HazMat and emergency response training for workers near DOE nuclear facilities
Official title: IAFF HazMat Training at DOE Nuclear Sites
Funded at International Association Fire Fighters · NIH-11401387 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A big training program helps firefighters and other responders near DOE facilities stay safe by teaching them hazmat, confined-space, and renewable-energy emergency response skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | International Association Fire Fighters NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | September 16, 1992 |
| Project end | July 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,056,674 |
| NIH project number | 5UH4ES009759-35 |
| Project ID | NIH-11401387 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Not applicable in the clinical sense; this is a workforce training grant for emergency responders and associated personnel.
✕Less likely to help
No direct patient treatment is involved; the program targets workers and responders.
What this research studies
This grant supports the IAFF’s ongoing program to train workers, including firefighters and emergency responders, who operate within 150 miles of DOE weapons sites. The curriculum includes HazMat Technician, Confined Space Rescue, HazMat Operations, and a new Responding to Renewable Energy Emergencies course being developed with DOE. The training is delivered through cooperative agreements and is designed to improve safety, prevent harm, and enhance readiness for complex chemical and energy-related emergencies. The program uses established materials, surveys feedback, and third-party reviews to ensure high quality and impact. Participation is aimed at workers, public safety personnel, facility managers, and local partners who respond to chemical releases or other emergencies.”,
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Improved safety, faster and safer emergency response, and reduced health risks for workers near hazardous DOE sites.
How similar studies have gone: There is a proven track record of successful implementation, positive feedback, and third-party reviews for IAFF emergency training programs.
Where this research is happening
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International Association Fire Fighters
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Joshua — International Association Fire Fighters
- Study coordinator: Smith, Joshua
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Hazardous Disaster Preparedness Training for Firefighters and Emergency Responders
A training program helps firefighters and emergency workers stay safe and protect communities during hazardous material and disaster events.
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Hazardous Materials First Responder Training for Firefighters
A program to train firefighters and related responders in hazardous materials safety and emergency response to protect health and safety.
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Hazardous Materials Rescue Training for Firefighters and First Responders
A large training program helps firefighters and other first responders learn and practice safe ways to handle hazardous materials and disasters.
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Training program for fire fighters' safety and health
This study is all about making sure firefighters stay safe and healthy on the job by giving them special training that helps them handle the unique dangers they face, especially during emergencies with hazardous materials.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.