Water Laboratory Alliance Analytical Preparedness Full-Scale Exercise Toolkit


&EPA
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
WATER LABORATORY ALLIANCE (WLA)
Office of Water (4608-T) EPA 810-B-20-001 | August 2018
Welcome & Overview
ntroduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule
Home
Step 6: Documentation Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Glossary
Analytical Preparedness
Exercise Toolkit
The Analytical Preparedness Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit provides the necessary guidance
and examples for organizations to plan and conduct their own exercise.

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Step 8: Exercise
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Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
Step 2: Participants
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule

Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary

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Welcome and Overview
What Is the Analytical Preparedness Full-
Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit?
The AP-FSE Toolkit is an interactive resource that provides the
necessary information and guidance for utilities and other
organizations to plan and conduct their own AP-FSE for a water
contamination scenario that requires analytical (i.e., laboratory)
support.The AP-FSEToolkit provides examples and templates
that organizations can use to develop all the necessary
documentation to support the exercise.
Exercise participants may include staff from water utilities,
laboratories and other Response Partners, including local, state
and federal environmental, public health and emergency
response agencies. Participants may take on the roles of exercise
planners, managers and players. Participant roles are discussed
in greater detail in Step 2 of this document. For a summary of
the exercise participant roles and responsibilities, click here.
The exercise planning team can either adopt the existing examples
or alter the materials to create new scenarios and supporting
documentation that meet its needs.The AP-FSEToolkit is intended
to be consistent with the Department of Homeland Security's
Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP)
guidelines. More information can be found on the Federal
Emergency Management Agency's HSEEP website.
Please refer to the Wl A Training Center for training and other
information on the use of the AP-FSEToolkit.

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Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
&EPA
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
WATER LABORATORY ALLIANCE (WLA)
Welcome & Overview
Introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule
Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary
What Is the EPA Water Laboratory Alliance (WLA)?
The WLA is an integrated nationwide network of laboratories. This network provides the Water Sector
(including drinking water and wastewater utilities, regulatory primacy agencies and Response Partners)
with the capabilities and capacity to analyze water samples in the event of natural, intentional or
unintentional water contamination involving chemical, biological or radiochemical contaminants. The
WLA is composed of public health, utility, environmental and commercial laboratories. The WLA is a
part of EPA's Environmental Response Laboratory Network (ERLN) and focuses on drinking water and
wastewater analyses. For more information, please refer to the WI A Fact Sheet.
What Is the EPA Water Security Division (WSD)?
The WLA program is led by the EPA Water Security Division (WSD).The mission ofWSD is to provide support to
drinking water and wastewater utilities to improve the security and resilience of our nation's water
infrastructure. WSD has developed a variety of programs, tools, training and resources to support Water Sector
emergency preparedness. In addition, WSD partners with other offices and divisions within EPA, including the
Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and the National Homeland Security Research Center (NHSRC), to
share resources, provide technical expertise and promote programs that benefit the Water Sector.
EPA Water Security Tools and Resources
• Water Laboratory Alliance Response Plan (WLA-RP): Process and procedures for coordinated
laboratory response to water contamination incidents that may require analytical support.
I A IT' Appendices: Word version of editable forms and checklists to support laboratory
response efforts; includes the Help Sheet for Requesting Analytical Support during an
Emergency Response (Appendix C), which provides prompts for the information that should
be exchanged when analytical support is first requested.
• Water Contaminant information Tool {WOT : Online tool that provides information on
chemical, biological and radiological contaminants.
• Compendium of Environmental Testing Laboratories (Laboratory Compendium): Online
national database of environmental laboratories.
• Web-based Electronic Data Review (WebEDR;: Web-based tool that performs automated data
evaluation of Electronic Data Deliverables (EDDs).
• Selected Analytical Methods (SAM) for Environmental Remediation and Recovery:
Identifies analytical methods to be used by laboratories tasked with performing analyses of
environmental samples following a homeland security event.
• Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) Template for I aboratories: f illable PDF to help drinking water
and wastewater laboratories create a COOP.
• vVLA Training Center: Collection ofWLA training opportunities, including live events
To learn more about other tools and resources, refer to the Resources section of this Toolkit or
visit the A/SD website.

