The purpose of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Decontamination Program is to ensure protection of veteran patients, employees, and infrastructure during emergency events involving hazardous materials and/or Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD).
In order to accomplish this mission, VHA provided the necessary funds for equipment and training. Initial equipment purchases and training was completed in fiscal years 2003 and 2004. At that time 130 VA Medical Centers were identified for inclusion into the VHA Decontamination Program and received portable decontamination systems, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and Training. Additional initiatives were approved to monitor and ensure operational readiness.
Mark St. Marie
CEOSH, Industrial Hygienist
Phone: 401-273-7100 x 3190