Chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive events
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About emergency events
Chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive (CBRNE) events refer to the uncontrolled release of chemicals, biological agents or radioactive contamination into the environment or explosions that cause widespread damage. CBRNE events can be caused by accidents or by terrorist acts.
In Canada, the Minister of Public Safety Canada is responsible for responding to acts of terrorism.
In the event of an emergency that poses a risk to public health, Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada play key roles in protecting the health and safety of Canadians.
Learn more:
- Border and travel health
- Pathogen safety data sheets
- National Microbiology Laboratory
- Public Safety Canada: Get prepared
- Centre for Emergency Preparedness and Response
- Pandemic preparedness and response: Public Health Agency of Canada
Health Canada's role
In a radiological or nuclear emergency, Health Canada coordinates the federal government response under the Federal Nuclear Emergency Plan.
In a chemical emergency, the Department takes action through the Chemical Emergency Response Unit by preparing and coordinating the response activities of the Safe Environments Programme, the Department's scientific lead for chemical emergencies.
Health Canada outlines :
- how radiation is measured
- what the health effects of radiation exposure can be
- how radiation is monitored
- how you can protect yourself from being exposed to radiation
Learn more:
- Radiation and your health
- Safe Environments Directorate
- Environmental and workplace health
- Federal Nuclear Emergency Plan Part 1: Master Plan
- Nuclear Emergency Preparedness and Response Division
- How Canada prepares for radiological and nuclear emergencies
- Canadian Guide on Medical Management of Radiation Emergencies
- Guidance on planning for recovery following a nuclear or radiological emergency
- Generic criteria and operational intervention levels for nuclear emergency planning and response