ISTC co-sponsored a two-week chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear response train-the-trainer course in Dubai, United Arab Emirates that took place during the first half of November. The UAE Emirates Health Services hosted the course which was also supported by the European Union’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Centers of Excellence’s P82 project. Around 60 doctors, nurses and paramedics from Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates attended one week of theoretical training and one week of practical exercises to prepare them to deliver training courses to colleagues in their home countries and improve overall CBRN emergency medical response in the Gulf region.

P82 is designed to strengthen CBRN emergency medicine preparedness and response in the Gulf region through both theoretical education and practical training and exercises. P82 has been active since 2019.

CBRN materials are essential in manufacturing, healthcare and energy; but they also pose significant risks if not managed properly. The possibility of CBRN exposure during emergencies makes reinforcing regional CBRN emergency medicine response capabilities vital for public health. This P82 train-the-trainer course takes a comprehensive approach that transfers knowledge and skills to enable delegates to become trainers in their own countries. It is accredited by Gulf medical authorities for 30 hours of Continuing Professional Development.