasizing occupational safety for healthcare workers.
Together, these modules are designed to equip public health professionals, healthcare providers, and policymakers with the practical skills and operational tools required for a rapid, coordinated, and evidence-driven response to chemical emergencies.
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