Kromek, a leading developer of radiation and bio-detection technology solutions for the advanced imaging and CBRN detection segments, is pleased to announce that its D3M detector has been named as the Personal Radiation Detector (“PRD”) under the UK Government Resilience Framework (the “Framework”). The Group has received its first order under the Framework from Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, which will use the D3M for its Detection, Identification and Monitoring (“DIM”) vehicles.  

The Framework is designed to strengthen the UK’s resilience system to prevent risks manifesting or crises happening where possible, addressing all serious threats to public safety and security. It focuses on the foundational building blocks of resilience, setting out a plan to 2030 to strengthen the frameworks, systems and capabilities that underpin the UK’s resilience to all civil contingencies risks.  

The D3M is the only PRD that has been pre-approved for purchase under the Framework, which is scheduled to be in place for four years. As a result, all blue light service operators in the UK, such as fire, police, ambulances and first responders, can purchase the D3M detector for projects under the Framework without going through a separate approval process.

Merseyside Fire & Rescue service have bought the D3M under their Detection, Identification and Monitoring (DIM) Equipment Uplift project, which involves acquiring equipment to enhance their capabilities for detection of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (“CBRN”) threats.

Arnab Basu, CEO of Kromek, said: “We are delighted that our D3M detector has been named as the only PRD under this significant UK initiative and to have received our first order from Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service. The D3M is a world-leading radiation detector that offers unprecedented situational awareness. Being selected for this framework is another validation of the strength of our solutions and opens up another important commercial avenue for our CBRN products. We look forward to supporting Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service and other emergency service operators in identifying potential radiological threats and keeping people safe.”

French police are investigating a suspicious letter sent to the interior minister that tested positive for yersinia pestis. 

The letter, unstamped, and with undisclosed “inscriptions” on the back, roused suspicions among workers. Inside, they discovered a black powder and a letter containing racist insults. 

Preliminary tests conducted by a CBRN unit are reported to have revealed a “slight positivity for the plague”. The local prosecutor’s office warned that the initial test results could be a “false positive” and said further analyses are being carried out. Full results are expected later. 

Originally published by Medpage Today. 

The CDC says a glitch in its bird flu test hasn't harmed the agency's outbreak response, but it has ignited scrutiny of its go-it-alone approach in testing for emerging pathogens.

The agency has quietly worked since April to resolve a nagging issue with the test it developed, even as the virus swept through dairy farms and chicken houses across the country and infected at least 13 farmworkers this year.

At a congressional hearing on July 23, Rep. Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.) asked about the issue. "Boy, that rings of 2020," he said, referring to when the nation was caught off guard by the COVID-19 pandemic, in part because of dysfunctional tests made by the CDC. Demetre Daskalakis, MD, MPH, director of the CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, responded that the agency rapidly developed a workaround that makes its bird flu test reliable.

"The tests are 100% usable," he later told KFF Health News, adding that the FDA studied the tests and came to the same conclusion. The imperfect tests, which have a faulty element that sometimes requires testing a sample again, will be replaced soon. He added, "We have made sure that we're offering a high-quality product."

Still, some researchers were unnerved by the news coming 4 months after the government declared a worrisome bird flu outbreak among cattle. The CDC's test is the only one available for clinical use. Some researchers say its flaws, though manageable, underscore the risk of relying on a single entity for testing.

The problem came to light in April as the agency prepared to distribute its test to about 100 public health labs around the country. CDC officials detected the issue through a quality control system put in place after the COVID test catastrophe of 2020.

Daskalakis said the CDC's original test design was fine, but a flaw emerged when a company contracted by the agency manufactured the tests in bulk. In these tests, one of two components that recognize proteins called H5 in the H5N1 bird flu virus was unreliable, eliminating an important safeguard. By targeting the same protein twice, tests have a built-in backup in case one part fails.

The agency developed a fix to ensure a reliable result: If only one of the two parts detected H5, the test was considered inconclusive and would be run again. With the FDA's blessing, the CDC distributed the tests -- with workaround instructions -- to public health labs.

Kelly Wroblewski, MPH, director of infectious diseases at the Association of Public Health Laboratories, said the results of the tests have not been ambiguous, and there is no need to discard the tests.

Still, the agency has asked a different manufacturer to remake the faulty component so that 1.2 million improved tests will be available soon, Daskalakis said. Some of the updated tests are already in stock at the CDC, but the FDA hasn't yet signed off on their use. Daskalakis declined to name the manufacturers.

Meanwhile, the outbreak has grown. Farmworkers continue to lack information about the virus and gear to protect themopens in a new tab or window from it. Rural clinics may miss cases if they don't catch a person's connection to a farm and notify health officials rather than their usual diagnostic testing laboratories.

