ML20203P915
| ML20203P915 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Site: | Limerick  |
| Issue date: | 01/24/1985 |
| From: | Federal Emergency Management Agency |
| To: | |
| References | |
| OL-I-FEMA-E-005, OL-I-FEMA-E-5, NUDOCS 8605080331 | |
| Download: ML20203P915 (47) | |
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JURISDICTIONS: Risk Municipalities as noted in Exercise Sumary Support County of Bucks NON-PARTICIPATING:
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Page(s)
Exercise Summary
11 Background
111 Participating Jurisdictions IV Non-Participating Jurisdictions IV Observer Assignments V
Evaluation Criteria Used VI Exercise Objectives VII Scenario Time Line VIII Exercise Reports 1-29 3
Summary List of Deficiencies 30-37 i
SIM4ARY The supplemental exercise held on November 20, 1984, involved the participation of municipalities within Montgomery, Chester, and Berks i
Counties and the support County of Bucks which did not participate in the initial full participation exercise held on July 25, 1984. Several muncipalities who did play during the intital exercise elected to t
participate again and decided improvements in response capabilities were 1
observed.
South Coventry Township elected not to participate in either the initial full-participation exercise or the supplemental exercise, therefore; no capability to protect their citizens in the event of an accident at the Limerick Generating Station was demonstrated.
The participating EOC staffs displayed a serous committment to and involvement with emergency responses activities.
For this exercise 24-hour staffing capabilities were demonstrated in all EOCs except Union Township, Berks County and Warwick Township, Chester County. The Emergency Management Coordinators in these two municipalities are trying to recruit additional personnel for a second shift. Municipal plans should be updated to show the manning demonstrated in the exercise.
As was the case in July 25, 1984, potassium iodide, low-range, sel f-reading dosimeters and thermoluminescent dosimeters were not available for local E0C personnel and emargency workers. In addition some jurisdictions need additional training in radiological exposure control.
c This equipment should be procured and training scheduled for appropriate personnel as soon as possible.
Many of the EOC staff went beyond those activities called for in the scenario by actually manning traffic control points, performing route alerting and actually calling all handicapped people and those residents needing transportation. The complete report for each location is contained later in this report and will address deficiencies / recommendations applicable to that specific location.
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BACKGROUND Federal requirements dictate that Radiological Emergency Response Preparedness exercises be conducted in support of nuclear power plants to l
evaluate major portions of emergency response capabilities. The exercises test the integrated capability and a major portion of the basic elements existing within emergency preparedness plans and organizations. The exercises simulate a coordinated response by state and local authorities, along with the utility, to include mobilization of personnel and resources adequate to verify the capability to deal with an accident scenario requiring responses up to, and including, evacuation. On July 25, 1984 the initial full scale exercise was held for the Limerick Generating Station and various off site organizations.
During the initial exercise some of the off site jurisdictions did not participate; which resulted in the necessity to conduct a supplemental exercise to evaluate those jurisdictions not participating in the exercise on July 25, 1985.
j This Supplemental Report will record the capabilities of local governments to respond to an accident at the Limerick Generating Station based upon actual demonstration or simulation of their abilities during the November 20, 1984, supplemental exercise.
The exercise was observed by a team of individuals from FEMA Region III and the American Red Cross.
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111
.w PARTICIPATING JURISDICTIONS Plume EPZ Jurisdictions Douglass Township, Montgomery County i
Green Lane Borough /Marlborough Township, Mongtomery County Lower Providence Township, Montgomery County Lower Salford Township, Montgomery County Schwenskville Borough, Montgomery County Skippack Township, Montgomery County West Pottsgrove Township, Montgomery County Warwick Township, Chester County Amity Township, Berks County Union Township, Berks County Support County Bucks County-Reception and Mass Care NON-PARTICIPATING JURISDICTIONS South Coventry Township, Chester County m
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LIST OF DBSERVER ASSIGNMENTS i
RAC Chairman James Asher i
Montgomery County Douglass Township EOC Steve Hopkins Green Lane Borough /Marlborough Township EOC Fred Schmauk Lower Providence Township EOC Rick Kinard Lower Sal ford Township EOC Karen Larson Schwenksville Borough EOC Dale Petranech 1
Skippack Township EOC Janet Lamb West Pottsgrove Township EOC Joe Gavin
. Chester County Warwick Township EOC Bill Curtis Berks County Amity Township EOC Steve Adukaitis Union Township EOC Joe McCarey
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Bucks County Reception / Mass Care Dale Petranech Communications Joe Zagone Mike St. Angelo V
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EVALUATION CRITERIA USED The local governments' response capabilities during this supplemental exercise were evaluated in relationship to the draft Radiological Emergency i
Response Plans for each municipality. These plans were developed in
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accordance with NUREG 0654/ FEMA Rev.1, " Criteria for Preparation and Evaluation of Radiological Emergency Response Plans and Preparedness in Support of Nuclear Power Plants," November 1980.
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VI
r OBJECTIVES OF THE EXERCISE 1.
Demonstrate the capability of county and municipal emergency service agencies, volunteer agencies and support services to respond in a timely manner and in accordance with RERP plans to an incident at a fixed nuclear facility.
2.
Provide timely notification to elected officials, appointed officials, volunteers, Emergency Operations Center staff and emergency workers.
3.
Demonstrate the capability to initiate pubite alert / notification and information.
4.
Demonstrate effective and timely communications, both external and internal.
5.
Exercise the capability of state, county and municipal emergency response personnel to implement the issuance of dosimetry and/or KI and the record keeping and decontamination procedures.
1 6.
Demonstrate the adequacy of the Dnergency Operations Centers with respect to security, space, comfort, staffing and function for managing responses to nuclear facility incidents.
7.
Display the knowledge of plans and standard operating procedures as they relate to state, risk and support counties and municipal emergency response plans.
8.
Demonstrate the capability to implement sheltering or evacuation and i
take actions to activate support functions.
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VII
SCERARIO Unit 1 at the Limerick Generating Station is operating at 80% of rated power.
One condensate pump is out of service for repairs. All other power generation and safety system equipment are operational. Meteorological data are representative of unstable conditions.
The average wind velocity is 8 miles per hour from the southwest.
The current temperature is 56 degrees with a cold front approaching from the northwest. At 1800 an alert is declared at the facility because of a scram with a small leak. Site Area Emergency is declared at 1900 because of scram with a loss of coolant.
At 1945 due to an unexpected release of highly radioactive gases the facility recommends sheltering immediately.
Due to pressure increase, within the reactor the facility declares a General Emergency at 2015.
Reactor water level is decreasing and high radiation readings in the containment building indicate fuel damage.
De-escalation of the General Emergency to an Alert status occurs at 2045.
Chronology of Events Projected Actual Time Time 1800 Alert 1800 1900 Site Area Emergency 1900 1945 Sheltering Recommended 1955 2015 General Emergency 2015 2045 De-Escalation to Alert 2043 2100 Termination 2055 w*
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EXERCISE REPORTS Douglass Township E0C, Montgomery County I.
Activation and Staffing Activation and staffing of the EOC occurred according to plan and without problem. The call initiating action, the Alert notification, I
was received at the E0C from Montgomery County at 1809.
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Verification, if it occurred, was not observed. The township Emergency Management Coordinator (EMC) was present at the E0C at the time, and took the call.
Staff mobilization procedures were adequately demonstrated. The EMC used an up-to-date, written call list to notify the staff.
Full staffing, for one shift, was completed by about 1830.
The staff positions included the EMC, Fire Services Officer, Police Services Officer, Medical Services Officer, and Public Works Officer.
One township supervisor was present, and two RACES operators arrived later, during the Alert stage.
