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DOE News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 13, 2002

NEWS MEDIA CONTACTS:
Kathy Gatens, 208-526-1058, kzc@inel.gov

INEEL bioterrorism expert conducts workshop for Idaho State Police

Microbiologist and the Department of Energy's Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory scientific fellow Frank Roberto will conduct a bioterrorism workshop for members of the Idaho State Police Commercial Vehicle Safety and Hazardous Materials Division on May 14. The workshop will be held at the Idaho Fish and Game office at 1345 Barton Road, Pocatello, Idaho.

Roberto, who is responsible for molecular biology research at the INEEL, supports the Laboratory and the state with information and testing in response to the nation's anthrax attacks.

Roberto will present the range of probable biological agents, scenarios of possible deployment, and the first responder's role and actions. The workshop will include lecture and exercises.

"I address the fear of the unknown," said Roberto. "Unlike a chemical agent that can kill in seconds, nothing in bio works that fast. You have time to control the situation."

"Our officers are very well trained for hazardous materials," said Sgt. Bill Reese, who organized the workshop. "However, a potential terrorist-type incident could involve biological agents and we want to be as up to date as possible on identification and response."

The officers, who are often called to assist local agencies, receive more than 3,000 hours of hazardous materials training. Reese, a state police officer for more than 15 years and a member of the hazardous materials division for 11 years, has more than 6,000 hours of training.  
Media are invited to interview participants at noon at the Idaho Fish and Game office.

The INEEL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's missions in environment, energy, science and national security.  The INEEL is operated for the DOE by Bechtel BWXT Idaho, LLC.

- INEEL -

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