A waste management specialist has introduced a new ground-breaking service to identify unlabelled chemicals, allowing for safe disposal. CSG has become the first waste management company in the UK to invest in a handheld Raman spectrometer, helping businesses and organisations which produce chemical wastes to operate safely and meet their legal obligations. Previously the only way to identify the contents of an unlabelled chemical container was to open it for sampling and analysis.  CSG has invested in a Raman spectrometer which enables accurate, through-barrier identification of hazardous chemicals at customers’ sites, without the need for containers to be opened.

CSG or one of its trusted partners can then arrange to dispose of the chemicals compliantly and safely. Dr Stuart Atkinson, who leads the Lab Chemical Waste Collection Team at CSG, said: “We are proud to be leading the industry in providing a solution to our customers for this common problem by making the unknown, known. “It’s inevitable that companies that produce hazardous waste end up with containers without proper labels, which can happen for many reasons including the label simply falling off.”

Dr Stuart added: “We were recently able to use the Raman spectrometer at a university where we found 244 small containers of unknown chemicals. We completed the job in just three days, correctly identifying the unknown substances for disposal with very high levels of accuracy. “We believe there are many containers of unknown chemicals across the country and we are expecting huge demand for this new service.”

Blackline Safety Corp.  a global leader in connected safety technology, has announced that it has released the new AlertLink feature for its award-winning EXO and G7 devices.

AlertLink proximity-based warning alerts increase employee safety via advance warning of potentially dangerous conditions, expediting evacuations and incident response. The company developed the feature after receiving feedback through their customer advisory panel that proximity-based warnings will enhance industrial safety.

Blackline Safety Channel partners are already seeing the benefits of the new feature. “We were excited to implement the AlertLink upgrade into our gas detection suite from Blackline, and it has impressed us. AlertLink has significantly improved the notification process for on-site personnel during high gas events, resulting in faster response times,” said Shawn Todd, American Safety Services General Manager.

AlertLink enables a Blackline device to share real-time alerts with nearby workers. When a device detects an event, such as high gas, gas sensor overlimit, a fall, no motion, or emergency SOS, it will immediately send a message to all devices within the defined radius—up to 5,000 meters (16,000 ft) from the source device.

The alert is also received by monitoring personnel, allowing companies to remotely trigger evacuations and provide exact location and situation details to emergency responders so they know what they are walking into.

A major U.S. energy company headquartered in the Permian Basin provided feedback early in the development of AlertLink. “We have a number of wellsites monitored by EXO devices, and having any incidents immediately communicated to nearby workers means we can address issues such as falls and gas exposures faster, while also keeping our people safer than ever before,” said a company representative. “We know this tool will be incredibly valuable for our teams, and we’re pleased Blackline invited our feedback.”

AlertLink is available for any Blackline G7 and EXO devices on monitored and self-monitored plans. Unlike competitor products, Blackline’s cloud-based system means G7 and EXO devices will automatically receive the AlertLink firmware update with no action required from the device user. Customers will simply need to log in to Blackline Live, the company’s cloud-based software platform, and set up their AlertLink profile to start using the new feature.

Designed with quick, drop-and-go deployment and built-in cellular and satellite connectivity, the EXO area monitor provides real-time data and sounds alarms both on the device itself and in Blackline’s monitoring software when it detects gas—protecting both people and the environment from hazardous situations. The wearable G7—with features such as multi-gas detection, SOS latch, fall and no motion detection, two-way voice, and real-time connectivity—provides a critical lifeline in case of emergency.

Originally published by European Security and Defence https://euro-sd.com/2024/07/major-news/39335/uav-based-cbrn-recon-system/

CNS Solutions & Support, a member of the Frequentis Group, announced on 16 July 2024 that it has completed the development of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) reconnaissance and surveillance system (RSS).

The system was developed on behalf of selected EU ministries of defence in the context of the European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP) CBRN-RSS project, co-funded by the European Union.

Frequentis Group explained in a press release that it has developed an innovative data fusion cell (DFC) to integrate sensor and uncrewed system data, through its incident crisis management (ICM) technology. The DFC serves as a centralised hub, seamlessly integrating information from various sources, including sensors and UAVs, facilitating comprehensive analysis and rapid decision making.

“Our DFC has transformed CBRN defence in Europe, empowering military personnel with real-time intelligence to respond swiftly and effectively to emerging threats,” Peter Skiczuk, vice president of defence for Frequentis, was quoted as saying.

“CNS is dedicated to enhancing CBRN defence technologies. Future phases will focus on readiness for full military deployment, ensuring continued security for European nations,” added Stefan Ringsmuth, managing director of CNS Solutions & Support GmbH.

