--- title: "Subscribers" description: "CBRNe World provides those tasked with defending against CBRN and IED threats with the essential practical, scientific and political information. Access the current and previous issues of the magazine by registering as a member." url: "https://cbrneworld.com/news/subscribers?start=650" date: "2026-07-31T06:35:54+00:00" language: "en-GB" --- [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/33/IonSense-33534777.png)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1946:ionsense-appoints-jeff-zonderman-as-ceo-as-it-expands-its-direct-analysis-mass-spectrometry-technology-to-new-platforms&catid=12) ## [IonSense Appoints Jeff Zonderman as CEO as it expands its direct analysis mass spectrometry technology to new platforms](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1946:ionsense-appoints-jeff-zonderman-as-ceo-as-it-expands-its-direct-analysis-mass-spectrometry-technology-to-new-platforms&catid=12) Written by Zoe Rutherford on 03 June 2021. IonSense (Saugus, MA), a leading provider of Open Air/Ambient Ionization sources, systems and integrated solutions for the $5B Mass Spectrometry marketplace, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jeffrey Zonderman as President and Chief Executive Officer. The appointment is key to the company’s strategy for accelerated growth in applied markets including forensic and security applications. Mr Zonderman brings experience gained from commercializing disruptive technologies at early-stage ventures including RedShift Bioanalytics and Cohesive Technologies, as well as major instrument manufacturers including Thermo Fisher Scientific and Waters Corporation. “Mass Spec is finally catching up with IonSense’s DART”, comments Jeff Zonderman. “The inherent limitations of traditional LC/MS have held scientists back from utilizing the rapid screening capability of DART and its enablement of “Swab and Detect” workflows. Increased performance at a lower cost expands the realm of what’s historically been possible by mass spec instrumentation. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to join the IonSense team at such an exciting time”. “We are thrilled Jeff has joined IonSense as his experience positions him well to lead the company and achieve our strategic vision,” said Bob Linke, Executive Chairman of the Board. “I’d also like to thank Dr. Brian Musselman whose contributions in founding and leading the company to establish the DART technology in labs around the world have been tremendous. We are pleased to announce Dr. Musselman will take on the newly created role as IonSense’s Chief Technology Officer to guide proprietary DART technology through its next stage of growth outside the central lab. Brian’s vision will continue to play a key role developing IonSense’s technologies to achieve our strategic goals.” DART analyses a broad variety of analytes in their native form, arming analytical chemists with the means to rapidly identify samples, including many that don’t ionize well using other methods such as LC-MS. As an open-air ionization source, DART requires no sample preparation. It provides immediate answers, boosting efficiency of analysis. DART’s real-time operation and versatility toward analytes give users the ability to rapidly identify unknown compounds, to explore new applications, and to accelerate research. To find out more about the DART system, please visit www.ionsense.com or contact the company at [](https://cbrneworld.com/javascript:/*%20This%20email%20address%20is%20being%20protected%20from%20spambots.*/) [![](https://cbrneworld.com/images/adverts/1064Defender-Image.jpg#thumbnail=%2C&srcset=1)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1887:thermo-scientific-1064defender-raman-analyzer&catid=12) ## [The New Thermo Scientific 1064Defender Raman Analyzer](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1887:thermo-scientific-1064defender-raman-analyzer&catid=12) Written by Zoe Rutherford on 03 June 2021. [Thermo Scientific 1064Defender Raman Analyzer](https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/1064Defender#/1064Defender?cid=CAD_FSI_Security_ChemID_CBRNe_0321_A133_&leadsource=DigitalAdvertisement) [Read more …The New Thermo Scientific 1064Defender Raman Analyzer](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1887:thermo-scientific-1064defender-raman-analyzer&catid=12) [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/9e/Teledyne-FLIR-9ef6c1da.jpeg)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1943:teledyne-flir-introduces-new-identifinder-r700-backpack-radiation-detector&catid=12) ## [Teledyne FLIR Introduces New identiFINDER R700 Backpack Radiation Detector](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1943:teledyne-flir-introduces-new-identifinder-r700-backpack-radiation-detector&catid=12) Written by Zoe Rutherford on 02 June 2021. Teledyne FLIR, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, today announced the launch of the identiFINDER® R700 Backpack Radiation Detector, an advanced mobile system that offers unparalleled capability for broad-area radiological monitoring missions. The company also announced that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has placed the first order for the device as part of its Helium-3 Alternative Implementation Backpack Program (HAIBP). Programmed out of the Counter Weapons of Mass Destruction office, the $6.5 million award spans nine months of product deliveries. Building on the technology of the award-winning identiFINDER R440, the R700 offers increased sensitivity and speed for identifying radioactive threats using advanced spectroscopic algorithm and detection techniques. The R700’s flexible and portable design allows users to configure the system as either a backpack or a stationary device, enabling mission sets from wide area searches to temporary checkpoints. “The identiFINDER R700 gives public safety agencies a powerful new tool with unmatched capabilities to screen large areas for radiation quickly,” said Dr. David Cullin, VP for Detection Systems at Teledyne FLIR. “With its connected mobile phone app and low profile backpack, radiation threats can be detected, identified and tracked discreetly at mass gatherings, transportation hubs, or public events. “Teledyne is proud to partner with the Department of Homeland Security to help it bring a higher level of performance and coverage to those who protect lives and livelihoods by serving as America’s first line of defense,” Cullin added. The