Quiz on Toxic Substances and Biological Pathogens

Toxic Chemicals and Biological Agents

• Anthrax is a toxic chemical that can be utilized as a weapon.
• It is considered the most lethal agent available to a terrorist.
• A mere ounce of biological agent can potentially kill thousands of people.

Biological Pathogens

• Biological pathogens are characterized by their ability to cause disease.
• One possible dispersal mechanism for biological agents is through aerosolization.

Protective Measures

• In the event of a biological agent release, protective measures include wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and decontamination.
• If flu-like symptoms appear after a potential exposure to a biological agent, the recommended action is to seek medical attention immediately.

Radiological Materials

• Radiological materials are characterized by their ability to emit ionizing radiation.
• Radioactive decay is a characteristic of radiological materials.
• It is NOT a characteristic of radiological materials to be contagious.

Radiological Dispersal Device (RDD)

• A Radiological Dispersal Device (RDD) is a characteristic of a device that disperses radioactive material.
• The primary purpose of shielding in protection from radiation is to absorb or block radiation.

Protection from Radiation

• Time, distance, and shielding are the primary methods to protect oneself from radiation exposure.
• The primary purpose of time in protection from radiation is to minimize exposure duration.
• The primary purpose of distance in protection from radiation is to increase the distance from the source of radiation.
• The primary purpose of respiratory protection when dealing with certain emitters is to prevent inhalation of radioactive particles.

Nuclear Devices

• A Nuclear Device is characterized by its ability to release a large amount of energy through nuclear fission or fusion.

Detection and Response

• Department personnel can detect radiation using special equipment such as Geiger counters.
• The primary purpose of decontamination is to remove or neutralize radioactive materials.