All positions were eventually double-staffed (the Deputy EMC was the last to arrive, at about 2030), demonstrating two-shift capability for round-the-clock operations. The staff, in general, displayed adequate training and knowledge.
II.
Emergency Operations Management The EMC, as designated in the plan, was in charge of the Township's emergency response operation.
Periodic staff briefings were not held, but were not necessary due to the small staff size and relatively low level of action generated by the scenario.
Sta ff members were involved in decision-making regarding their own responsibilities, and plans and SOPS were available and referenced.
Message logs were kept, and a status board was maintained with the emergency classification levels posted.
EOC security was very good, with access controlled by the Township police.
The EOC received notification of the major events as follows: Plant at Alert status at 1803; plant at Site Area Emergency at 1903; plant at General Emergency Status at 2020; "take shelter directive at 1955.
The capability to take appropriate emergency response action was demonstrated, but such actions were, for the most part, simulated.
n As noted previously, one elected official, the Chairman of the Board.
of Supervisors, was present during the exercise.
III Facilities s s
The Township is presently in the process of building a new EOC within the Gilbertsville Fire Station (the former E0C was located in the 1
township municipal building). Construction and outfitting of this facility was not yet complete, but it was adequate for conduct of the exercise.
The new EOC provides sufficient space and lighting, and two telephones were installed the afternoon of the exercise.
Additional telephones were located elsewhere in the fire station, as were kitchen facilities and back-up power capability. Other communications equipment, including a roof-mounted antenna for RACES, had not yet been installed. Maps of the county and township were available, but there were no maps depicting the ten-mile EPZ, evacuation routes, traffic control points, or reception centers.
It is recommended that this facility be completed as quickly as possible, including the installation of all furnishings and communications equipment, and the posting of appropriate maps.
IV Communications The communications operation for Douglass Township is presently adequate, and when present renovations to the E0C are completed should be excellent. The primary pre-alert stage means of communication is the telephone. The primary post-alert stage means of communication is the RACES / ARES network, backed up by two touch tone lines and telephones. An additional two touch tone lines and telephones are on order and will be installed shortly.
In addition, the communicators have access to the Township Fire Radio Net and the Township Police Radio Net. They also have a scanner. They are in radio contact with the Ambulance Service. They presently use a
" rubber-duck" antenna for the RACES radio. Vehicle installation kits (which are powered through the vehicle batteries) are used for backup power. They have an external antenna on hand, and are planning to install it permanently in the near future.
The Township SOPS were on hand and the communicators appeared to be following them. There were adequate personnel for 24-hour operations.
The only drawback to the operation was the high noise level in the EOC, but this should be rectified when the renovations are complete.
V.
Dose Assessment and Protective Action Recommendations l
l Not appicable.
VI.
Public Alerting and Instruction t
Township officials demonstrated their capability to perform their designated role in the public alerting process.
In accordance with the plan, the EMC had a list identifying township institutions, including schools, churches, and commercial establishments, which are to be notified at the Alert stage. The EMC simulated performing such notification at that time.
I Responsibility for activating the primary alert and notification system, the sirens and EBS, resides with the county; the township is 2
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responsible for implementing route alerting in the event of siren failures, and to notify the hearing-impaired. The county informed the township E0C staff at 1955 that activation of the sirens and EBS would be simulated, beginning at 2000. They also advised that route alerting was not to be performed. The township officials, however; described their route alerting procedures, and simulated dispatching route alert teams to notify the 21 hearing-impaired residents which have been identified. This was done following activation of the sirens, as specified in the plans.
1 The preparation and distribution of emergency instructions for the y
public are responsibilities of the State and county.
VII.
Protective Action As the protective action recommendation was for sheltering in place, the exercise did not provide the opportunity for the township to implement evacuation, establish traffic control, and provide transportation. However, these matters were discussed with township officials, and they provided lists containing the names and addresses of residents requiring ambulances or other forms of special assistance for evacuation. Township officials also reported that they had sufficient resources to man the five traffic control points designated in the plan.
VIII.
Radiological Exposure Control No dosimetry or KI, real or simulated, was available at the EOC.
Officials partially demonstrated the procedures for distributing dosimetry and KI to EOC personnel at the Site Area Emergency phase, including the filling out of receipt forms. However, instructions were not provided, and this activity did not provide sufficient evidence that the township emergency personnel are adequately familiar with the procedures for the use of dosimetry and KI. An appropriate quantity of high and low-range self-reading dosimeters, thermoluminescent dosimeters, and KI tablets should be obtained and pre-distributed to the township, and the emergency personnel should demonstrate their familiarity regarding the use of these items in future exercises.
IX. Media Relations This is a responsibility of the County.
X.
Recovery and Reentry This was not an exercise objective.
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Douglass Township Deficiencies / Recommendations 1.
The township EOC is presently under construction. This facility should be completed as quickly as possible, the necessary furnishings 3
and communications equipment should be instelled, and appropriate maps posted.
2.
Dosimetry and KI were not available, the capability of the township emergency personnel to implement effective radiological exposure control was not demonstrated. Adequate supplies of high and low-range self-reading dosimeters, thermoluminescent dosimeters, and KI should be obtained, and the emergency response staff should
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demonstrate their familiarity with the proper use of these items in
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future exercises.
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Greenlane Borough and Marlborough Township EOC I.
Activation and Staffing An initial telephone notification was received by the Emergency Management Coordinator from the Montgomery County E0C at 1811 at his home. A call was also received on the Fire Radio at the Municipal E0C (Township Municipal Building) at 1809. Verification was made from the municipal EOC. The Deputy EMC was present at the EOC at least one hour prior to the Alert which was 1811. The Borough / Township emergency staff continued to arrive and staffing was complete at 1843. Staff members were mobilized according to written procedures. Total staff numbered twelve persons, representing: the Borough Mayor, Borough Council President, Borough Council. Borough Ambulance, Radiological, Transportation (Med/Amb), Communications.
Another eight persons were staffed at the Borough Fire Hall. Those persons represented the Fire Police, Firemen and the Community Ambulance Service.
The Borough Mayor acted as the liaison, operating between the E0C and the Borough Fire Hall. The staff displayed a thorough knowledge of their responsibilities. Round-the-clock staffing capability was not demonstrated as this exercise was only three hours in duration. The short duration of the exercise also eliminated the necessity for a shift change.
II.
Emergency Operations Management The Deputy EMC demonstrated capable leadership of the Borough / Township emergency functions until the EMC arrived at the i
E0C.
He then took the " assistant" role to the EMC. The EMC periodically consulted with his staff and discussed the current situation.
Incoming messages were handled very efficiently. ~ They were logged in and posted on the status board.
The Deputy EMC was in i
charge of security and controlled the access of persons to the E0C.
i The E0C was notified of the Alert status at 1811, the Site Area Emergency status at 1903, and the General Emergency status at 2018 by the county. Action was taken to coordinate emergency activities of the police, fire police, firemen and the Community Ambulance Service at 1820. There were four elected officials (the mayor, president of council and two council members) from the Borough and one elected official from the Township (a supervisor) that demonstrated effective 4
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coordination and decision-making during the emergency activities.
III.
Facilities The EOC, established in the all purpose room of the Township Building, was fully adequate for the purpose. There was sufficient space, furnishings, lighting and telephones.
The room was such a i
size that it would support an increase in staff for an extended 1
time.
There was an adequately sized status board that was kept up to date with significant events.
The plume EPZ, with sectors labeled was posted.
Evacuation routes, relocation centers, access control points, radiological monitoring points and population by evacuation area were not posted but were available. The population of the Borough which is in the plume EPZ is 287.
The EOC has a travelling dosimetry team.