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Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
Welcome & Overview
Introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule

Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary

What Is a Full-Scale Exercise (FSE)?
An FSE is an operations-based exercise in which live actions are taken (e.g., initiating
communications, mobilizing personnel and resources) in response to a fictional scenario. FSEs are
usually conducted in a manner that is intended to mirror a real incident. Personnel perform actions
as if a real incident has occurred. FSEs can be used to:
• evaluate plans, policies, agreements and procedures;
• practice implementing plans and procedures;
• clarify roles and responsibilities;
• identify resource gaps; and
• build relationships necessary for effective emergency response.
The HSEEP describes FSEs as "typically the most complex and resource-intensive type of exercise. They
involve multiple agencies, organizations and jurisdictions and validate many facets of preparedness. FSEs
often include many players operating under cooperative systems such as the Incident Command System
(ICS) or Unified Command."
What Is a WLA AP-FSE?
A WLA AP-FSE is an exercise designed to test the plans, procedures, resources, tools and personnel
needed to coordinate analytical support effectively for a water contamination incident. At a
minimum, these exercises include utilities and their support laboratories. The exercises may also
involve other Response Partners such as federal agencies, state regulatory agencies, first responders
and state and local public health and emergency management agencies. Activities in a WLA AP-FSE
may include the following:
• Communication and coordination.
• Sample collection.
• Sample shipping and receipt.
• Sample analyses.
• Data review and validation.
• Data reporting.
• Data usage (e.g., mapping analytical results, developing public notices).
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Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
&EPA
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
WATER LABORATORY ALLIANCE (WLA)
Home
Welcome & Overview
Introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule

Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary

Why Participate in an AP-FSE?
Effective coordination of laboratory support to water contamination incidents is critical to providing
emergency responders timely and accurate data to support decision making that protects human
health and the environment. Preparedness is the key to effective coordination. All organizations
involved in the response must understand their roles and responsibilities and be able to apply a
consistent approach to laboratory coordination that ensures success.
Participation in AP-FSEs enhances the preparedness of those involved in a variety of ways. Some of
the benefits include:
•	increasing participants'familiarity with EPA's WLA Response Plan (WLA-RP) and other
"best practices" forcoordination of laboratory analysis in support ofthe response to water
contamination incidents;
•	practicing coordination between drinking water and wastewater utilities and analytical
laboratories;
•	building relationships between utilities and laboratories;
•	building relationships with other Response Partners that are essential for effective emergency
response;
•	building laboratory capability and capacity by providing laboratories an opportunity to use a
wide variety of analytical methods; and
•	assisting utilities, laboratories and participating organizations in identifying areas for
improvement in their standard operating procedures (SOPs).
An overview of a previous AP-FSE is provided in the following table. It is intended as an example only
(i.e., it is not a prescription for future exercises).
AP-FSE Example
Scenario: Contamination of drinking water with Salmonella after heavy rainfall caused runoff from
agricultural areas and overflow of untreated wastewater from the local wastewater treatment plant
Exercise Components: Communication and coordination, sample receipt, sample analysis,
data review and data reporting
Players: One New England drinking water utility and three support laboratories
Analytical Samples:Ten drinking water samples per laboratory
Feedback from Past Exercise Participants
"1his was an advantageous study in which to participate. We got the chance to
build some relationships and network with other local laboratories and utilities in
our region. We were able to build our intra-laboratory communication skills... and
improve upon our laboratory quality control."- AP-FSE Laboratory Participant
"1his exercise is an awesome way to educate, enhance and test our training! We
learned so much and would be very much interested in participating again with
future exercises."- AP-FSE Laboratory Participant

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&EPA
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
WATER LABORATORY ALLIANCE (WLA)
Home
Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
Welcome & Overview
Introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule
Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary
w
CLICK HERE

