MDE has been working closely with local officials, allied State agencies and federal agencies to ensure coordinated response to possible terrorist incidents. Some of these activities include:
- Development of sampling protocols and laboratory delivery protocols with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) Laboratories Administration.
- Planning for coordinated use of DHMH laboratory facilities for analysis of suspected bioterrorism agents.
- Development of response guidelines for police, fire and other local officials in cooperation with the Maryland Emergency Management Agency, Maryland State Police, State Fire Marshal, DHMH and local officials.
- Updated departmental emergency contact rosters and emergency procedures to provide rapid access to key personnel.
- Compiled key local and allied agency contact information into a single emergency contact reference guide.
- MDE's Hazardous Materials Transportation (HMT) section is providing increased inspections in support of the Maryland State Police and other law enforcement agencies. HMT regularly disseminates information provided by the USDOT regarding possible threat and "watch list" individuals.
- Maintaining extremely close coordination with FBI, U.S. Coast Guard and Environmental Protection Agency officials.
- Coordinated with Baltimore City, the Mayor's office, and other city agencies on issues of chemical facility security. Coordinated a meeting between City, State and chemical industry officials for October 1 to discuss the extent of the problem and possible solutions.
- MDE will be working with the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission, Baltimore City and other major water supply facilities to develop public service announcements to inform the public about the steps that are being taken to protect their water supply.
- MDE is working with Defense Department officials at Aberdeen Proving Ground and Fort Detrick to secure additional awareness training for field inspectors who regulate and respond to these facilities.
