Navy conducts CBRN awareness programme and exercise in Trincomalee

Sri Lanka Navy held a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) awareness programme and exercise at the Ashroff Jetty in Trincomalee harbour today (24th March 2023).

CBRN hazards pose a significant threat to public safety and security, and organizations must remain vigilant and ready to respond to any potential incidents. At the directives of Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, the programme was conducted by the CBRN unit of Eastern Naval Command, under the supervision of Commander Eastern Naval Area and Commandant Volunteer Naval Force, Rear Admiral Dammika Kumara. The event included a theoretical session as well as practical demonstrations, which were beneficial to all participants.

The theoretical session covered the fundamentals of CBRN hazards, such as detection, identification, protection measures, and rescue procedures. Meanwhile, the practical demonstrations included simulations of potential emergencies as well as proper handling, evacuation of persons and disposal of hazardous materials.

These events were joined by personnel from Sri Lanka Coast Guard, Disaster Management Centre, Sri Lanka Army, Sri Lanka Police, Sri Lanka Ports Authority, Marine Environment Protection Authority, Ceylon Fishery Harbour Corporation, Prima Ceylon (Pvt) Ltd., Tokyo Cement Company (Lanka) Ltd., Ocean Pick (Pvt) Ltd., Fire Brigade-Trincomalee and Indian Oil Corporation PLC.

The Sri Lanka Navy emphasized the importance of coordination and cooperation among all the participating organizations, in dealing with CBRN threats. Moreover, collaborative training efforts and public-private partnerships are also vital factors when addressing potential hazards.