Chemical Agents of Opportunity for Terrorism: TICs & TIMs

Chemical Agents of Opportunity for Terrorism
Training Support Package
Participant Guide
Slide 27
Chemical Agents of Opportunity for Terrorism:
TICs & TIMs
AEGL Plumes
Acute Exposure Guideline Levels (AEGL): www.epa.gov/oppt/aegl /
Module One – Toxic Warfare: Looking Beyond Conventional Chemical Weapons
27
One of the criteria used to assist in the determination of the response criteria is the
plume model shown here. This takes into account ambient wind condition from a point
release. EPA has developed a number of Acute Emergency Guideline Levels (AEGL) for
various chemical compounds and duration of exposure. AEGLs serve as a planning tool
for response to chemical releases from chemical facilities. Note that AEGL-3 is more
severe than AEGL-1.
AEGL-1 is the airborne concentration (as parts per million, ppm) of a substance above
which it is predicted that the general population, including susceptible individuals, could
experience notable discomfort, irritation, or certain asymptomatic nonsensory effects.
However, the effects are not disabling and are transient and reversible upon cessation of
exposure.
AEGL-2 is the airborne concentration (ppm) of a substance above which it is predicted
that the general population, including susceptible individuals, could experience
irreversible or other serious, long-lasting adverse health effects or an impaired ability to
escape.
AEGL-3 is the airborne concentration (ppm) of a substance above which it is predicted
that the general population, including susceptible individuals, could experience lifethreatening
health effects or death
December 2008 Version 2.0 Page 32