IV. Communications The communications capabilities were good. The EOC was equipped with two standard telephone lines, two private " red" phones and two walkie talkies that were used in conjunction with the county fire net. The backup to the primary communications system was the RACES net with two operators.
V.
Dose Assessment and Protective Action Recommendation Not applicable.
VI.
Public Alerting and Instruction The Fire Police and Firemen, located in the Borough Fire Hall, performed route alerting throughout the community. A call from the County E0C initiated the process of public alerting.
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VII.
Protective Action Activation of traffic control points was not applicable in this exercise since protective actions called for sheltering. All the roads having access to the contaminated area were blocked by the State Police and not by the Borough or Township. The EOC had a list of mobility-impaired individuals. However, after contacting these people, they found that there now is only one non-ambulatory resident in the township and none in the borough. The RER plans indicated that there were 25 residents in the borough and 15 residents in the township who require transportation assistance in the event of an evacuation.
However, after going through their written records and placing calls, the E0C staff found that presently there are no persons in the borough or township requiring this service.
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VIII. Radiological Exposure Control The dosimetry equipment and the instructions for same is handled by the county and not the borough or township.
However. EOC personnel have received training and are aware of proper procedures concerning its use, the maximum dose allowed without authorization and decontamination procedures. The only measures taken to protect the EOC personnel against exposure was not using the ventilation system.
i IX. Media Relations This is a responsibility of the County.
l X.
Recovery and Reentry This was not an exercise objective.
Lower Providence Township EOC, Montgomery County I.
Activation and Staffing The township received a call from the County communications center at 1812 informing them of the Alert status at Limerick. The call was verified and activation of the staff would normally take place at this point in time. However, because of the limited time period of the drill, the staff was prepositioned in the E0C prior to the Alert.
A written call list was available with the home and business numbers of all staff. This list would be utilized by the township police to notify the staff at any hour of the day or night.
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Positions represented at the E0C included the Emergency Management Coordinator, Police, Fire, Medical / Rescue, Transportation RACES and a Radiological Officer.
In addition, a group of approximately 35 volunteer firefighters/ citizen volunteers was also on hand at a local firehouse. The staff displayed adequate training and knowledge, and tried throughout the exercise to anticipate problems before they occurred. A roster was presented to the observer which designated two people to each E0C staff position.
II.
Emergency Operations Management u
The Emergency Management Coordinator, as designated in the township's RERP was effectively in charge of operations.
Periodic briefings were held and the staff was involved, when appropriate, in decision-making. Copies of the plan were available and checklists for the various positions were also on hand and were consulted when necessary. The logging of messages was sporadic t:ntil well into the execise when the EMC and other staff members recognized the need for an efficient message handling system, including the logging of all messages (both RACES and telephone), routing through the EMC and 6
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distribution to the appropriate staff member.
Access to the EOC was controlled through the use of a sign-in sheet and a locked door.
The township received the Site Emergency declaration at approximately 1905, were informed they should shelter at about 1955 and received the General Emergency message at about 2020. The police, fire and
.8 ambulance organizations were updated throughout the exercise on the j
status of the emergency and what actions they should take.
Elected officials were not present or involved in exercise play.
III.
Facilities Sufficient furniture, space, lighting and telephones are available for an emergency response. More of an effort should be made to control noise as three different radio networks were being broadcast into the EOC at various times. A status board was clearly visible and was kept up-to-date on significant events throughout the exercise. Maps were available with such information as the plume EPZ, evacuation routes, traffic control points and sectors for the route alert teams.
I IV. Communications Lower Providence Township had three methods of communication c
throughout the simulated emergency.
They included commercial telephone, RACES, and the police / fire / emergency medical services radio net.
All three networks were used during the exercise, functioning in an efficient manner, and giving the township rapid c
communications with all appropriate jurisdictions. The township staff gave some indication that RACES would be located in a room adjacent to the E0C in an actual event. This idea should be acted on in order to cut down on the noise in the EOC.
V.
Dose Assessment and Protective Action Recommendation Not applicable.
VI.
Public Alerting and Instruction At approximately 1955, Lower Providence Township received a telephone call from the Montgomery County E0C informing them that sheltering should be initiated at 2000 and that the siren system and EBS would be activated (simulated) at that point. A radio was available in the j
E0C to monitor the designated EBS station (KYW-AM). Because of the somewhat limited nature of the exercise, the township did not actually send any route alerting teams out. They are instructed, j
however; to inform residents to tune to their EBS station.
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VII.
Protective Actions The twelve traffic control points identified in the township RERP were activated in a prompt manner. Traffic volume was discussed as were such issues as dealing with bad weather and stalled or wrecked cars during an evacuation.
Adequate resources exist to handle the traffic control responsibilities.
The township has a comprehensive list of various residents with special needs or concerns. The list includes those who are hearing-impaired, need transportation, require an ambulance or need special assistance. Simulated arrangements were made to deal with these people. The lists contain information as to the location of the individuals and any special needs they might have.
VIII. Radiological Exposure Control At the present, the township only has a supply of high-range, self-reading dosimeters, chargers and record keeping cards.
Neither low-range dosimeters, TLDs, or KI currently exist for emergency workers.
The supply of radiation monitoring equipment is stored at the Montgomery County E0C, located only a couple miles from the Lower Providence Township EOC. Adequate instructions exist concerning the proper use of dosimetry /KI. The Radiological Officer is aware of the maximum dose allowable without authorization and the procedures for decontamination.
IX. Media Relations This is a responsibility of the County.
X.
Recovery and Reentry This was not an exercise objective.
t XI. Scenario Based upon the limited objectives established for this exercise, Lower Providence Township displayed an ability to respond to an accident at Limerick. Although the staff participated in a most professional manner, it is felt that they would benefit from a more challenging scenario in the future, involving the actual display of various responsibilities.
Lower Providence Township Deficiencies / Recommendations 1.
At times the noise in the E0C made it difficult to be heard.
Consideration should be given to locating other functions, such as RACES outside the main operations room.
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2.
Message handling was haphazard. An organized system, such as was discussed by the staff during the exercise should be implemented.
3.
Elected officials should take a more active role in future exercises.
4.
An attempt should be made to schedule a more involved exercise prior to the next scheduled full participation exercise in 1986.
Lower Salford Township EOC, Montgomery County I.
Activation and Staffing
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A telephone call from Montgomery County to the Dnergency Management Coordinator's home at 1823, notifying the EMC of an Alert at the Limerick Generating Station acted to initiate activation of the Lower Salford Township E0C.
The EMC arrived at the E0C at 1823, and immediately began staff mobilization procedures, hooking up telephones, and posting the status board. Mobilization procedures were well organized and quickly accomplished. Staffing included the Emergency Management Coordinator (EMC) Deputy EMC, Police, Fire / Rescue, Transportation / Medical, Communications Coordinator, and one RACES operator; all staff were present at 1903. With the exception of the RACES operator, all positions were douMa staffed in order to demonstrate 24-hour manning capability.
Staff representatives were in general knowledgeable with regard to their individual areas of responsibility, however; specific training concerning the use of dosimetry, KI, and emergency worker protective actions in genersi is needed.
II.
Emergency Operation: Management Emergency operations i anagement was directed by the EMC, in accordance with the toenship RERP. A deputy EMC, though not included in the plan, was very instrumental in the overall operations management, briefing t ie staff, coordinating unmet needs, etc.
Written check-lists or "information procedures" were available for each of the EOC positions and proved to be effective in coordinating the completion of emergency response tasks. Message logs were kept by each of the staff representatives.
Access to the E0C was controlled by way of locked entry to the' operations room, and sign-in and out procedures.