Introduction:
10-Step Process for Planning and
¦I	m sttA * l
Sffl

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Introduction
Step 6: Documentation Step 7: Training
Step 1: Initiate
Step 8: Exercise
Step 2:
Step 9:
Introduction: 10-Step Process for
Planning and Conducting an AP-FSE
Process
There are "10 steps to developing, conducting and evaluating AP-FSEs, as listed on the right. Before
planning your exercise, please read through the entire 10-step process presented in this toolkit. It is
critical to be aware of activities and resources in each section before designing and conducting your
exercise. To access the glossary and find definitions of acronyms, click the "Glossary" button located at the
top of each page of this guide.
Generally, 6 to 12 months should be allowed for planning an AP-FSE depending on the complexity of
the exercise. Sufficient time will be needed to recruit exercise participants, develop and review exercise
documentation and obtain the necessary laboratory supplies for sample analyses. An example planning
schedule is provided in Step 5.1.
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Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
Step 3: Objectives
Step 10: Follow-Up
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule
Homeland Security Exercise and
Evaluation Program (HSEEP)
AP-FSE 10-Step Process

1. Initiate the Exercise Planning Process

2. Identify and Recruit Potential
Participants
Exercise Design
3. Identify Objectives
and Development
4. Develop the Scenario and Expected
Actions

5. Schedule the Exercise

6. Prepare Exercise Documents

7. Conduct Pre-Exercise Training Sessions,
Briefings and Laboratory Practice
Exercise Conduct
8. Conduct the Exercise

9. Conduct the Hot Wash
Improvement Planning
10. Perform Exercise Follow-Up Activities
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Step 1: Initiate
Step 8: Exercise
Flexibility
The AP-FSE Toolkit is designed to allow users to scale the scope of the exercise
up or down to meet their goals and objectives. At a minimum, each exercise should
include one utility and one laboratory.To meet the HSFFP definition of an FSE, where actions
are performed as if a real incident had occurred, at least some aspects of the coordination of
analytical support should actually be performed. Exercise planners are encouraged to include
actual sample analysis in the exercise. Doing so will directly test plans and procedures,
allowing participants to gain insights that would not be possible through the generation of
mock results.
There are many aspects of the AP-FSE that can be modified to control the level of effort
required to plan and conduct the exercise. Depending on the objectives and scope, some
aspects of the exercise that are scalable include the following:
Number of utilities.
Number of laboratories.
Number of Response Partners.
Complexity of the scenario.
Number of contaminants.
Number of samples analyzed per laboratory.
Inclusion of sample collection activities in the exercise.
Length of the exercise (note: the length of the exercise may be largely driven by the
time required for analyses).
Note: Some AP-FSEToolkit users may wish to develop a progressive, multi-year exercise
program, beginning with tabletop exercises (TTXs) and moving toward increasingly complex
drills and FSEs. See the VVI A t raining Center, contact EPA via email at yLA@epa.aov or
call the ERLN/VVLA Helpline at (703) 461-2400 regarding upcoming WLATTXs. Example
documentation in this Toolkit can also be used to support development of your own TTX.
Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
Step 2: Participants Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
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Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
Home
Welcome & Overview
Introduction
Step 6: Documentation Step 7: Training
Step 1: Initiate
Step 8: Exercise
Step 2: Participants Step 3: Objectives
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Step 4: Scenario
Resources
Step 5: Schedule
Glossary
CLICK HERE
SUMMARY
INFO
~\l~
Stepl:
""i* ¦¦
Initiate the Exercise Planning Process
1.1	Lead Organization
1.2	Kickoff Activities
1.3	EPA Support
1.4	Potential Costs of Conducting an AP-FSE

