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Management of Chemicals of Security Concern

Management of Chemicals of Security Concern

Terrorist’s choice of methods of attack is constantly changing. Therefore, security planning in NSW considers a broad range of attack methods including terrorist use of chemicals.

Whilst chemicals are widely used and available in NSW and approximately 40,000 chemicals make up 400,000 registered products, only a small percentage of these could potentially be used in a terrorist act.

The NSW Government is continuing to work with the Commonwealth Government and Industry to strengthen security around chemicals of security concern and raise public awareness to report suspicious activity.

In October 2008, the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) agreed to implement a National Chemical Security Management Framework to “minimise the potential to harm the Australian community, industry and infrastructure and reduce the risk of terrorist use”.

Two examples of overseas attacks where terrorist have used chemicals to make improvised explosive devices are:

New York 1993 – an attack was carried out by extremists on the World Trade Towers. The device, carried on a truck, was made from a mixture containing agricultural fertiliser. The attack on the North Tower killed 6 people and injured another 1,042 people.

London 2005 – near simultaneous attacks were carried out by a small group of extremists on the London tube and a double-decker bus. The devices were made using a mixture containing hydrogen peroxide. 52 innocent people died and hundreds were injured, many severely.

In Australia persons have been convicted of acquiring chemicals in preparation for a terrorist attack.

What can I do to help?

It is important if you see someone acting suspiciously around the use or acquisition of chemicals, that you report it to authorities

Who should I contact to report suspicious behaviour?

National Emergency Hotline on 1800 123 400

Who should I contact if I know chemicals/ chemical products have been stolen?

Local Police

What should I do in the event of a chemical incident?

Remain upwind of the incident scene.
Identify the type of incident. Is it a: Spillage? Fire? Explosion?
Determine if anybody is injured but be careful not to become a victim yourself.
If possible, identify the chemical involved.
Note the time and location of the incident.
Notify emergency services on 000, giving them the information detailed under items 2 to 5 above.