The EMC reported that he was notified of the Alert classification at 1823 by way of a call to his home from the county. Site Area
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Emergency was received over commercial telephone line at 1908. At
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1958 a RACES message, transmitted at 1947, was logged and the staff briefed regarding the Governor's proclamation of a disaster emergency, and although the message included the advisory that this did not correspond with on-site emergency classifications, the status 9
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board was updated to indicate: " Site at General Emergency-no evacuation." The EOC was notified at 2003 that the plant was at General Emergency, sheltering was recommended, and sirens and EBS were simulated at 2000. At 2013 a RACES message, aired at 1955, was read to the staff, which indicated siren and EBS simulation at 2000, and that sheltering was recommended. At 2021, a RACES message transmitted information regarding a 2015 declaration of General Emergency, and that " protective actions remain continue sheltering."
At 2049, a RACES communication deescalated response operations to Alert Status at 2043.
A Township Supervisor arrived at 1906 and was briefed by the EMC concerning EOC activities, but was not involved in response operations.
III.
Facilities The Lower Salford Township EOC was amply provided with furniture, space, and lighting to support response operations. The use of the two existing commercial telephone lines proved cumbersone in meeting the communications needs of all the staff.
A third line is reportedly in the process of being connected; the installation of this third line should act to facilitate EOC communications capabilities.
A status board was clearly visible and was up-dated to indicate i
changes in classification levels. Additional training should be provided to the individual responsible for updating the board with regard to emergency classification levels versus the Governor's proclamation of a disaster emergency. Maps were posted in the E0C which indicated the areas of the township affected by the plume EPZ, evacuation routes, and access / traffic control points.
Information regarding the area population and relocation centers was available but not posted.
IV. Communications The primary means of communication with the county EOC is via two existing commercial landlines. RACES was used as a back-up means of information gathering at the township E0C.
Portable hand-held radios were on hand which tied into the township fire department.
Permanent installation of the RACES antenna is reportedly scheduled for the near future.
V.
Dose Assessment and Protective Action Recommendation Not applicable.
VI.
Public Alerting and Instruction Route Alerting was not demonstrated during this exercise, although calls were placed to put route alert teams on standby. The area of the township which is located within the 10-mile EPZ has been divided into two sections. According to the EMC, the maximum time required 10 t
to complete route alerting for the larger of the areas is fifteen minutes.
Notification of siren and EBS activation (simulated) at 2000 was not received at the EOC until 2003. More advanced notification of siren and EBS activation would act to coordinate emergency response activities. A RACES message on siren and EBS activation, sent out at 1955, was _not given to the EMC until 2013. Critical messages of this nature should be passed immediately to the EMC.
The EMC should I
clarify this with the RACES operator.
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VII.
Protective Action Three traffic control points were directed to be set up at 2004, following notification of General Emergency and recommended protective actions. These traffic control points were reported as being manned at 2022. The EMC queried police and the Transportation Coordinator with regard to possible road blocks. A listing of available equipment from Public Works is not currently available at i
the EOC, but is reportedly under development.
Lists of persons requiring transportation assistance, special medical requirements and the hearing-impaired were used to actually contact these individuals to certify the continuing need for this assistance. Of the three listed hearing-impaired individuals, one was determined to be residing outside of the 10-mile EPZ, and the other two residents were reportedly not at home when visited by police representatives. As indicated by the EMC, all activities concerning ingestion pathway protective actions would be coordinated by the Department of Environmental Resources and the Department of 4
Agriculture.
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VIII. Radiological Exposure Control No dosimetry equipment was available at the Lower Salford Township EOC.
Dosimetry requirements for police (16), ambulance (5), and l
fire / police emergency workers (3) were verbally reported to the Deputy EMC and relayed to the county as an unmet need. Simulated TLDs, pocket dosimeters, chargers and record keeping forms werc signed out to a fire / police representative for simulated distribution to emergency workers. No detailed instruction was provided with regard to the use of the equipment. Although by plan the Fire Services Officer is responsible for the distribution' of dosimeters and KI to emergency workers, and also for the training of EOC personnel and emergency workers in the use of this equipment, l
representatives at the EOC were not versed in the proper use of the i
equipment, record keeping forms, or KI.
It is recommended that this equipment h provided in future exercises so that all personnel may f
s become acquainted with its use, and that detailed training be provided to all emergency workers.
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IX. Media Relations This is a responsibility of the county.
X. - Recovery and Reentry This was not an exercise objective.
XI. Scenario Although the scenario called for the simulation of many activities l
within the course of this exercise, the EOC staff extended their involvement to provide actual completion of many activities, i.e.,
manning of traffic control points, convening route alert teams to a standby status, attempting to contact all persons requiring special assistance, and the distribution of simulated dosimetry equipment.
All staff persons demonstrated a serious involvement and dedication to the exercise play, and were encouraged to openly address perceived imperfections in the emergency response organization.
Future exercises; however, should demonstrate route alerting capabilities and distribution of actual dosimetry equipnent.
Lower Salford Township EOC Deficiencies / Recommendations 1.
Training should be provided to all EOC staff and emergency workers in the proper use and handling of dosimetry equipment and KI, and with regard to emergency classification levels.
Distribution of this equipment should be demonstrated in future exercises.
2.
The township should complete existing plans for the installation of a third commercial telephone line and permanent installation of the RACES antenna.
3.
A listing of available public works equipment resources should be developed and maintained by the township.
4.
Future exercises should demonstrate route alerting activities.
5.
The county sent a message out over RACES at 1955 advising them that the sirens would be activated at 2000.
However, this message never got to the EMC at Lower Salford Township until 2013. The E0C was notified at 2003 that the sirens and EBS would be ac'tivated at 2000.
The RACES operator should give critical messages to the EMC immediately. The EMC should clarify this with the RACES operator.
In addition, the county should insure that all municipalities are notified prior to activation of alert and notification systems.
12
4 Schwenksville Borough EOC, Montgomery County i
I.
Activation and Staffing A call from the county informed borough officials of an Alert at Limerick at 1801.
The Alert notification was verified and the call down of emergency personnel began at that time. The borough plan had j
no checklist for actions to be taken during the various emergency classification levels. This resulted in one person not arriving at the EOC until 1923, 13 minutes after Site Emergency was declared.
m The EOC was moved into a room in the borough fire house. Ample space was available for the borough government, volunteer fire officials, RACES, and the borough police.
A roster for a second shift is available if 24-hour coverage is needed.
II.
Emergency Operations Management The Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator was effectively in charge of the exercise. The EMC did make an appearance but was ill.
The deputy EMC briefed the staff on all message traffic. The borough was notified of Alert at 1801, Site Area Emergency at 1908, take shelter at 2003, General Emergency at 2018 and deescalation to Alert at 2052.
The Governor's message that enabled the State to release funds was clear and easy to understand.
It was written in a way so as not to confuse it with the General Emergency declaration. The message notifying the borough of activation of the alert and notification system (sirens and EBS) was not received until 2003, three minutes after they had been activated at 2000.
e The deputy EMC placed a call to the county requesting assistance in manning traffic control points and transportation for the handica pped. The borough mayor was present throughout the exercise.
III.
Facilities The E0C had sufficient equipment to respond to an emergency. A status board was kept current on significant events. Displays of maps, charts indicating evacuation routes and population figures were available.
IV. Communications Radio, backup telephones, and RACES equipment provided excellent communications. Radio communications with police, fire trucks (used for route alerting), and local ambulance services were available.
h V.
Dose Assessment and Protective Action Recommendation Not applicable.
13
VI.
Public Alerting and Instruction The borough plans to supplement the siren system with route alerting. Tests during a previous exercise indicated that the route alerting takes 40 minutes to complete. The activation of the alert and notification systems was simulated during this exercise.