Step 1: Initiate the Exercise Planning Process
1.1 Lead Organization
For exercise planning to begin, there must be an organization that will lead the planning process and
ensure there is sufficient funding to conduct the exercise. Potential lead organizations may include,
but are not limited to, the following:
• Drinking water and wastewater utilities.
• EPA regional offices.
• State environmental or public health laboratories.
• State drinking water agencies.
• State or local emergency management agencies.
• Water associations.
The lead organization will assemble a planning team. Not every organization needs to be on
the planning team, but all participating organizations'interests should be represented. For more
information on the exercise planning team, see Step 2.1.1.
1.2 Kickoff Activities
AP-FSE kickoff activities can begin once a lead organization has been identified. Before beginning to
plan for the exercise, the lead organization should take the following steps:
• Contact EPA to express interest in conducting an AP-FSE and request the Agency's support
(see Step 1.3 on the following page).
• Review the Water Laboratory Alliance Response Plan (WLA-RP).
• Take EPA-provided traininc on the WLA-RP and the AP-FSE Toolkit:
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1.3 EPA Support
To help ensure success of the exercises and maximize the benefit to participating
organizations, EPA may be available to provide limited support to organizations
interested in planning and conducting an AP-FSE. The types of support that EPA
may be able to provide are listed below. Parties interested in using the AP-FSE
Toolkit to plan an exercise should contact EPA via email at ¦¦yi_A@epa.aov or call the
ERLN/WLA Helpline at (703) 461-2400 to indicate their interest in using the AP-FSE
Toolkit and to determine what EPA support may be available.
Examples of Potential EPA Support
•	Conduct training on the use of the AP-FSE Toolkit.
•	Participate in a preliminary call with the organization interested in leading
the exercise to provide an overview of the AP FSE loolkit and answer
questions.
•	Conduct training on EPA water security tools that can be used during the
exercise (e.g., Water Contaminant Information Tool [WCIT] and Compendium
of Environmental Testing Laboratories [Laboratory Compendium]).
•	Participate in exercise planning calls to answer questions and provide
suggestions, as needed.
•	Assist with identifying utilities and laboratories to participate In the exercise.
•	Answer questions on the AP-FSE Toolkit throughout the process of planning
and conducting the AP-FSE.
•	Serve as a technical expert for questions related to analytical method
selection, practice and sample analysis, data reporting, etc.
Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
Step 2: Participants
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule

Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary

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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
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Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
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Introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule
Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary
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1A Potential Costs of
Conducting an AP-FSE
One important consideration when
planning an AP-FSE is securing sufficient
funding to conduct the exercise. Staff
time will be required for exercise
planners, managers and players to plan,
conduct and evaluate the exercise.The
hours required will vary depending
on the scope and complexity of
the exercise. A general idea of the
time required for exercise players to
conduct the exercise is provided in the
Player HandoutTemplate in Step 2.2
(Recruiting Participants).
While many organizations may
volunteer the time of their staff to
participate in the exercise, there may
be other costs associated with planning
and conducting the exercise. Potential
costs for collecting, preparing, shipping
and analyzing samples and other
exercise-related costs are provided in
Table 1.4 (see the following page).

Table 1.4 Potential Costs
Costs
Considerations
Sample Bottles and Shipping Containers
If samples are collected in the field or prepared by a third party, sample bottles and appropriate shipping containers will be needed.
Preparation of Spiked Samples
Analysis of spiked samples is recommended in order to better simulate the scenario.
Option 1 (Preparation by Third Party): Usually requires payment of a flat fee for preparing the samples. This option is recommended when data from the exercise are going to be
used to evaluate method performance.
Option 2 (Preparation by Participant Laboratories): The cost of the standards to prepare the samples will need to be covered.
Sample Shipment
Samples will need to be shipped or couriered to the participating laboratories from either the utility or the sample preparation laboratory unless laboratories will be preparing and
spiking their own samples.
Sample Analyses
Laboratories might be willing to donate their time to participate in the exercise, but they may be unable to cover the costs of the reagents and other consumables needed to analyze
practice and exercise samples. If this is the case, there are a few options to make it easier for laboratories to participate in the exercise. These include:
Option 1: Pay the laboratories a flat fee to cover the entire cost of sample analyses (i.e., labor and supplies).
Option 2: Pay the laboratories a flat fee to cover the cost of supplies.
Option 3: Have the lead organization coordinate obtaining the reagents and consumables needed to analyze the exercise samples and provide these materials to the participating
laboratories free of charge.
Examples of Other Costs
General supplies. • Refreshments.
Binders. • Postage.
Office supplies for the Incident • Conference lines.
Command Post (ICP). . Web-hosting services.
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
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WATER LABORATORY ALLIANCE (WLA)
Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
Welcome & Overview
Hnmp
Introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule
1 1 \J I 1 1 w
Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary
- L
Step 2:
Identify^and Recruit Potentia

CLICK HERE
SUMMARY
INFO
%
Participants
2.1	Exercise Participants
2.2	Recruiting Participants

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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
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Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit

Home

Welcome & Overview
Introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule

Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary

Step 2: Identify and Recruit Potential Particnpants

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Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
&EPA
WATER LABORATORY ALLIANCE (WLA)
Welcome & Overview
Introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule
Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary
2.1.1 Exercise Planning Team, Controllers and Evaluators
Those involved in planning, managing and evaluating an AP-FSE include the exercise planning team,
controllers and evaluators. A brief description of the general roles and responsibilities of each is provided
in Table 2.1.1.
Table 2.1.1 Roles and Responsibilities of Exercise Planning Team, Controllers
and Evaluators
The exercise planning team should be of manageable size while still being representative of all the
organizations participating in the exercise. It may not be necessary for every organization to participate
in the exercise planning team as long as their interests are represented. For example, the interests of all
participating laboratory players could be represented by someone from a single laboratory (e.g., the
utility laboratory or a state laboratory).
Role
Responsibilities
Exercise Planning Team,
including an Exercise Director
Oversees the successful execution of all aspects of an exercise.
Schedules and participates in exercise development meetings.
Develops exercise objectives and exercise scenario(s).
Prepares and distributes AP-FSE documents.
Coordinates recruitment of AP-FSE players.
Conducts AP-FSE pre-exercise briefing and training sessions.
Coordinates and conducts AP-FSE Hot Wash.
Prepares AP-FSE After-Action Report (AAR).
Controllers
Help plan and manage AP-FSE play.
Simulate roles of individuals and agencies not participating in the
AP-FSE.
Provide key data to players.
Prompt or initiate certain player actions to ensure AP-FSE continuity.
Supervise the safety of all exercise participants.
Evaluators
Record events that take place in their evaluation location.
Evaluate the players'activities using Exercise Evaluation Guides (EEGs).
Note: Evaluators should not interfere with the flow of the exercise.
The number of controllers needed for an exercise will depend on the complexity of the exercise. Ideally,
the selected controllers will have some knowledge of emergency response procedures, utility and
laboratory operations (e.g., from experience in a utility laboratory) and, if possible, the analytes and
methods being used. If the controllers do not have expertise with the analytical methods being used,
then a subject matter expert should be available to address technical questions during the exercise.
Evaluators should be assigned to each utility and laboratory participating in the exercise. It may also
be helpful to have an evaluator for any key Response Partners that are involved. Evaluators are often
selected from the organization they are assigned to evaluate.
Due to staffing limitations, it may occasionally be necessary for the controllers or members of the
exercise planning team to also act as players. (Having an evaluator act as a player is not encouraged.)
When acting as players, these individuals should be instructed to base their actions only on the
information available to the players.

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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
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Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
Welcome & Overview
Introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule

Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary

2.1.2 Exercise Players
AP-FSE players may include drinking water and wastewater utilities, laboratories and other Response
Partners (local, state and federal environmental, public health and emergency response agencies).
Players take an active role in the exercise by performing their regular roles and responsibilities in
response to the risks and hazards presented by the exercise scenario.
Likely player activities are provided in Table 2.1.2; however, this is not an exhaustive list. Depending
on the exercise goals and objectives, the activities performed by each player might change, and
some activities, such as sample collection, may be notional (e.g., samples may be prepared in a
laboratory rather than being collected in the field). Exercise players generally will also participate in a
pre-exercise briefing, training sessions and a post-exercise Hot Wash.
Utility players often serve as the Analytical Services Requester (ASR) by leading the coordination
of analytical support in response to a water contamination incident at their facility. In this case, the
utility would perform most of the duties listed for the ASR in Table 2.1.2 (see the following page).
However, when utility resources are limited, the incident is large or multiple sectors are impacted,
coordination of analytical support may be handled by another organization, such as a state drinking
water agency, state laboratory or EPA regional laboratory. In these cases, most, if not all, of the
activities listed in Table 2.1.2 for the ASR would be undertaken by the organization responsible for
coordinating laboratory support rather than the utility. However, the drinking water utility would still
be involved in coordination of the response.
Staff members with various roles in each organization can benefit from AP-FSE participation. For
example, an organization might want to include public information officers (PIOs), utility operators,
laboratory directors or finance staff in the exercise, to practice communication and coordination
between different departments.
Exercises provide a good opportunity for cross-training staff. However, staff members should not
participate in roles in which they would never serve based on their current position (e.g., a laboratory
technician should not play an on-scene coordinator).
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
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Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
Home
Welcome & Overview
Introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule
Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary

Table 2.1.2 Roles and Responsibilities of Players and Observers During an AP-FSE
Role
Responsibilities
CORE ACTIVITIES FOR WLA AP-FSE PLAYERS
Analytical Services Requester
(Utility or other Response
Partner)
Coordinates all activities related to providing analytical support. • Coordinates sample analysis.
Identifies laboratories. • Receives data.
Holds daily briefings with support laboratories. • Coordinates with other Response Partners.
Coordinates sample collection and shipping (may be notional).
Laboratories
Receive samples.
Analyze samples.
Review and report data.
Answer technical guestions.
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES FOR WLA AP-FSE PLAYERS
Other Response Partners*
Practice lines of communication and incident notification. • Provide technical expertise to answer guestions from the utilities and laboratories.
Support development of public notifications including "Do not use"and "Do not drink." • Assist with sample collection and shipping.
Support development of press releases. • Help compile and evaluate data.
Participate in briefing calls with utilities, laboratories and other Response Partners. • Provide status updates to other organizations.
ACTIVITIES FOR WLA AP-FSE OBSERVERS
Observers
Observe exercise activities either on site or via conference call to gain a better understanding of the procedures to be followed and decisions to be made when coordinating analytical support
for water contamination incidents.
^Response Partner activities will vary widely depending on the organization and its likely role during an emergency response. Many of these activities may be notionalized.

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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
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Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
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Welcome & Overview
Introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
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Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
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2.1.3 Exercise Observers
Observers may include utility or laboratory personnel, Response Partners, elected officials or other
parties that are interested in learning about coordinating analytical support for water contamination
events, but are unable to participate in the exercise as active players or evaluators due to lack of
resources or other reasons.They observe exercise activities either on site at one of the participating
utilities or laboratories or via conference call during briefing calls, status updates, etc. According to
HSEEP, "observers do not directly participate in the exercise; rather, they observe selected segments of
the exercise as it unfolds."
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2.2 Recruiting Participants
AP-FSE participants should be recruited early in the exercise planning process. When initially contacted, potential participants
should be provided with the nformation provided in Table 2.2. During recruitment, the lead organization or exercise planners
may want to provide a handout to potential exercise participants that includes background information on the exercise. The
handouts can be customized to target each group of participants (e.g., players, evaluators, controllers).
Player Handout Template
This Word document can be customized by the lead organization or exercise planning team and
distributed to potential exercise piayers
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Table 2.2 Information to Provide Potential Exercise Participants During Recruitment
Participants
Information to Provide During Initial Recruitment
All Participants
The purpose of the AP-FSE.
Their roie in the AP-FSE, including the anticipated level of effort.
How participation will benefit their organization.
Anticipated date of the exercise.
High-level summary of the scenario.
Analytical Service Requester
(Utility or other Response
Partner)*
The number of laboratories the ASR will coordinate.
The contaminants that will be involved.
The methods that will be used.
How data will be reported.
Laboratories
The contaminants that will be involved (unless the scenario is for
an unknown contaminant).
The methods that will be used (unless the scenario is for an
unknown contaminant).
Number of samples to be analyzed.
Any reguired practice analyses.
The method of data reporting.
Any anticipated compensation for participation.
*ln most cases, the utility will be involved in formulating these exercise elements.
2.2.1 Utilities
When recruiting utilities to participate in the exercise, consideration should be given to the resources
of the utility and the level of effort (e.g., acting as the ASR or limited participation) required for the
exercise. Small utilities may have limited personnel, and it may be difficult for them to divert staff
from normal duties.These small utilities might benefit from acting as observers, which would allow
them to learn about best practices for coordinating analytical support for water contamination
events at a reduced level of effort.
Organizations that might be able to help identify utility recruits include the following:
• The state's Water/Waste water Agency Response Network (WARN). Click here for
information about WARN.
• The state's drinking water regulatory agency.
• EPA Regional Laboratory Directors.
• EPA's WLA Team: email the WLA Team at WLA@epa.ciov or contact the ERLN/WLA Helpline at
(703) 461 -2400, Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM I T, except federal holidays.
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2.2.2 Laboratories
Prior to recruiting laboratories, the exercise planning team will need to determine
what criteria (for example, involving analytical capabilities, existing relationships
and contractual agreements) should be used to select laboratories. In most
cases, decisions are made in advance about the contaminant(s) included in
the scenario and the analytical methods that will be used to detect these
contaminants.Then the exercise controller or exercise planning team selects
laboratories that have the capability to perform the analytical methods or
the ability to develop the capability through practice analyses. However, if
the exercise planning team prefers to engage laboratories based on existing
relationships or contractual agreements, the scenario, contaminant(s) and
analytical methods might need to be modified.
While the recommended best practice is for all participating laboratories to use
the same method to ensure comparability of the data, there may be cases where
exercise designers let the participating laboratories choose which method to
use. If the scenario involves identification of an unknown contaminant, recruited
laboratories will need to have the capability to perform a wide range of analyses.
Resources for identifying capable laboratories include the following:
Local or state environmental or public health laboratories.
The Compendium of Environmental Testing Laboratories (Laboratory
Compendium).
EPA Regional Laboratory Directors-
Accessing Laboratory Support, which provides information on identifying
laboratories to provide support for water contamination incidents.
EPA's WLA Team: email the WLA at 'LA@epa.gov or contact the ERLN/
WLA Helpline at (703) 461-2400, Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM E I,
except for federal holidays.
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2.2.3 Other Response Partners
Utilities and laboratories are strongly encouraged to involve Response Partners in the exercise.
Potential Response Partners represent organizations that would likely be involved during a water
contamination incident. A list of potential organizations is provided below.
The exercise planning team can design the exercise so that Response Partners can play an active
role by performing some of the activities that are presented as notional in the included scenarios.
Suggested activities for Response Partners during the exercise are provided in Table 2.1.2. Utilities
and laboratories participating in the exercises are encouraged to notify potential Response
Partners of the exercise, even if the Response Partners are unable to play an active role.
Potential Response Partners
• State drinking water agencies.
• State Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network (WARN).
• Local and state elected officials.
• Local and state emergency management agencies.
• Local and state Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs).
• Local and state health departments.
• Drinking water associations (e.g., rural water associations).
• Federal government agencies (e.g., EPA, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC]).
• First responders/emergency managers.
• Hospitals, including emergency rooms.
• Law enforcement (including the Federal Bureau of Investigation [FBI]).
• Media.
• Other water utilities.
• Phone companies.
• Poison Control Centers.
• Power companies.
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Past Exercise Participants' Recommendation:
Engage Response Partners to Develop Relationships
"The exercise was useful in making us aware that an important part of a
scenario where a boil water order would last for days would be how the local
hospital would handle the situation. We will be reaching out to them to see if
they have developed a plan."- AP-FSE Utility Participant
"The different boards of health may have been a good agency to have on
board with the exercise because both the utilities and laboratories would
be working with them as well if this had been an actual event." - AP-FSE
Evaluator
"Some water analysis labs are not part of the Public Health system and may
not have these relationships with Public Health. While I realize that not all
partners could be part of this exercise, it seems like a good opportunity to start
to forge those connections." - AP-FSE Laboratory Participant