identiFINDER R700 is the most sensitive radiation detection system in the company’s line-up. When coupled with Teledyne FLIR’s other best-selling Radionuclide Identification Devices (RIDs) or Spectroscopic Personal Radiation Detectors (SPRDs), organizations will have a comprehensive person-borne radiation screening system that can provide personal protection, point detection, and wide-area screening. As with all Teledyne FLIR radiation detection systems, the R700 provides the capability to do so in real-time and on-demand. The instrument can be monitored and controlled remotely using the mobile phone application. Built in wireless communications and a robust API also allow integration with user-deployed networks. Teledyne FLIR began shipments for the HAIBP program in May. The R700 will be made available to other customers starting in Q3-2021. To learn more, visit [](http://www.teledyneflir.com/r700). [Detection](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/detection), [Radiation](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/radiation) ## [Sweden Shut Down Infectious Disease Database After Intrusions](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1942:sweden-shut-down-infectious-disease-database-after-intrusions&catid=12) Written by Zoe Rutherford on 02 June 2021. [From Gov Info Security ](https://www.govinfosecurity.com/) [SmiNet](https://www.folkhalsomyndigheten.se/nyheter-och-press/nyhetsarkiv/2021/maj/folkhalsomyndigheten-anmaler-forsok-till-dataintrang-mot-sminet/), Sweden’s infectious diseases database, was temporarily shut down last week by the country’s public health agency, Folkhälsomyndigheten, following several attempted cyber intrusions. The Thursday shutdown interrupted the reporting of [COVID-19](https://covid19.inforisktoday.com/) statistics. The public health agency reports that it was able to restore the database on Friday. As a result of the temporary shutdown, the agency will not release an updated report on COVID-19 statistics until June 3, an agency spokesperson tells Information Security Media Group. The agency has not disclosed whether the attack involved [ransomware](https://ransomware.databreachtoday.com/). It reported the incident to the police and to the Swedish Authority for Privacy Protection. "Work is underway to investigate as quickly as possible whether anyone may have accessed sensitive personal data from the database, as well as sort out and rectify any deficiencies," the agency notes. "There is still no indication that any information has fallen into the wrong hands, but the investigation is still ongoing." **Early Detection** The agency has reported that it shut down its systems in response to intrusion attempts and is looking for weaknesses and fixing them. "Based on the information published, it seems likely that some early detection triggers initiated the shutdown of the database system, and that further investigation highlighted necessary additional measures for it, which are currently implemented,” Dirk Schrader, global vice president of security research at New Net Technologies, a cybersecurity and compliance software provider, tells Information Security Media Group. **Another Swedish Incident** In another recent security incident in Sweden, [Elekta](https://www.healthcareinfosecurity.com/attack-on-radiation-systems-vendor-affects-cancer-treatment-a-16468), a Swedish vendor of oncology radiation systems took down its cloud-based systems in April while recovering from a cyberattack. That affected many of its clients, including Yale New Haven Health Medical Center in Connecticut, which said that it was forced to temporarily take all its radiation equipment offline. [Threat](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/threat) [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/af/NVFC-750-afeeae49.jpeg)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1941:application-now-open-for-chemtrec-help-award-to-support-hazmat-incident-preparedness&catid=12) ## [Application Now Open for CHEMTREC HELP Award to Support Hazmat Incident Preparedness](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1941:application-now-open-for-chemtrec-help-award-to-support-hazmat-incident-preparedness&catid=12) Written by Zoe Rutherford on 02 June 2021. The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) and CHEMTREC are pleased to announce that in honor of CHEMTREC’s 50th anniversary, five U.S. volunteer fire departments will each receive $10,000 through the 2021 CHEMTREC HELP (Hazmat Emergencies Local Preparedness) Awards. CHEMTREC is the world’s leading source of 24/7 call center support and information during hazardous materials incidents. This is the third year that CHEMTREC and the NVFC have partnered to offer the HELP Awards to volunteer fire departments. To date, four departments have received a total of $35,000 to bolster their hazardous materials incident response capabilities and increase local readiness for hazmat events. “Congratulations to CHEMTREC for its 50 years of service to the first responder community,” said NVFC chair Steve Hirsch. “We are excited to partner once again to help our nation’s volunteer firefighters be better prepared and equipped for a hazmat incident and are grateful for the continuous support you provide to our volunteers.” “Supporting first responders is at the core of our mission, so CHEMTREC could not think of a better way to celebrate our 50th anniversary then to provide $50,000 towards the HELP Awards this year,” said CHEMTREC interim chief executive Chris Brown. “We look forward to continuing our partnership with the NVFC and supporting volunteer firefighters.” Departments must meet the following requirements to be eligible to apply for the 2021 CHEMTREC HELP Awards: - Be over 50% volunteer - Serve a population of 25,000 or less - Have an income of no more than $250,000 for the most recently completed fiscal year - Be located in the United States and legally organized under state law - Demonstrate in the application essay the department’s need to receive the award - Chief or individual applying on behalf of the department must be a member of the NVFC. Learn about member benefits and join at[www.nvfc.org/join](http://www.nvfc.org/join). Only one application will be accepted per department. Past recipients of the HELP Award must wait five years before reapplying. Departments that receive the award must use the money to increase their department’s hazmat response capabilities and not for any other purpose. The award cannot be