VII. Protective Actions The borough requested county assistance in manning traffic control peints. These actions were simuilated during the exercise. The borough had a list of physically impaired individuals and plans for notifying the hearing-impaired residents. The plan was activated but actual notification and pickup of residents was simulated. The borough staff expressed concern over the need for tran3portation of E0C staff members' dependents.
VIII. Radiological Exposure Control The issuing of dosimetry was simulated. These materials are not available. Appropriate instructions were issued on dosimeters and record keeping.
IX. Media Relations This function is a county responsibility.
s X.
Recovery and Reentry This was not an exercise objective.
XI.
Scenario Based on the limited requirements of the scenario, the borough responded in an adequate manner.
Future exercise scenarios should inclade more extensive play at the municipal level.
1 l
Schwenksville Borough Deficiencies / Recommendations l
1.
The RER Plan should include a checklist (guidelines) for actions to be taken during each emergency classification level.
2.
The county notified Schwenksville Borough E0C of activation of the i
alert and notification system at 2003, after it had already been activated. Sufficient time should be allotteo so the county can alert the borough before the system is activated.
3.
The borough and county should discuss the matter of transportation for borough EOC staff's dependents.
14
Skippack Township EOC, Montgomery County I.
Activation and Staffing i
At 1820, the Emergency Management Coordinator received a call from Montgomery County EOC advising him of an Alert at the Limerick Generating Station.
He called the Township Building and informed them that he was on his way. He arrived within a few minutes and initiated staff mobilization procedures. Written call lists were used and were up-to-date. After calling staff members, the EMC set up the Township Building as the EOC. Staffing of the EOC was complete at 1843.
E0C staff consisted of Township Supervisors, Emergency Management Coordinator Fire Services Officer, Township Special Police. Transportation Officer and Public Works Officer. The staff in general displayed adequate training and knowledge to respond to an emergency in the township.
Round-the-clock staffing
. capabilities were demonstrated by presentation of a roster and double staffing.
II.
Emergency Operations Management The Emergency Management Coordinator, who is designated in the plan, was effectively in charge of the township emergency response.
He briefed the township supervisors continuously on the status of the incident. The appropriate RER plans, implementing procedures, and checklists were available and utilized throughout the exercise.
Message logs were kept and messages distributed as appropriate.
It was suggested that the EMC try to recruit a person to act as the message clerk on the response team in order to relieve him of that duty. Access to the EOC was controlled. The EOC was notified of Alert at 1820, Site Area Emergency at 1905 and General Emergency at 2018.
Protective Action decisions to take shelter were received at 1955. The township supervisors were present and actively involved throughout the exercise.
III.
Facilities The facilities in Skippack Township EOC are more than adequate.
Sufficient furniture, lights and telephones are available. A backup power generator is available.
Emergency classification levels were posted on a status board visible to all staff members.
It was updated as the situation changed.
Maps of the EPZ, township, township evacuation routes and route alert sectors were available.
IV. Communications The primary means of communications with the county is the commercial tel ephone.
Four lines are available, two in the emergency operations area and two in adjoining offices. The RACES system was used extensively both by the county and the township as a backup system.
15
The fire net is also available as an additional backup communications system and to provide communications with field emergency workers.
Communications within the township are quite good.
V.
Dose Assessment and Protective Action Recommendations Not applicable.
VI.
Public Alerting and Instruction At 1955, the township was notified that the sirens would be sounded at 2000 (simulated) and EBS activated (simulated) as well.
Lists of hearing-impaired were giver, to alerting teams at 1910. The teams were sent to notify hearing-impaired residents at 2000 in conjunction with alert and notification system activation. At 2015, a siren failure was simulated in sector A and a route tiert crew was dispatched to that sector to perform route alerting.
It should be noted that the fire department, who is responsible for performing route alerting functions, will participate in the response only up to the point that a general emergency is declared.
At that i
point in the exercise, the fire department withdrew from the exercise. The EMC requested assistance from the county at Site Area Emergency. He informed the county that the fire department would withdraw should the emergency escalate to a General Emergency. The e
county provided the EMC with assistance from a neighboring fire company.
VII.
Protective Action Since the protective actions recommended were for sheltering, the actual manning of traffic and access control points was not demonstrated. However, all emergency workers involved were briefed and on standby if the situation warranted.
Discussion on increased volumes of traffic in the area took place between staff members.
3 Equipment and vehicles to keep evacuation routes clear is available within the municipality through the Public Works Officer.
There are eight residents in the township who require evacuation assistance.
Each of these individuals was contacted by telephone and ambulances were placed on standby in the event of an evacuation. The special requirements for these residents were in written form and are on file in the EOC. The transportation officer briefed the ambulance personnel on the special requirements of each individual.
The township also has a list of 108 persons who do not have transportation. Calls were placed by the Transportation Officer to g
each resident to ascertain if they still required transportation.
In some cases they did not.
The Transportation Officer updated the lists and requested two buses from the county E0C in case an evacuation was necessary.
He should be commended for an outstanding performance during this exercise.
16
VIII. Radiological Exposure Control No dosimetry, charging equipment or KI was available at the township E0C.
However, two staff members were trained in the use of the equipment and the procedures for taking KI. A list of the township's radiological exposure control equipment needs is maintained in the EOC.
The forms necessary for recording dosimeter readings were available. Briefings to emergency workers were simulated. All staff members were aware of when and where to go for decontamination. The EMC stated that once dosimetry and KI are obtained, it would be prepositioned in the township EOC.
IX. Media Relations This is not a township responsibility.
X.
Recovery and Reentry This was not an exercise objective.
XI.
Scenar M The limited play called for in the scenario prevented the township from fully demonstrating evacuation procedures. The scenario for the next full participation exercise should address those areas not covered in this exercise.
Skippack Township EOC Deficiency / Recommendation 1.
The recruitment of a message clerk would relieve the EMC of the duties of logging all messag?s, updating the status boards and distributing the messages to the proper action officer.
West Pottsgrove Township EOC, Montgomery County I.
Activation and Staffing The Emergency Management Coordinator was prepositioned at the Township EOC at the beginning of the exercise.
Upon receiving notice of an Alert declaration at Limerick from the county E0C via telephone at 1807, the EMC initiated activation of the EOC. Using a written call list contained in his SOP, the EMC c6ntacted the Fire Services, Police, and Transportation Coordinators and the Township Commissioners. A policeman provided controlled access to the EOC. A RACES operator was assigned to the Township, apparently by the county.
Full staffing was complete by 1830.
Township police radio j
and the county fire radio net provide a 24-hour per day system for contacting the EMC or hie alternate in the event of an emergency at Limerick.
17
The staff displayed adequate training and knowledge.
Round-the-clock staffing capability was demonstrated by presentation of a roster.
II.
Emergency Operations Management The Township Coordinator, as designated in the plan, was effectively in charge.
Periodic briefings were held to update staff on the i
situation.
Copies of the plan and SOPS were available for reference and were consulted by the staff. A message log was kept by the coordinator. Because of the small number of messages, the coordinator was able to keep the log without interferring with his other duties. There 13 however, a potential for the EMC to be over-extended if the volume of messages were greater. Message handling was sufficiently efficient.
The E0C was notified of the Alert status at the plant at 1807, of Site Area Emergency at 1906 and of General Emergency at 2020.
A take shelter order was received at 1955.
Several township commissioners were present throughout the exercise.
i III.
Facilities The EOC is an adequate facility in terms of furniture, space, lighting, telephones and layout. A backup power generator is available.
A status board was kept up-to-date on significant events including the current emergency classification level. Maps showing the plume EPZ, evacuation routes, and traffic and access control points were posted.
