Illawarra emergency exercise to test hazardous materials response

Today, Port Authority will engage in an annual multi-agency exercise, Weeping Dragon, to test its emergency response to hazardous materials in a simulated chemical spill off a vessel at berth in the outer harbour.

Port Authority’s Marine Operations team will work alongside NSW Ports, Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Ambulance and bulk chemical importers Ixom to mobilise a response to a simulated hazardous chemical spill into the harbour and at berth.  

Harbour Master for Port Kembla and South Coast Sharad Bhasin said the exercise was an important step in strengthening preparedness for the unlikely occurrence of a spill during cargo operations.

“Today’s training will test our emergency response under live conditions and enable multi agency crews to work together as the situation unfolds, including the rapid deployment of marine and pollution response assets and treatment of simulated casualties,” he said.  

“Exercises like this assist us in preparing to respond swiftly and effectively to protect people, the environment and port operations in the event of a real emergency.”

Regular emergency response exercises are conducted at all Port Authority NSW locations to ensure teams remain trained and ready to manage potential emergencies.

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