redistributed. The application period is open until September 1. View full criteria and access the application at [](https://www.chemtrec.com/emergency-responders/help-award). **About CHEMTREC** [CHEMTREC®](https://www.chemtrec.com/) is the leading source of 24/7 call center support and information during hazardous materials incidents. CHEMTREC is the single point of contact that connects emergency responders with everyone involved – manufacturers, shippers, consignees, carriers, and government agencies. CHEMTREC is equipped to handle any situation and any class of hazardous material. CHEMTREC’s team of trained, experienced Emergency Service Specialists provide emergency responders with the information they need to safely and effectively manage chemical shipping incidents, including guidebooks, training opportunities, and industry resources. CHEMTREC’s service is complimentary for emergency responders. **About the NVFC** The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is the leading nonprofit membership association representing the interests of the volunteer fire, emergency medical, and rescue services. The NVFC serves as the voice of the volunteer in the national arena and provides critical advocacy, resources, programs, and education for first responders across the nation. Learn more at [www.nvfc.org](http://www.nvfc.org/). [Hazmat](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/hazmat) ## [The 4030 ELITE Bomb Disposal Suit](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1940:launch-of-the-new-4030-elite-bomb-disposal-suit&catid=12) Written by Zoe Rutherford on 01 June 2021. Global armour manufacturer, NP Aerospace, has extended its Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) portfolio with the launch of a next generation Bomb Disposal Suit targeting North America and other strategic global markets. The 4030 ELITE Bomb Disposal Suit and Helmet System is the result of extensive collaboration with EOD operators and uses cutting edge technology to meet the requirements of NIJ 0117.01\*, the US National Institute of Justice Public Safety Bomb Suit standard. It introduces a new approach to EOD protection, delivering superior survivability and enhanced ergonomics at a reduced weight. The 4030 ELITE Suit provides a scalable platform where communication and cooling systems can be integrated within the base suit without full scale upgrades – a cost efficiency benefit for defence and security organisations. NP Aerospace entered the EOD market in 2004 with a bomb disposal suit designed for British Forces in Northern Ireland and has expanded its presence with multiple global customers. **Key enhancements to the 4030 ELITE include:** • New suit and frontal armour plate design, delivering 360° protection, with seamless coverage of critical areas • Enhanced fit and mobility enabling extended wear and access in confined spaces • Advanced EOD helmet design for enhanced optical performance and impact protection • Increased size range to fit 5th percentile female to 99th percentile male operators • Additional safety features for fast, emergency suit removal (less than 30 seconds) • User configurable with full system integration (communications, cooling, CBRN) **James Kempston, CEO, NP Aerospace,** comments: “NP Aerospace has an extensive EOD heritage designing and manufacturing bomb suits for global customers. Our new 4030 ELITE continues that heritage and allows us to target customers requiring NIJ compliance with a cost effective, high performance solution. Operators and procurement teams are looking for the high levels of blast protection and enhanced mobility which NP Aerospace suits provide while ticking the boxes on budget. “The 4030 ELITE offers a highly modular and scalable system with the option to build and accessorize the suit around the user’s requirements. It also provides excellent ergonomics and dexterity due to our patents in flexible armour construction. This has been a major development and we are looking forward to the next phase in our EOD growth.” EOD and Tactical Search suits are part of the NP Aerospace high-performance defence systems range which includes Ballistic Helmets and Shields, Body Armour Plates and Composite Armour for vehicles, vessels or aircraft. \*The 4030 ELITE is NIJ compliant. Certification is in progress [Protection](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/protection), [Explosive](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/explosive) [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/b0/EU-Symbol-b031cd42.jpeg)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1939:eu-conducts-workshop-to-assess-chemical-biological-risks-in-pakistan-health-sector&catid=12) ## [EU conducts workshop to assess Chemical, Biological risks in Pakistan Health Sector](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1939:eu-conducts-workshop-to-assess-chemical-biological-risks-in-pakistan-health-sector&catid=12) Written by Zoe Rutherford on 27 May 2021. from eeas.europa.eu A virtual workshop was held to ascertain risks connected with handling and disposal of chemical and biological substances, especially in Pakistan’s health sector, which is even more crucial during the pandemic. The workshop was conducted under the European Union Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Risk Mitigations Centres of Excellence initiative. It was attended by representatives and from various government ministries and the National Institute of Health. The EU CBRN Risk Mitigation Centres of Excellence Initiative was launched in 2010 by the European Union and provides a platform for voluntary regional cooperation on all CBRN-related hazard issues. The aim of the Centres of Excellence Initiative is to help partner countries mitigate risks and build a culture of safety, security and preparedness. EU support is provided to implement a wide range of CBRN Risk Mitigation activities including needs and risk assessments, national and regional action plans and trainings in all 62 Partner Countries. At the opening session, EU Ambassador to Pakistan Androulla Kaminara, said: “Cooperation is key to addressing and mitigating CBRN risks. These workshops offer the possibility to have an open and substantial discussion on risk mitigation. The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre has developed tools for this purpose including the Needs Assessment Questionnaire, being discussed today, which could contribute to a wider national strategy. Pakistan is committed to