Chemical Agents of Opportunity for Terrorism: TICs & TIMs

Chemical Agents of Opportunity for Terrorism
Training Support Package
Participant Guide
Slide 15
Chemical Agents of Opportunity for Terrorism:
TICs & TIMs
Scenarios
• Large-scale outdoor release of toxic gas or fumes,
and/or an explosion, from an attack on a mobile or
fixed tank or vessel
• Targeted release of a toxic gas into a confined
space (e.g. a subway, theater, or building) or against
specific individuals or groups
• Acute or delayed poisoning by contamination of
food, water, or a highly trafficked venue
Module One – Toxic Warfare: Looking Beyond Conventional Chemical Weapons
15
There are a number of possible or probable scenarios that involve chemicals of
opportunity. Three such scenarios include: a large-scale outdoor chemical release from
an attack on a mobile or fixed facility, a targeted release of a toxic gas into a small
enclosed area or confined space, and acute or delayed poisoning by contamination of
food, water, or a highly trafficked venue.
In the first scenario, a large scale outdoor release will potential affect the greatest
number of people, depending on the nature of the agent (e.g., volatility, density) and the
prevailing conditions. Even in an area without fixed facilities, vulnerability still exists due
to the transportation of hazardous materials in large quantities (e.g., chlorine tank car, 90
tons).
In the second scenario, release in a closed space allows a smaller dose to be utilized to
generate a similar clinical effect due to the lack of dilution by ambient air or wind.
Recognize that the words ‘confined space’ here is not meant to be synonymous with the
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) definition, in which a confined
space is one with limited egress. We use it to refer to a small space or one contained by
walls and ceiling.
In the third scenario, administration of the agent by contamination of a point source
could still affect a large number of people, particularly if a delayed onset agent is utilized.
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