The adoption of state-of-the-art technologies such as UAVs equipped with sensors and uncrewed robotic vehicles heralds a new era in CBRN defence. These uncrewed assets swiftly detect and assess hazardous substances, mitigating risks to human personnel. By leveraging data fusion and real-time analysis, commanders can gain critical insights to make informed decisions, ensuring the safety of both military personnel and civilians.

“Normally, it would take us two hours to achieve this result. With the use of these modern technologies, we can reduce this time to 40 to 45 minutes, and we don’t have to bring soldiers directly to the source of danger, as this is taken over by robots and drones,” said Colonel Schlechter, Commander of the CBRN Defence Center/Austria (ÖBH).

Blackline announced that it has secured a $1.9 million deal with a South African energy company. The deal is the largest in Blackline’s Middle East & Africa (MEA [Also known as Middle East and North Africa - Ed.]) region (Rest of World segment) and marks the company’s first significant contract in Africa. The energy company purchased approximately 500 G7c devices for their plant workers and almost 500 G6 devices to protect their contractors while they are on site. The company also purchased G7 and G6 Docks, Blackline’s simple solution to calibrating, bump testing and charging their wearable devices.

The customer standardized on Blackline devices across their entire organization. The deal demonstrates a growing trend as companies are increasingly understanding the depth of the Blackline platform to drive value across their operations, displacing a variety of legacy products.

“We’re pleased that the company has selected Blackline’s products and services,” said Peter Attalla, Blackline Safety Vice President of International Sales. “By the end of our first demo, the company realized that by choosing Blackline, they will get industry-leading connected safety technology across their operation while greatly simplifying their service providers and device management.”

The award-winning wearable G7—with features such as multi-gas detection, SOS latch, fall and no motion detection, two-way voice, and real-time connectivity—provides a critical lifeline in case of emergency. The award-winning G6 wearable single gas detector features real-time connectivity and an emergency SOS button. Both devices enable companies to take quick and informed action during an incident to better protect their people

Tragic Fire at South Korean Lithium Battery Factory
A fire at a lithium battery factory in South Korea last week claimed 22 lives. This tragedy underscores the growing risks of battery incidents. We're sharing an article from CNN about the event (in the commentary section). Over the past several years, incidents involving batteries have become more commonplace and, in many cases, more lethal.

Upcoming Webinar: Mitigating Battery Hazards
In 13 days, we will be hosting a webinar that addresses this critical issue. This webinar will walk operators through the use of chemical detection techniques to assist in determining tactical considerations based upon battery type.

Join Christina Baxter & Dr. Scott Hartley !

Date: 24 July
Register here : https://lnkd.in/gFSCeTU3

PROENGIN, pioneer in chemical and biological detection solutions and LACROIX Defense, leader in pyrotechnics and chemical compositions for Armed Forces, are thrilled to announce their collaboration in providing a revolutionary CBRN training simulant. Now part of REAL-XT training range of products from Lacroix, SIMTAC is the first aerosol chemical threat training simulant. PROENGIN & LACROIX have officially announced this partnership at Lacroix booth, booth B126 in Hall 5A.

In the current climate of high-intensity conflict, the rise of chemical threats with the arrival of 4th generation agents, and in preparation for hosting the Olympic Games, numerous security questions have been raised. Among these, the issue of security and safety in the face of CBRN threats is paramount. PROENGIN's detection solutions play a crucial role in protecting people and assets, thanks to its unique capacity to detect a large panel of threats in gas, solid, liquid, and especially in aerosol forms. These solutions are employed by military forces and first responder CBRN teams for continuous detection control of a site or for missions such as environmental verification of venues hosting crowds, suspicion of terrorist attacks, suspicious packages, VIP protection, entry control at stadiums, or in crisis management following a confirmed alarm for victim triage, establishing security perimeters, control of exits from high-risk areas, or hospital admissions.

This preparedness is critical for mitigating risks, managing potential crises effectively, and ensuring that the games and other large-scale events can proceed safely and securely. It’s now that our new partnership is fully in line with our commitment to security, safety, and users’ support. This partnership enriches our training offerings by incorporating a unique aerosol simulant into training scenarios, while also enabling users to enhance their training by considering aerosol threats and by making the exercises more realistic.

Gautier MALLET, Marketing Director of Proengin, stated, "As the demand for training realism grows, this latest simulant complements the existing range, enabling comprehensive coverage of all threats. It's essential for training to mirror real-life scenarios as closely as possible, and this advancement marks a significant step towards achieving that goal."

Renaud THETIOT, Sales & Marketing Director of Lacroix stated “The SIMTAC solution has been developed by Lacroix chemical researchers, under its own funds, following years of collaborative work with the Armed Forces. It represents a leap forward in realistic, safe, and efficient training solutions. Developed to be fully compatible with PROENGIN’s detection technology, the only technology capable of detecting aerosol-form threats, SIMTAC enhances training programs, pre-mission detection checks, and enriches PROENGIN Academy’ scenario-based training.”

