Consortium of Technical Responders

con·sor·ti·um [ kun sáwrtee em, kun sáwrshee um ], noun

1. combination of organizations for common purpose: an association or grouping of institutions, businesses, or financial organizations, usually set up for a common purpose that would be beyond the capabilities of a single member of the group

Who Are We?

The CTR is comprised of numerous professional individuals who specialize in responding to incidents involving the malicious use of chemicals, biological pathogens and radiological materials. We are tasked with protecting our communities, citizens and our colleagues from the threat of, or use of, incidents involving weapons of mass destruction (WMD). The Los Angeles Operational Area “Consortium of Technical Responders” was formed in May of 2005. As our motto, objectives, and mission statement clearly state, the CTR was formed to unite our strengths. Our focus and determination is to bring together those individuals who are committed to the hazardous materials response community, in particular, responses to WMD/CBRN incidents. It is our sincere hope that this consortium fosters an elevated level of cooperation, dedication and readiness in this specialized field in propagating our mission. Individuals are selected based on their commitment and contributions to the community, and have been selected to represent their respective agencies to lead in this effort.

Our Objectives:

• Define and support the role of the Technical Responder
• Provide the forum for continuing education, information exchange and guidance for appropriate training
• Once established, be the one source, one voice for Command Staff, City and County Government, and all others, for guidance and information on CBRN response capabilities, roles, and missions.
• Continual review of technologies, procedures and applications.
• Adoption and peer review of protocols in order to develop understanding and continuity.
• Combat the negative effects of attrition in the Technical Responder field.
• Established leaders that remain in their Technical Responder positions.
• Provide opportunities for the interaction of all personnel and introduction of new personnel.
• Countywide approach with national vision.
• Advise other groups on CBRN related issues.
• Receive appropriate intelligence information pertaining to our responses.
• Provide a lecture forum for distinguished speakers.
• Defend the operational integrity of Technical Responders.
• Communicate with adjoining counties.