Crisis communication is one of the key components of chemical, biological, radiological
and nuclear (CBRN) events management and the successful management of a CBRN
event depends on the execution of effective and timely crisis communication mechanisms,
institutionalized in the response network. A CBRN event in form of an accident, incident
or terrorism attack presents a unique environment and challenges for communication,
which requires a specialized communication response, based on well-tailored ...
Crisis communication is one of the key components of chemical, biological, radiological
and nuclear (CBRN) events management and the successful management of a CBRN
event depends on the execution of effective and timely crisis communication mechanisms,
institutionalized in the response network. A CBRN event in form of an accident, incident
or terrorism attack presents a unique environment and challenges for communication,
which requires a specialized communication response, based on well-tailored education
and training of the communication personnel. This calls for development of an objective
and comprehensive approach towards crisis communication, indoctrinated and designed
in a well-defined curriculum based on theoretical scholarship and operational training.
Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine and address the needs for CBRN related
crisis communication and to develop a CBRN training curriculum for communication
personnel. This research was pursued by means of needs assessment method involving an
online survey targeted towards specific set of stakeholders involved within the field of
CBRN defense and crisis communication. Situational awareness, knowledge about risks,
operational information, and training in terms of understanding the origin of CBRN
events, chain of response network, message formulation, conducting interviews, and
employment of communication techniques while reporting on specific CBRN scenarios
have been identified as specific training needs. On the basis of the findings of the survey,
the training curriculum has been developed and suggested, which will contribute to the
sufficient communication training of communication personnel, leading to development
of extensive communication competencies and skills in the field of CBRN defense,
benefiting the nation-states.
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