IV. Communications The communications operation was adequately equipped and had sufficient personnel for 24-hour operations. The primary communications means during the pre-alert stage was the telephone.
The post-alert stage primary communications means was the RACES / ARES i
l network. Backup communications was provided through two touch tone lines and telephones. A spare telephone instrument was available.
An additional backup capability was through the township fire / police radio. Backup power was available from a 4KW " green box" generator.
The RACES radios could also be vehicle mounted and run off the vehicle battery. A permanently mounted outside antenna was not installed, although it was on hand. The RACES radios were using a rubber-duck antenna. The primary communicators appeared to be following the township SOP, but there were occasions when the radio operator had to leave the radio to deliver a message.
l Y.
Dose Assessment and Protective Action Recommendation Not applicable.
18 1
VI.
Public Alerting and Instruction The township's role in public alerting and instruction consisted of the simulation of the dispatch of police vehicles to the residences of hearing-impaired individuals to alert them that the sirens and EBS systems had been activated and that they should seek assistance in receiving the emergency information being disseminated. The vehicles were dispatched at 2000 immediately after the sirens were sounded (simulated). A prescripted message was used, appropriate to the situation.
The township was prepared to conduct any route alerting made necessary by siren failure.
The township simulated notification of the alert stages and the need for sheltering to school officials at the appropriate time.
VII.
Protective Action Since no evacuation was ordered in this exercise, there was no activation of traffic control points. The township was prepared, however, to activate traffic control points if necessary.
A number of mentally retarded individuals reside in an apartment t
building in the township.
Provision for their evacuation constitutes a listed unmet need of the township. During the exercise the township confirmed this need with the county which would provide transportation in the event of an evacuation. The township also had an updated list of other mobility impaired individuals in the township.
VIII. Radiological Exposure Control No dosimetry or KI was available to the E0C, nor was its delivery i
simulated.
However, the use of personal dosimetry was simulated and record keeping cards filled out. There was no further activity observed in this area.
IX. Media Relations t
This is a county responsibility.
X.
Recovery and Reentry This was not an exercise objective.
(
XI.
Scenario The scenario generated a very limited need for response by the township. However, it did provide the E0C staff with the opportunity to go through the basic components of the plan, 19 l
West Pottsgrove Township E0C Deficiencies / Recommendations 1.
The township should consider establishing a position of communications officer in order to insure the availability of the township emergency management coordinator for his other duties. A communications officer would probably be able to provide a sessage relay between the RACES operator and the rest of the E00 staff.
I Amity Township EOC, Berks County I.
Activation and Staffing The Emergency Management Coordinator indicated that he had received notification of an Alert at the facility from the Berks County EMA at 1808. The EMC arrived at 1812 along with a number of E0C personnel who apparently had been notified by the EMC. The EMC was observed notifying other personnel via telephone.
All E0C organizations specified in the local plan were represented, most with a double shift (the deputies) to demonstrate 24-hour staffing capability. The EOC was fully staffed at approximately 1845.
II.
Emergency Operations Management EOC operations were capably directed by the EMC and supported by a Deputy EMC.
Important messages / notifications (e.g., Site Emergency, etc.) were read aloud to all E0C personnel alone with instructions on duties to be performed, etc.
Plans and SOPS were used continuously.
The E0C staff coordinated their operations quite nicely with many questions / problems raised and then resolved.
The Transportation Coordinator and other staff even placed phone calls to residents requiring transportation / medical assistance to demonstrate their procedures and confirm the accuracy of their lists. Since the exercise scenario did not test their full operations, the staff freely engaged in a number of "What Ifs" relative to evacuation.
1 III.
Facilities The EOC is in the municipal building and is adequate in terms of space, furniture, lighting and noise control. Maps and i
status / message boards were adequate and well utilized.
IV.
Communications 1
The primary means of communications for pre-alert stage is the telephone.
Post-alert stage primary communications is by RACES / ARES, 4
with backup provided by three touch-tone telephones on separate lines. Additional backup is provided by the VHF/FM county radio, and j
the police / fire iadio net.
During the exercise, the primary communicators were located in a separate room and appeared to be using the logs and message forms properly. The RACES / ARES personnel were familiar with the township standard operating procedures (SOPS) 20
__,_,_a
=m
==
~
and had a copy readily available. The RACES / ARES equipment used an outside antenna which is permanently installed. They are also in possession of a 4KW " green box" generator for emergency power, and are backed up by vehicle-mounted installations powered by the vehicle's batteries. The communications operation is adequate.
There appeared to be sufficient personnel for 24-hour communications operations.
f V.
Dose Assessment and Protective Action Recommendation Not applicable.
i VI. Public Alerting and Instructions The exercise scenario simulated siren activation at 2000. An EBS test message was played at 2003. A specific instruction to not perform route alerting was received from the county at 1807.
Despite these limitations the EOC staff did discuss the procedures for the full range of public alerting including route alerting. The Fire Services Coordinator, who directs route alerting, expressed concern over the " tracking" of hearing-impaired individuals, i.e., once they initially are alerted through the hand-held cards, how will the teams know where that individual goes or does in case subsequent alerting is required.
Note: the local plan (Draft 4, October 1983) does not contain a route alerting map. This map has been developed and will be forwarded by the township.
VII. Protective Action The exercise scenario included only " sheltering." The message to shelter livestock and feed with stored feed was received from the e
county at 1926.
During the de-briefing the issue of how the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture was going to notify local farmers, and instruction contained in the county message, was raised. The township would like to know how this will be accomplished.
When the instruction for general sheltering was received from the county at 1948, the E0C staff discussed the manning of ACPs by the Pennsylvania State Police.
They even called the county to determint its status and were informed that this activity was being simulated.
The staff actions did demonstrate their knowledge in this area.
VIII. Radiological Exposure Control
'ihe township had on hand 113 742s and 12 chargers; there were no 730s er TLDs. The Radiological Officer was observed properly calibrating and distributing dosimetry along with record keeping cards to both E0C and field staff. The staff all appeared trained in its use and were aware of maximum dose rates, procedures for authorizaticn for 21 9-
emergency workers to exceed limits and the proper location for monitoring and decontamination. The staff appeared equally knowledgeable in use of KI.
IX. Media Relations The township has a designated PIO who assisted in notification of township residents. His other activities were limited.
X.
Recovery and Reentry i
This was not an exercise objective XI Scenario The E0C staff commented that the exercise was too limited since evacuation activities were not included. They appeared prepared for much more field activity and expressed a desire for greater involvement in future exercises.
Union Township EOC, Berks County I.
retivation and Staffing The call initiating activation of the EOC was received from Berks County E0C at 1810. A written call list was available. the EMC called the E0C since she had not received notification; she arrived at the EOC at 1840. This completed the available staffing, the additional staff were present prior to alert time. Those present included: Chairman Union Township Board of Supervisors Union Township EMC, Fire-Police Services Officer, Radiological Officer, Public Works Officer, Communications Officer, and two RACES o perators. The township does not have police services, the fire services officer performs these duties.
No shift change or 24-hour staffing capability was demonstrated. The township is seeking qualified personnel to accomplish this capability. The staff were competent and knowledgeable, they coordinated effectively.
II.
Emergency Operations Management The EMC was effectively in charge of operations, she' consulted with l
staff throughout the operation. The township RERP was effectively utilized, messages were logged, and reproduced when necessary. The E0C was notified of Alert status at 1810, Site Area Emergency at 1905, General Emergency at 2032, take shelter at 1955.
Required actions were initiated according to RER plan. The Berks County E0C was contacted when necessary. Access to the E0C was controlled.
I Telephone and radio messages should be separately identified for ready reference, and follow up actions.
22 l
l
III.
Facilities The facility provided adequate space, furnishings, lighting and telephones. Back up power was available.
