SUJCHBO, Czech Republic

Introduction

The National Institute for Nuclear, Chemical and Biological Protection (SÚJCHBO v.v.i.), is a public research institute established in the Czech Republic by the State Office for Nuclear Safety.

The Institute is involved in development and research related to chemical, biological and radiological materials; and provides technical support to supervisory and inspection activities carried out by the State Office for Nuclear Safety and in verification activities under the Chemical Weapons Convention.

Through a cooperative arrangement with the Institute, Hotzone Solutions delivers World-class testing and evaluation services, together with live agent training with radiation sources and a range of chemical and biological materials.

All courses and test results are provided in English and can be delivered in other languages upon request.

Basic Site Information

Located near Příbram, approximately 60 kilometres from Prague, the SÚJCHBO is primarily involved in applied research and the development of practical tools for radiological protection and for protection against chemical and biological weapons.

As a result of its R&D activities, the SÚJCHBO is also regularly called upon to provide expert assistance related to CBRNE issues, to conduct and certify test results in line with approved ISO 9001 quality procedures and to test and identify unknown agents and packages. The knowledge of the staff and equipment of the facility are also utilised in the Integrated Rescue System of the Czech Republic.

Research experience at the facility is utilised in two ways:

- During the misuse of chemicals, biological agents or toxins;
- Training and education.

Live Agent Training Facilities

The SÚJCHBO has facilities for education and training with ionising radiation, chemical and biological agents and explosives. Field training areas are located within the grounds, making it possible to perform practical exercises in addition to theory sessions.

For a number of years, the Institute has been engaged in training related to protection against CBRN agents, has organised professional seminars and conferences for Czech and foreign participants and the Institute’s staff also participate in external lectures and educational courses of other Czech organisations (eg. Ministry of Interior, Armed Forces of the Czech Republic).

The training areas consist of specially designed and hardened surfaces and laboratories, with independent drainage to control contamination and to protect the environment and work areas.

Building on the history and functions of the facility, Hotzone Solutions instructors are able to offer modern lecture theatres and exercise facilities designed for the safe and effective use of live agents.

Safety in Training

Hotzone Solutions places the highest priority on safety and has an established Safety Management System.

All training is conducted in compliance with the NIOSH guidance on workplace exposure limits (Interim Guidance February 2006 - CDC and US Army Airborne Exposure Limits)- please see the OSHA website. HZS has validated its safety procedures through air-monitoring at TWA levels. Technical reports can be provided upon request.

All training is conducted in accordance with the safety requirements of the SÚJCHBO.

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