Emergency responders completed intensive training for a simulated hazardous materials incident in a forest setting near Horsham, West Sussex.

The drill was coordinated by the South East Coast Ambulance Service’s Special Operations Response Teams and recreated a scenario involving chemical contamination in woodland terrain.

Personnel from West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service provided support during the exercise.

SORT training manager Steve Babonau explained that operational staff equipped with Powered Respirator Protective Suits worked alongside fire service colleagues wearing breathing apparatus to conduct searches for simulated casualties.

The teams performed triage and medical assessment before transferring affected individuals to a decontamination zone where additional ambulance personnel in protective suits carried out washing procedures.

The training took place at the Woods for Learning outdoor adventure facility, operated by Gary Marlow.

Babonau expressed gratitude for Marlow’s provision of woodland access over several months.

Marlow was subsequently awarded a SECAmb Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of his contribution.

Babonau also acknowledged the involvement of external partners who facilitated the exercise.

The Surrey Casualty Union Branch supplied role-players to portray casualties, while Community First Responders participated as simulated victims and provided a mobile refreshment unit.

Horsham Rugby Club contributed space in its car park for the installation of decontamination structures.