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:
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3.1 Developing Exercise Objectives
3.2 Examples of Exercise Objectives
3.3 Organization-Specific Objectives
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A
0$C HH

Step 3: Identify Objectives 3,2 Examples of Exerciseobjectives
3.1 Developing Exercise Objectives
One of the first tasks for the exercise planning team is to develop
exercise objectives. Objectives are distinct outcomes that the
participating organizations wish to achieve by conducting the
exercise.The exercise objectives should represent the interests
of all the organizations participating in the exercise. The exercise
planning team should use the exercise objectives to drive
development of the remainder of the exercise documentation.
When the exercise is complete, the exercise outcomes will be
evaluated against the exercise objectives to determine if the
objectives were achieved or if corrective actions need to be
implemented to address any gaps in preparedness. Exercise
objectives could incorporate any of the following:
• Evaluation and testing of plans, processes and procedures.
• Identification of gaps in resources necessary for effective
response to water contamination events.
• Development of relationships between utilities,
laboratories and other Response Partners.
• Evaluation of analytical methods for use during water
contamination incidents.
Note:These exercises are designed to be conducted in a no-fault
atmosphere that focuses on making improvements to plans and
procedures, rather than finding fault with specific individuals or
organizations.
A list of objectives used for previous exercises is provided below:
Practice the procedures of the EPA Water Laboratory
Alliance Response Plan (WLA-RP).
Practice coordination of analytical support for a water
contamination incident between drinking water utilities
and analytical laboratories.
Practice and evaluate internal standard operating
procedures (SOPs) of exercise players.
Build relationships between utilities, laboratories and
other Response Partners to facilitate coordination of
analytical support to a water contamination incident.
Build proficiency using the newly optimized methods for
chemical and biological contaminants.
Evaluate the use of EPA's Web-based Electronic. Data
Review (WebEDR' application for chemical data.
Evaluate the effectiveness of National Incident
Management System (NIMS) training.
Evaluate use of the emergency operations plan (EOP) or
continuity of operations plan (COOP).
Issue identification is not os valuable as suggestions
and recommended actions that could improve response
efforts. Problem-solving efforts should be the focus.