strengthening prevention, mitigation and response to Chemical and Biological risks and the EU stands available to support Pakistan throughout the whole process.” In the Central Asia region of the CoE, several countries have already completed the CBRN National Action Plans including Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, while others are underway. Pakistan has been involved in seven Centre of Excellence projects implemented in the Central Asia region, on topics including strengthening Public Health Laboratories for mitigating risks linked to climate change, addressing chemical and biological waste management and preparedness and response to mass gatherings and other health threats. Promoting EU-Pakistan cooperation in science, technology and innovation is also a priority under the EU-Pakistan Strategic Engagement Plan to further enhance engagement between both sides. This includes through knowledge sharing, development of links between research institutions and exchange of information on opportunities for research cooperation. The EU Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Risk Mitigation Centres of Excellence (CoE) Initiative is funded and implemented by the European Union through the [Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI)](https://ec.europa.eu/international-partnerships/system/files/factsheet-mff-multiannual-financial-framework-v08-clean_0.pdf), the EU’s main international cooperation instrument supporting security initiatives and peace-building activities in Partner Countries. The Initiative is led by the European Commission’s [Service for Foreign Policy Instruments (FPI)](https://ec.europa.eu/fpi/home_en), in close coordination with the [European External Action Service (EEAS)](https://eeas.europa.eu/headquarters/headquarters-homepage_en). For further details: [](https://europa.eu/cbrn-risk-mitigation/index_en)[https://europa.eu/cbrn-risk-mitigation/index\_en](https://europa.eu/cbrn-risk-mitigation/index_en) For more details about the EU-Pakistan Strategic Engagement Plan: [](https://eeas.europa.eu/regions/asia/64586/eu-pakistan-strategic-engagement-plan_en)[https://eeas.europa.eu/regions/asia/64586/eu-pakistan-strategic-engagement-plan\_en](https://eeas.europa.eu/regions/asia/64586/eu-pakistan-strategic-engagement-plan_en) More information on the European Union’s cooperation with Pakistan can be found here: [](https://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/pakistan/area/projects_en)[https://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/pakistan/area/projects\_en](https://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/pakistan/area/projects_en) [Chemical](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/chemical), [Biological](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/biological) ## [Defense Office Brings Small Tech Companies Into Big League](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1938:defense-office-brings-small-tech-companies-into-big-league&catid=12) Written by Zoe Rutherford on 27 May 2021. By C. Todd Lopez, DOD News The biggest U.S. defense contractors — such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, General Dynamics and Raytheon — provide many of the technologically advanced weapons and systems used by U.S. service members. But there are thousands of other technology companies in the U.S., some large and many quite small, with big ideas and capabilities that have never had the opportunity to contribute to the nation's defense, even though the idea may appeal to them. In March, the Quick Reaction Special Projects program, which is part of the Rapid Reaction Technology Office within the office of the undersecretary of defense for research and engineering, published the "2021 Global Needs Statement." The Global Needs Statement — which is just one of several proposal calls per year that RRTO engages with small and non-traditional companies to incubate innovation by showcasing new ideas and concepts to a Defense Department audience — asks interested companies to provide their most compelling and innovative technologies and ideas in areas involving artificial intelligence and machine learning; autonomy; biotechnology; cyber; directed energy; fully networked command, communication and control; hypersonics; microelectronics; quantum technology; space and 5G communications. Those technology areas are of great interest to the Defense Department and were spelled out in the 2018 [National Defense Strategy](https://dod.defense.gov/Portals/1/Documents/pubs/2018-National-Defense-Strategy-Summary.pdf); respondents to the Global Needs Statement aren't expected to be the big players who usually get the government contracts. "For this particular initiative ... the vast majority of the companies that submit applications are companies that DOD doesn't do business with on a regular basis or at all," said John Lazar, RRTO's Director. "We're trying to bring in more companies that DOD either doesn't know about or rarely does business with. We limit companies to 100 words on their applications to make it even easier to get their ideas in front of DOD." Working with DOD can be quite daunting or bureaucratically challenging for some small companies, which can have a chilling effect on engagement. It's something RRTO can help with, Lazar said. "Part of what our RRTO engages in, not just in this particular program but with many of our programs, is mentoring and teaching these businesses how to do business with the Defense Department," he said. "We help them with white papers, proposals — whatever the DOD customer is looking for. We help them communicate." While the window for submitting proposals for the 2021 Global Needs Statement closed in April, more than 650 responses to the statement were received. A second needs statement is open through early June, and more will occur throughout the year. RRTO will then read through the submissions and evaluate them with subject matter experts, finding the best of the best to bring forward to potential customers inside the Defense Department. Then, Lazar said, DOD customers such as the military services, combatant commands and defense agencies will help decide which submissions they think have the highest potential for payoff. "Those companies will then engage directly with those DOD customers ... from there, it's out of RRTO's hands, and it's between the company and that defense customer," Lazar said. The DOD customer will work with the company in question to further develop technology