SIMTAC enables instructors to safely simulate real-world chemical aerosol threats, complementing the existing liquid and solid simulants on the market and enhancing realism without toxic risks. It supports PROENGIN’s detection solutions, thereby ensuring unmatched engagement and learning outcomes. This solution revolutionizes indoor training scenarios. Its non-toxic nature and ease of use make SIMTAC an essential tool for CBRN forces (personal CBRN training, or system integrity check), military units, special forces, and civil security teams, promoting heightened readiness and effectiveness in a safe manner.

Kromek launched its new generation RayMon detector in May. This is a high-performance handheld spectrometer with a set of interchangeable probes: CZT, NaI and Alpha Beta. It is ideal for protecting critical national infrastructure such as nuclear power stations or military installations and for security screening, civil defence, homeland security or peace keeping/peace support operations. It is portable, easy to deploy and can undertake previously-lab-based spectral analysis directly in the field with speed and precision.

The new generation RayMon has a built-in library of 94 radionuclides, to which custom nuclides can be added. Key information such as dose rate and counts per second can be viewed on the Dose Screen in real-time. In Search Mode, the clear visual graphs indicate when count rate is increasing or decreasing, directing the user to the location of the source. All reports and data files on the RayMon can either be exported onto a USB or shared via email.

Enhancing the RayMon’s capabilities are three additional probes: a high resolution CZT probe, a high sensitivity NaI (sodium iodide) smart probe and an Alpha Beta smart probe.

The CZT probe provides precise identification of radionuclides, even when faced with mixed or shielded sources.  With its small form factor, operation at room temperature without the need for cooling, and direct conversion, the CZT Probe is a cost-effective and user-friendly alternative to HPGe detectors. Its small form factor alleviates the difficulty of taking measurements in hard-to-reach areas.

The NaI probe is designed for collecting count data in low-dose environments. The high sensitivity and efficiency of the 2” x 2” Sodium Iodide (NaI) crystal ensures even the weakest sources can be detected. Taking measurements in narrow areas is facilitated by the incorporation of silicon photomultiplier technology into Probe, giving the device its small form factor. The probe also includes a high dose sensor to ensure that measurements continue to be taken when the NaI probe becomes saturated with counts.

The Alpha Beta probe transfers Alpha or Beta count data onto the RayMon screen but can also store detector and calibration information itself. Its small size and lightweight build means the device can be used comfortably in one hand, with the RayMon in the other, for extended amounts of time.

Bruhn NewTech was pleased to announce the formation of a strategic partnership with Adelis Equity Partners, who joined them as new majority shareholder. Their collaboration represents a significant milestone in their journey towards establishing a leading European Defence Technology Group, with the primary objective of enhancing global security and preparedness.

Through Adelis Equity Partners Fund III AB, Adelis Equity will offer strategic support to Bruhn NewTech, propelling them into a next phase of growth and innovation. Their extensive expertise in scaling software companies, particularly within Northern Europe, positions Adelis as the ideal partner to elevate our CBRN knowledge management software.

CEO Erik Juel Ellinghaus and Chairman Kristoffer Basse, will continue to play an active and invested role in the company’s future. They expressed their enthusiasm for the partnership: “Adelis Equity’s remarkable track record in fostering global software growth aligns seamlessly with our vision." 

This collaboration with Adelis marks their inaugural investment in a newly formed defence technology group. This group will comprise leading niche software and technology companies focused on defence. Partnering with Adelis enables them to expand their capabilities and reach.

Blackline Safety Europe announced that its European operations have been independently verified as carbon neutral for all measured emissions during the previous fiscal year. Certification organisation NQA was responsible for the verification against the internationally recognised standard for carbon neutrality, PAS 2060.

“The company began the journey to carbon neutrality across our global business as part of our commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance initiatives, which have been evidenced in our annual ESG report since 2020,” said Lacey Griffin, Blackline Safety’s Quality & Compliance Co-ordinator for UK & Europe.

“Last year, our European business announced the results of our first-ever Carbon Footprint report, commissioned to track both direct and indirect carbon emissions and conducted with carbon consultants Auditel,” Griffin said. “As a result of the report and subsequent emissions reduction plan for each site, we have successfully achieved our goal and verified our status.”

Blackline Safety Europe’s carbon footprint was calculated in line with the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol emission scopes, which include direct emissions from combustion of gas and other fuels, emissions resulting from the generation of electricity and other energy purchased (but generated elsewhere), and emissions made by third parties in connection with operational activities. 
Now, the company’s sights are set on continuing its environmental journey by working towards gaining the new ISO 14068 Climate Change Management Standard