CBRNE

“Emergency response teams across the Nation require reliable and interoperable chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosives (CBRNE) equipment that can be used with confidence for the protection of life, health, property, and commerce…” A National Strategy for CBRNE Standards, May 2011, National Science and Technology Council Committee on Homeland and National Security.

The use of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive (CBRNE) devices by terrorists still pose a serious threat to the United States.   CBRNE events have the potential to cause massive damage, panic and long term economic impact.  Emergency responders face major challenges to their training, equipment, and operating procedures in responding to CBRNE events.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Law Enforcement Standards Office (OLES) is working with the Department of Homeland Security to develop test methods, performance standards, guidance and conformity assessment programs to aid the Responder community to detect, mitigate and respond to CBRNE events.

Specific Projects

Development of NIST Standard Reference Materials for Trace Explosives Detection

Expansion of the NIST Law Enforcement Test Bed for Trace Contraband Detection