proposals that have been brought forward into products that can meet their needs, Pena said. By the end of June, about 35 of the 650 companies who submitted proposals this year will have been selected to move forward with continued talks with DOD customers, and eventually, that number will be down-selected further. But the end result will be Defense Department access to new companies bringing ideas that might not have been seen before. Last year, as part of the Quick Reaction Special Projects program's "innovation outreach" effort, 1,600 companies responded to open-ended DOD needs statements. In previous years, new companies such as FireEye (cybersecurity), MotionDSP (software and image processing), Saratoga Data (software/engineering), and Tectus (virtual/augmented reality) became DOD partners — joining the ranks of much larger defense contractors who for decades have helped meet warfighter needs. With this latest Global Needs Statement effort, Lazar said, DOD once again hopes to bring on board new companies with new ideas that can provide even better tools to help service members meet the nation's defense needs. "What we're looking for are highly innovative companies with new technologies that have the potential to provide leap-ahead capabilities against near-peer adversaries and fill gaps in critical joint mission needs," Lazar said. [![](https://cbrneworld.com/images/News-Images/ChemSec-Logo.png#thumbnail=%2C&srcset=1)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1937:eu-measures-to-tackle-hazardous-chemicals-build-on-incorrect-data&catid=12) ## [EU measures to tackle hazardous chemicals build on incorrect data ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1937:eu-measures-to-tackle-hazardous-chemicals-build-on-incorrect-data&catid=12) Written by Zoe Rutherford on 27 May 2021. EU authorities recently reported that the production and use of hazardous chemicals in everyday products have been reduced by 97 percent in the EU. However, the official registry for chemical volumes doesn’t show any reduction at all. Experts agree that the data in the registry is off. The problem is that important regulatory actions designed to protect EU citizens from hazardous chemicals are based on this incorrect data. Early this year the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) sent out a [press release](https://publish.ne.cision.com/l/gflwnhpic/www.echa.europa.eu/-/reach-authorisation-has-positive-health-and-environmental-impacts) stating that the use of hazardous chemicals has been reduced by 97 percent in the EU. The chemicals that ECHA referred to are on the Authorization List, and are widely regarded as the most problematic industrial chemicals. Here we find, for example, phthalates like DEHP ([which is frequently found in food packaging](https://publish.ne.cision.com/l/gflwnhpic/chemsec.org/testing-finds-that-8-out-of-10-packaging-materials-for-food-contain-highly-toxic-chemicals)) and various chromium compounds that are highly carcinogenic, among others. Companies that want to continue producing these chemicals need to apply for authorisation with ECHA. ECHA’s press release was naturally met with optimism, as there’s a wide consensus about the importance of reducing the use of the chemicals on the Authorization List, especially in consumer products. To calculate the reduction – 97 percent – ECHA simply added up the volumes in all company applications for authorization and compared it with historical data. So far, so good. However, there’s another set of volume data that tells a completely different story: the registration data. Any chemical company that wants to sell its chemicals on the EU market first needs to register the chemical and production volume with ECHA. When we looked at the registration data and the changes in production volumes over the last 11 years (2010–2020), especially for the chemicals on the Authorisation List, ChemSec found that there has been no reduction at all. In fact, the production volumes of most chemicals on the Authorisation List have remained the same. Only five chemicals have a reduced volume, while four (out of 40 chemicals) are actually being produced in larger quantities today than compared to a decade ago. All in all, the registration data says that over five million tonnes of the chemicals on the Authorisation List are being produced! That’s obviously a far cry from the 97 percent reduction stated in ECHA’s press release. How come the two data sets tell such different stories and what are the implications of this? In order to understand what is going on here, one first needs to grasp the basics of how chemicals are put on the EU market. As mentioned before, chemical companies need to register their chemicals with ECHA to gain access to the EU market. Besides very rudimentary toxicology data concerning the potential effect that the chemical might have on human health and the environment, all registrations need to include information about the chemical’s production volume. The volume is declared in so-called tonnage bands: 1–10 tonnes, 10–100, 100–1000, or more than 1000 tonnes per year. Each tonnage band requires producers to provide more and more detailed information, with the largest tonnage band, over one thousand tonnes, naturally requiring the most. But once a company has declared that it intends to produce more than the largest tonnage band, over one thousand tonnes per year, it does not matter at all how much is actually produced. It could produce one tonne or one million tonnes – the information requirement remains the same. “So what?” you might ask. This skewed registry of production volumes creates several problems, as many important regulatory actions are based on it. We will get back to that, but first we want show you how it also opens up a very serious regulatory loophole. Let’s say you produce two chemicals. Chemical A’s production volume is 1500 tonnes, and chemical B’s production volume is one tonne. Obviously, chemical A is the most important to you from an economic standpoint as it is produced in much larger quantities. What you could do is inform ECHA when you submit your chemical registration that you intend to produce 1 million tonnes of chemical B, even if you actually only intend to produce one tonne. Since regulatory action is triggered by the volume, and high-volume chemicals come first, ECHA will prioritise chemical B for scrutiny. And while ECHA is occupied with your chemical B, which is of low priority to you since you are actually only producing