A status board was available, visible and up to date, with emergency classification levels posted. The plume EPZ maps were posted, maps of evacuation routes, relocation centers, access control points, radiological monitoring points, and populat an by evacuation area were available but not posted.
t IV. Communications 4
The primary means of pre-alert stage communications 1:: the telephone.
For post-alert stage, the RACES / ARES network is the primary means of communications, backed up by four telephone lines; two touch-tone end two rotary dial. The communications operation was adequate, but somewhat hampered due to the recent move of the E0C from the Kulpstown Firehouse to the Union Township Municipal Building. The situation should improve over the next several months when additional radio equipment is scheduled to be installed. The
/
additional equipment is presently on hand and consists of an FM/VHF
}
radio, and an outdoor tower. The external RACES antenna is on hand and will be permanently mounted to the tower when it is erected. The primary communicators were located in a separate room and appeared to be using message forms properly. There appeared to be adequate personnel for 24-hour communications operations. They had a copy of their 50P and were following it. They had a 4KW " green box" generator for backup power, and also had vehicle installation kits in their vehicles (which run off the vehicle's battery) as additional backup.
V.
Dose Assessment and Protective Action Recommendation Not applicable.
VI.
Public Alerting and Instruction l
At 1955 the county notified the township that the sirens would sound i
at 2000 (simulated) and EBS would be activated. The EBS station was l
monitored over WEEU, WHUM, the local EBS station could not be received.
No messages were aired over WEEU.
Calls were simulated to the fire company to initiate route alerting, schools, factories, and township workers.
VII.
Protective Actions l
A list of persons with special needs was available at the E0C. A written plan covers schools within the township. Calls were made to the Pennsylvania State Police to man traffic and access control points.
23 1
l
Vill.
Radiological Exposure Control High range dosimetry equipnent~ was delivered prior to the exercise.
The low and mid range dosimeters, batteries, film badges or TLDs and KI were not delivered. The batteries arrived at 1935.
The Radiological Officer simulated using the equipment; however, the equipment was not functional.
IX. Media Relations This is not a township responsibility.
X.
Recovery and Reentry This was not an exercise objective.
XI. Scenario The scenario was sufficient to provide activity relating to the RER Pl an.
Union Township EOC Deff ciencies 1.
Union Township has no capability for 24-hour staffing. The township should continue to seek personnel to accomplish this capability.
2.
Messages received should be identified as to source, i.e., phone.
RACES, two-way radio. They should be numbered individually and kept separate, to provide ready reference and follow up. A check off list should also be provided.
South Coventry Township EOC, Chester County This municipality did not participate in the initial full scale exercise on July 25,1984 or in the supplemental exercise on November 20, 1984.
" South Coventry Township EOC Deficiency 1.
Since South Coventry Township did not participate in either the initial or supplemental exercise FEMA Region III is unable to state that emergency preparedness is adequate to provide. reasonable' assurance that appropriate protective measures can be taken to protect the health an'd safety of Township residents in the event of a radiological emergency at the Limerick Generating Station.
24 0
m 2
V {I Warwick Township EOC, Chester County I.
Activation and Staffing The township EMC received the initial call from Chester County at 1823. The EMC verified the call at 1840 and notified the township board of supervisors by phone. The E0C staff mobilization was effected from a written call list and stafff ng was completed by 1850.
In addition to the EMC two of the three township supervisors, the cooperating neighboring volunteer fire company, transportation and ARES were represented at the E0C.
The EMC exhibited a sound background and knowledge of his-duties and exercised the staff well in this situation.
This EOC does not, at this time have the capability to operate for extended periods, neither in personnel nor in facilities. However, the township does have plans for the expansion of the facility which would enable the E0C to operate for extended periods of time. The township supervisors are trying to recruit additional personnel.
II.
Emergency Operations Management The township EMC, as designated in the plan, was effectively in charge of the emergency operations. He briefed the staff and referred to the implementing procedures as required. Message handling was good. A message log was maintained and reflected Alert status received at 1823, Site Area Dnergency status received at 1905, Shelter animals message received at 1935, general take shelter action order received at 1954. Rneral Emergency status received at 2022.
III.
Facilities The township EOC is located in Warwick Township Building which, at 4
this time, is a garsge. The EOC has sufficient space, but inadequate furniture.
It has good lighting and it appeared to have adequate phone service, two incoming and one dedicated to outgoing only.
Backup power is said to be available, however it was not demonstrated during the exercise. The maps appeared to be adequate and the status bcard was visible, legible and kept up-to-date.
IV. Communications Three commercial telephone lines were available and working. The E0C has its own radio communications tie with the county E0C. ARES supplied axommunications backup for this exercise.
The fire company does have a frequency available for backup but it was not demonstrated during this exercise. The communications officer exhibited dedication and sound understanding of procedures.
25
V.
Dose Assessment and Protective Action Recommendation Not applicable.
VI.
Public Alerting and Instruction Route alerting was demonstrated. A route alert team was dispatched at approximately 1910 hours0.0221 days <br />0.531 hours <br />0.00316 weeks <br />7.26755e-4 months <br /> and about 50 minutes were required to complete (simulated).
VII.
Protective Action EMC advised that the township does not order the traffic control points to be manned, but are responsible only for the verification that they are manned. This verification process was simulated during the exercise.
The list of names and addresses of impaired individuals in the township did not appear to be complete--only four names. Township officials expressed their concerns about their inability to develop a comprehensive list of the impaired citizens of the township. They have tried a number of ways to obtain the needed information; however, they get little cooperation from the community.
VIII.
Radiological Exposure Control This activity was not exercised.
Discussions with EMC and staff
~
indicated that there is an understanding of dosimetry equipment; however, the township has no such equipment.
Decontamination procedures were not exercised at this time; however, discussion with EMC and fire chief indicates procedures are in place and have been exercised in the past.
IX. Media Relations This is not a township responsibility.
X.
Recovery and Reentry This was not an exercise objective.
s XI. Scenario Due to the limited play generated by this scenario, many of the responsibilities of the township were not demonstrated.
Future exercises should include a demonstration of these responsibilities.
Warwick Township EOC Deficiencies / Recommendations 1.
List of impaired citizens of the township did not appear to be complete. Township officials are concerned about this and should l
explore alternative methods to enhancing the list.
26
2.
Substantial improvement is required in facilities and comfort.
The EOC should be provided with the equipment necessary to respond to an emergency.
3.
Additional personnel are needed to man the second shift should extended operations become necessary.
Support County of Bucks The Bucks County EOC is located in the County Administrative Building and was activated immediately after receipt of a telephone call from the State.
The office was staffed with County government and RACES personnel. Twenty-four hour emergency contact is maintained through the County Emergency Services Communications Net.
The Bucks County Omergency Services Coordinator was effectively in charge of the operations in accordance with the plan.
Communications, with redundencies to the primary system were effectively maintained with the State, Eastern Headquarters (State), adjacent counties (risk), reception centers, mass care centers and Red Cross Chapter. RACES supported the entire operation.
Messages regarding changes in status were received in a timely manner and the EOC responded,in accordance with the plan.
Reception Center The reception center activity was conducted at the Nottingham Fire Station in lieu of the Neshaminy Mall location. The activity was fully manned so no activation activities were observed. The person in charge of the center was knowledgeable of the plan and would be able to function well in an actual emergency. RACES provided communications with the County EOC and mass care center (s). Strip maps to mass care centers were available.
Mass Care Center The center was activated as a table top exercise and a mass care center planning session was held as school was in session at the Neshaminy/Langhorne High School complex.
There is ample room for 1200 evacuees and a system for separately monitoring and decontamination prior to registration. The center is located over ten miles from the EPZ.