one tonne of it anyway, you can continue to produce chemical A – the real high-volume chemical – uninterrupted. How long can you stall the process like this? Well, so far ECHA has had to spend years working through chemical registrations that provide incomplete and outright incorrect data. If we had to guess, we believe that it is not uncommon for chemical producers to use this [loophole](https://publish.ne.cision.com/l/gflwnhpic/chemsec.org/the-ultimate-guide-to-cheat-regulation-and-sell-toxic-chemicals-in-the-eu). To add injury to insult, virtually all regulatory processes aimed at reducing chemicals of concern in consumer products are triggered based on the volumes stated in the registrations. Yes, you read it right: the very same chemical volumes that are over 5 million tonnes off! An even more chilling thought is that the surplus volumes stated in the registrations may in fact be shipped and sold on other continents. There’s nothing in the law that stops chemical companies from doing this. So, while the EU has less chemicals from the Authorisation List in circulation, the actual production volumes of these chemicals could just as well be the same as ten years ago, the only difference being that they are not sold in the EU market. Nobody really knows, because there’s no corporate penalty for not keeping information about chemical volumes updated. [Chemical](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/chemical) [![](https://cbrneworld.com/images/events/sponsor_logos/BioFlyte_logo_002.png#thumbnail=%2C&srcset=1)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1936:bioflyte-launches-first-field-deployable-airborne-covid-19-detection-system-to-improve-school-and-workplace-safety&catid=12) ## [BioFlyte Launches First Field Deployable Airborne COVID-19 Detection System to Improve School and Workplace Safety](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1936:bioflyte-launches-first-field-deployable-airborne-covid-19-detection-system-to-improve-school-and-workplace-safety&catid=12) Written by Zoe Rutherford on 27 May 2021. [BioFlyte](https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbioflyte.com%2F&esheet=52435704&newsitemid=20210526005382&lan=en-US&anchor=BioFlyte&index=1&md5=cb7a6962a4858904991d6bda85ea7f5e), a biodetection company with a new class of fieldable biological threat collection, detection, and identification solutions, today announced the launch of the Sentinel™ Airborne COVID-19 Detection System for real-world surveillance of airborne coronavirus and other respiratory pathogens. As schools, factories and other workplaces re-open, monitoring for COVID-19 infections will remain a necessary part of safety protocols, especially in schools where many young children have not been vaccinated. While some workplaces have relied thus far upon testing only a random sample of people, that can be unreliable, and frequent testing of every employee or student using a rapid, on-site test is costly and time intensive. Environmental monitoring with the Sentinel system is a faster and more cost-effective way to identify if there is an infected person present and help reduce prolonged exposure. The Sentinel solution includes BioFlyte’s BioCapture z720 handheld air sampler and the [BioFire Defense, Inc.](https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.biofiredefense.com%2F&esheet=52435704&newsitemid=20210526005382&lan=en-US&anchor=BioFire+Defense%2C+Inc.&index=2&md5=b508feda2d2c5055f6c60862dcfca45f) FilmArray PCR sample analysis system. Other airborne coronavirus sampling, detection and identification systems are laboratory-based and require a day for shipment and processing at an offsite lab to determine results. The Sentinel offers flexibility with the handheld BioCapture for quick on-site sampling, and the BioFire’s multiplex PCR technology offers results at the point of need in under an hour, all at a lower price point than competitive solutions. The BioCapture z720 is the highest-performing handheld air sampler on the market and was built upon standard dry filter collection and extraction technology validated through years of testing. The z720 delivers high-flow rate collection onto an advanced filter material with predictable sample extraction. Through testing with a leading university hospital in the U.S., the BioCapture z720 was determined to be effective at collecting airborne SARS-CoV-2 virus into a 5 mL liquid sample and obtaining a positive PCR test result from that sample using the FilmArray. [Critical Environmental Remediation Industries](https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.critical4u.com%2F&esheet=52435704&newsitemid=20210526005382&lan=en-US&anchor=Critical+Environmental+Remediation+Industries&index=3&md5=d31431a31540a4a4ae0ee01b62937f32) (CERI), a Michigan based indoor air quality company, recently invested in the Sentinel system and is actively deploying it for maritime safety, and in industrial and residential workplace safety applications. "The BioFlyte Sentinel solution not only delivers significant cost savings for clients, it also helps ensure workplace safety,” said Morgan Fisher, Vice President at CERI. “Our clients are now able to reliably identify the presence of airborne coronavirus and other pathogens in about an hour, instead of the days typically required by traditional methods, which helps reduce operational downtime." “BioFlyte’s focus has always been critical infrastructure protection and emergency response, and over the past year, that has meant pandemic response,” said Dr. Charles Call, cofounder and Chief Executive Officer of BioFlyte. “We used our talent and technology to develop and validate a revolutionary new tool in the fight against COVID-19, especially as schools and workplaces look to reopen safely. The Sentinel was purpose built for environmental monitoring for COVID-19 and other airborne respiratory pathogens and offers decision makers a more cost-effective solution than traditional surveillance methods and even other airborne pathogen samplers on the market.” The Sentinel solution is available for purchase now. For more information on the system and how to order, please visit [](https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sentinel720.bioflyte.com%2F&esheet=52435704&newsitemid=20210526005382&lan=en-US&anchor=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sentinel720.bioflyte.com%2F&index=4&md5=66ebdae80b5546aa86287d84f666aa69). For more information about BioFlyte and its products, please visit: [](https://cts.businesswire.com/ct/CT?id=smartlink&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbioflyte.com%2F&esheet=52435704&newsitemid=20210526005382&lan=en-US&anchor=https%3A%2F%2Fbioflyte.com%2F&index=5&md5=4624dc4a209a82c108d199fbb9912bae). [Detection](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/detection), [Threat](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/threat), [Identification](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/identification), [Biological](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/biological) [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/e0/Milrem-AEC-e0f1b049.jpeg)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1935:aec-skyline-and-milrem-robotics-join-forces&catid=12) ## [AEC Skyline and Milrem Robotics join forces](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1935:aec-skyline-and-milrem-robotics-join-forces&catid=12) Written by Zoe Rutherford on 25 May 2021. Dutch defence company AEC Skyline and Europe’s leading robotics and autonomous systems developer Milrem Robotics signed a Memorandum of Understanding last week to cooperate in the development of unmanned systems. The MoU that was signed by Stef Have, director of AEC Skyline Holding and Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics paves the way for joint development, testing and validation of products and software in the fields of activity of both parties. Under the teaming agreement AEC Skyline will act as an integration partner of Milrem Robotics products including the THeMIS and Multiscope unmanned ground vehicles as well as the Type-X Robotic Combat Vehicle. AEC will also engage with the Dutch Ministry of Defence as well as with potential civilian customers, primarily in the Netherlands. With six THeMIS UGVs already being operated by the Royal Netherlands Army’s Robotics & Autonomous Systems unit under a concept development & experimentation (CD&E) scheme, both parties now aim to position Milrem Robotics’ solutions for future requirements of the Dutch MoD including the use of manned-unmanned teaming. The parties are looking into requirements that might lead to the integration of new technologies and payloads including (tethered) UAS, sensors and armaments into UGVs. The companies are also analysing how UAS data can enhance AI and autonomous navigation solutions developed by Milrem Robotics and enhance their Intelligent Functions. “AEC’s tethered drone technology is a welcome addition to the list of capabilities required in the development of the European Unmanned Ground System during the iMUGS project, which is why Milrem has invited AEC to contribute with their technology,” said Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics. AEC Skyline’s director Stef Have added: “we look forward to contributing to Milrem Robotics’ range of products, adding significant systems integration expertise to the partnership while engaging with the end-user, both military and civilian.” The companies have already identified counter-UAS technology and the development of a new integrated user interface as specific areas of cooperation. **About Milrem Robotics** Milrem Robotics is Europe’s leading robotics and autonomous systems developer. The company has two offices in Estonia, one in Sweden and Finland and shortly one in the Netherlands. Milrem Robotics is the leader of a consortium that was awarded 30,6 MEUR from the European Commission’s European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP) to develop a European standardised unmanned ground system (UGS). During the project, titled iMUGS, a modular and scalable architecture for hybrid manned-unmanned systems will be developed to standardise a European wide ecosystem for aerial and ground platforms, command, control and communications equipment, sensors, payloads, and algorithms. **About AEC Skyline.** AEC Skyline brings extensive networking and systems integration expertise. The company also represents a number of OEMs including L3Harris Communications Systems West, Haivision, Persistent Systems and Elistair. In addition to critical data solutions, AEC Skyline provides ISR and fast air support to the military, the defence and aerospace industry and to various research institutes. The company’s aerial services include close air support, EW, “red air” training, remote sensing and target towing with its fleet operating out of Groningen Airport Eelde and Breda International Airport. [CBRNe](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/cbrne), [Drone](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/drones), [UGV](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/ugv) [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/dd/WHO-Logo-dd75ae26.jpeg)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1934:who-and-switzerland-launch-global-biohub-for-pathogen-storage-sharing-and-analysis&catid=12) ## [WHO and Switzerland launch global BioHub for pathogen storage, sharing and analysis](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1934:who-and-switzerland-launch-global-biohub-for-pathogen-storage-sharing-and-analysis&catid=12) Written by Zoe Rutherford on 24 May 2021. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Swiss Confederation today signed a Memorandum of Understanding to launch the first WHO BioHub Facility as part of the WHO BioHub System, which was announced in November 2020. This facility will enhance the rapid sharing of viruses and other pathogens between laboratories and partners globally. Based in Spiez, Switzerland, the facility will serve as a centre for the safe receipt, sequencing, storage and preparation of biological materials for distribution to other laboratories, in order to inform risk assessments, and sustain global preparedness against these pathogens. “Close international collaboration to ensure the timely sharing of epidemiological and clinical data as well as biological materials is of utmost importance. Switzerland supports the WHO BioHub initiative in its initial phase by providing the necessary infrastructure of a Swiss biosafety laboratory in Spiez. With this, we hope to contribute to the establishment of an international exchange system for SARS-CoV-2 and other emerging pathogens,” said Swiss Federal Councillor Alain Berset. Currently, most pathogen sharing is done bilaterally between countries and on an *ad hoc* basis, which can be slow, and leave some countries without access to the benefits and tools. The BioHub will enable Member States to share biological materials with and via the BioHub under pre-agreed conditions, including biosafety, biosecurity, and other applicable regulations. This will ensure timeliness and predictability in response activities. “The COVID-19 pandemic and other outbreaks and epidemics have underscored the importance of rapidly sharing pathogens to help the global scientific community assess the risk and develop countermeasures such as diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “The BioHub System is an important step towards facilitating this flow of information. We thank the Swiss Government for its support in establishing the first BioHub Facility.” In parallel, WHO will broaden its BioHub System for the use of biological materials by qualified entities – such as manufacturers – for the development of medical by-products for fair allocation to countries. WHO is currently running a pilot phase, using SARS-COV-2 and its variants, to test the feasibility and operational arrangements for sharing such materials with the facilities of the BioHub System**.** Following results from the pilot project, the BioHub will expand from SARS-COV-2 and its variants, to other pathogens, and connect partners with other repositories and laboratory networks in 2022. [Biological](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/biological) ## [MRICD develops chemical exposure field diagnostic system](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1933:mricd-develops-chemical-exposure-field-diagnostic-system&catid=12) Written by Zoe Rutherford on 24 May 2021. From APG News: Drawing from the technology used by diabetics to monitor their glucose levels, Dr. Shane Kasten at the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense developed an ultra-portable, easy to use device to provide early warning of suspected exposure to a chemical warfare nerve agent. The ChemDx Test System is designed to inform both medical and commander decisions as to the timely use of medical countermeasures, thereby enhancing survivability of chemical casualties on the battlefield and lowering the burden on the medical response. A utility patent for the device was issued on February 9, 2021. Dermal exposure to some chemical warfare nerve agents can have a latent or pre-symptomatic period. However, even prior to the development of overt signs and symptoms, the enzymatic activity of certain blood cholinesterase enzymes may become depressed following exposure. Specifically measuring the activity of acetylcholinesterase in the blood is an extremely sensitive method of determining whether an exposure to chemical nerve agents has occurred. With the ChemDx Test System, the warfighter can, with minimal training, use a blood sample from a simple finger stick during this pre-symptomatic window to obtain a real-time assessment of acetylcholinesterase inhibition. As with a glucometer and glucose strips, the blood sample is applied to a specially configured test strip that has been inserted into the device for near real time determination of the level of acetylcholinesterase activity in circulation. An indication of potential exposure is displayed in less than 40 seconds. When Kasten began working at the MRICD in 2009, the need for a low burden, low complexity test system to provide indication of exposure prior to overt symptoms had already been identified as a technical gap. A few years later, a Department of Defense program was initiated to develop wearable sensors. Kasten says he was “immediately intrigued with this wearable idea, but knew the technical hurdles would be great.” He realized that a small handheld device could offer much of the same convenience as a wearable sensor while providing near real time assessment. Then while having dinner with his family at a fast food restaurant, Kasten observed an elderly woman quickly and easily test her glucose levels with a glucometer and test strips. This event also triggered memories of watching his sister use a glucometer daily to treat her diabetes. “That’s the moment I realized the glucometer/test strip was the most viable diagnostic platform for real time, far forward indication of exposure, potentially guiding treatment with a medical countermeasure therapy,” says Kasten. Kasten received seed funding to begin developing the reagent formulation and prototypes of the test strips after showing his test strips to a Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) science and technology manager visiting the MRICD. A full project from DTRA in 2017 resulted in the successful demonstration of the capabilities of the first prototype test strips and custom potentiostat to confirm exposure through an acetylcholinesterase assessment prior to the appearance of symptoms. In 2018 the Department of Defense made the decision to move the work to advanced development, which is being overseen by the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense. An Other Transactional Authority contract was awarded to MRI Global for the development of prototypes, in partnership with the MRICD and Conductive Technologies Inc., and for sponsorship of the device’s approval through the Food and Drug Administration. Over the past year, the MRICD provided analytical performance assessment of two successive prototypes of the ChemDx test system. These studies included evaluating the accuracy, linearity, precision and limits of detection/quantitation, and identifying potential interfering substances. Additionally, Kasten along with coworker Zachary Canter undertook feasibility efforts to determine whether the ChemDx test system capabilities could be expanded to indicate exposure to a synthetic opioid by detecting an opioid metabolite in biological specimens. The project is exploring materials than can provide the sensitivity, specificity and stability needed for a robust opioid sensor. Future work will continue to optimize the developed sensor, evaluate the sensor’s analytical performance and further integrate it into the ChemDx platform. [Detection](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/detection), [Threat](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/threat), [CBRNe](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/cbrne), [Chemical](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/chemical) ## Schema ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "News", "item": "https://cbrneworld.com/news" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Subscribers", "item": "https://cbrneworld.com/news/subscribers" } ] } ```