There is a plan to open additional centers as each center approaches capacity. There is sufficient space and equipment to start the operation.
Food is on hand and additional food could be obtained. Communications were maintained with the EOC and reception centers.
RACES and Red Cross supported the ( peration.
27 i
Monitoring and Decontamination Correct procedures were observed for monitoring and decontamination of evacuees. Center personnel indicated that automobiles would be checked but there was no written plan for this procedure.
Support County of Bucks Deficiency / Recommendation 1.
Procedures should be included in the plan for monitoring and decontamination of vehicles.
8 w
28
SUMARY LIST OF DEFICIENCIES /RECOMENDATIONS
(
This report has referenced two types of deficiencies: Category "A" and
[
Category "B".
It is important to differentiate between the two.
A Category "A" deficiency is of the type that would cause a finding that b
offsite emergency preparedness was not adequate to provide reasonable assurance that appropriate protective measures can be taken to protect the health and safety of the public living in the vicintly of the Limerick Generating Station in the event of a radiological emergency.
Category "B" deficiencies include those where demonstrated (and observed) performance during the exercise was considered faulty, corrective actions are considered necessary, but other factors indicate that reasonable assurance could be given that, in the event of an actual radiological emergency, appropriate measures can be taken to protect the health and safety of the public.
Also included under Category "B" deficiencies are Category "B" Recommendations. Category "B" Recommendations are those areas where performance was considered adequate but where a correctable weakness was noted. Correction of the weakness would enhance the ability of the organization to perform their adequately demonstrated response capability.
4 e
9
P
SUMMARY
OF CATEGORY " A" DEFICIENCY Reference NUREG-0654 Proj'd 1.ctual Deficiency / Recommendation Part II Correction Date Date South Coventry Township EOC 1.
Since South Coventry Township did J.9.
not participate in either the initial or supplemental exercise, FEMA Region III is unable to state that emergency preparedness is ade-quate to provide reasonable assur-ance that appropriate measures can be taken to protect the health and safety of Township residents in the event of a radiological emergency at the Limerick Generating Station.
30
- wm
.n n.
SUMMARY
OF CATEGORY "B" DEFICIENCIES Reference NUREG-0654 Proj'd Actual Deficiency / Recommendation Part II Correction Date Date Douglass Township EOC 1.
Dosimetry and KI are not avail-0.4.
able for this exercise. The capability of the township emer-gency personnel to implement effective radiological ex-posure control was not demon-strated. Additional training in this area is needed.
Lower Providence Township EOC 2.
Message handling was haphazard.
E.2.
An organized system, such as was discussed by the staff during the exercise should be implemented.
Lower Salford Township E%
3.
Training should be provided 0.4.
to appropriate EOC staff.and J.10.e.
emergency workers in the -
proper use and handling of dosimetry equipment and KI, i
31 I
I
n
.n
SUMMARY
OF CATEGORY "B" DEFICIENCIES Reference NUREG-0654 Proj'd Actual Deficiency / Recommendation Part II Correction Date Date and with regard to emergency a
classification levels.
Dis-tribution of this equipment 9
should be demonstrated in the l
next exercise.
4.
A listing of available public A.3.
works equipnent resources should A.4.
be developed and maintained by the township.
5.
The County sent a message out E.6.
over RACES at 1955, advising them that the sirens would be acti-vated at 2000.
However, this message did not get to the EMC at Lower Sal ford Township untti 2013. The EOC was notified at 2003 that the sirens and EBS would be activated at 2000.
The RACES operator should pass criti-cal messages to the EMC immediately.
The EMC should clarify this with the RACES operator.
In addition, the County should insure that all municipalities are notified prior to activation of the alert and notification systems.
32
c--
m p
,,., j
SUMMARY
OF CATEGORY "B" DEFICIENCIES Reference NUREG-0654 Proj'd Actual Deficiency / Recommendation Part II Correction Date Date Schwenksville Borough EOC 6.
The plan should include a check-D.4.
list (guidelines) for actions to i
be taken at each emergency classi-fication level.
7.
The County notified Schwenksville E.6.
Borough E0C of activation of the siren system at 2003, after the system had already been activated.
Sufficient time should be allotted so that the County can alert all municipalities before the alert and notification system is acti-vated.
i Union Township EOC 8.
Union Township has no capability
.A.4.
for 24-hour sta ffing.
The town-ship should continue to. seek per-sonnel to accomplish this-ca pabil ity.
9.
Messages received should be identi-E.2.
fled as to source (phone, RACES, 33 9
9 P
r
SUMMARY
OF CATEGORY "B" DEFICIENCIES Reference NUREG-0654 Proj'd Actual Deficiency / Recommendation Part II Correction Date Date two-way radio). They should be numbered individually and kept l
separate to provide a ready ref-erence and follow-up. A check-off i
list should also be available.
Warwick Township EOC 10.
Lists of impaired citizens re-J.10.d.
quiring special assistance did not appear to be complete.
Township officials are concerned and should explore alternative methods to enhance the lists.
- 11. Substantial improvement is re-H.3.
quired for the EOC facility. The E0C should be provided with equip-ment necessary to respond to an emergency.
- 12. Additional personnel ard needed A.4.
to man the second shift should extended operations become necessary.
34
StMMARY OF CATEGORY "B" DEFICIENCIES Reference NUREG-0654 Proj'd Actual Deficiency / Recommendation Part II Correction Date Date Support County of Bucks 13.
Procedures should be incorpor-J.12.
ated into the plan for monitor-ing and decontamination of vehicles.
m M
35
I 1
SUMMARY
OF CATEGORY "B" RECOMMENDATIONS Reference NUREG-0654 Proj'd Actual Deficiency / Recommendation Part II Correction Date Date Douglass Township EOC, 1.
The township EOC is presently H.3.
under construction. This facil-ity should be completed as quickly as possible, the necessary furnishings and commun-ications equipment should be installed, and appropriate maps
~
posted.
lswer Providence Township EOC t
2.
At times the noise level in H.
the EOC made it difficult i
to be heard. Consideration I
should be given to locating other functions, such as l
RACES, outside the main oper-ations room.
)
3.
An attempt should be made'to N.
l schedule a more involved exer-cise in 1986.
3 4
I I
36 6
L E.
L
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i i
SUMMARY
OF CATEGORY "B" RECOMMENDATIONS Re ference NUREG-0654 Proj'd Actual Deficiency / Recommendation Part II Correction Date Date L:wer Salford Township EOC 4.
The township should complete F.1.
existing plans for the install-ation of a third commercial telephone line and permanent installation of the RACES
- antenna, i
5.
Future exercises should demon-E.6.
strate route alerting activities.
6.
The Borough EOC staff is con-J.10.g.
cerned about the evacuation of their own families. The bor-ough should discuss the matter of evacuation of emergency workers' dependents with the I
County Emergency Management Coordinator.
l l
Skippack Township EOC l
7.
The township should consider A.4.
establishing a position of
'k i
t I
37 i
n..
~-
i
SUMMARY
OF CATEGORY "B" RECOMMENDATIONS
~
Re ference NUREG-0654 Proj'd Actual Deficiency / Recommendation Part II Correction Date Date i
Communications 0.fficer in order to insure 'the avail-ability of the township emer-gency management Coordinator for his other duties. A Communications Officer would probably be able to provide a message relay between the RACE 5 Operator and the rest of the EOC staff.
West Pottsgrove Township EOC 8.
The township should consider A.4.
establishing a position of Communications Officer in order to insure the avail-ability of the township emer-gency management coordinator for his other duties. A Com-munications Officer would l
probably be able to provide j
a message relay between the RACES Operator and the rest of the EOC staff.
I i
38 l
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