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33 Organization-Specific Objectives
In addition to the exercise objectives developed by the planning
team, laboratories and Response Partners should consider
developing objectives specific to their organizations.These
objectives should focus on establishing relationships with
Response Partners and practicing and evaluating internal SOPs.
Examples of organization-specific objectives could include the
following:
• Identification of Response Partners and practice
implementing Response Partner roles and responsibilities
during an emergency.
• Evaluation of the organization's phone tree for contacting
Response Partners during an emergency.
• Practicing the use of the organization's communications
tracking system to track all exercise communications.
• Evaluation of procedures for handling calls from the media
and other outside callers.
• Evaluation of data review and validation procedures.
• Evaluation of the laboratory's Laboratory Information
Management System (1 IMS) to output data reports in the
format requested by the Analytical Services Requester (ASR).
• Evaluation of backup systems and staff redundancy to meet
exercise needs.
• Evaluation of systems to distribute information and
notifications to the public.
• Evaluation of the process for preparing "do not drink"and
"do not use" notices.
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Develop the'
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4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
Scenario Development
Analytical Decisions
Spiked Samples
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Step 4: Develop the Scenario and Expected Actions
BOIL WATER
NOTICE
IN EFFECT
4.1 Scenario Development
The exercise scenario should be designed to support exercise
participants in meeting the stated exercise objectives. Ideally,
the exercise scenario is developed early in the exercise
planning process. Scenarios generally start with a trigger event
that indicates there is an actual or potential drinking water
contamination incident. Potential trigger events could include
natural disasters, terrorist threats, chemical spills, industrial
accidents, customer complaints or illnesses. When developing a
scenario, consider the following:
• What are the potential threats to the utility's drinking
water system (e.g., likelihood of natural disasters,
susceptibility to intentional contamination)?
• What are likely contaminants for the drinking water utility
based on historical data, water source and proximity to
industry or chemical storage facilities?
• What part of the response will the exercise cover
(e.g., contaminant identification, determining extent
of contamination, assessing the effectiveness of
decontamination, whether it is safe to return to service)?
Due to time constraints, it may not be possible to play
out the analytical support needed for all phases of the
response during one exercise.
• Does the scenario present opportunities to evaluate,
test or practice all procedures and plans included in the
exercise objectives?
• Are any components of the scenario cost-prohibitive?
Scenarios will ideally be as realistic as possible. When selecting
a contaminant, consider the contaminant's properties. Some
properties to consider when designing the scenario are provided
below. Additional information can be found using the Water
Contaminant Information Tool (WCIT).
Contaminant Properties
• Is it soluble?
• Will it break down quickly?
• Is it impacted by water treatment?
• How toxic is it?
• What are the symptoms of people exposed to the
contaminant?
• How long does it take after exposure for the onset of
symptoms to occur?
• Does it have a taste or odor likely to be detected by
customers?
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Glossary
Two example scenarios are provided. These scenarios can be used as they are
or modified as needed to ach eve exercise objectives.
DOWNLOAD EXAMPLE
DOWNLOAD EXAMPLE
These scenarios are based on the assumption that these incidents involve a small, localized
response and that the impacted drinking water utility coordinates all laboratory support.
Modifications will need to be made for larger incidents or if an organization other than the
drinking water utility is responsible for coordinating laboratory activities.
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4.2 Analytical Decisions
The types of laboratory analyses performed during the exercise should be driven by the exercise
objectives and exercise scenario. Some types of analyses that may be included in the AP-FSEs include
the following:
• Screening-level analyses.
• Quick turn-around analyses to identify the extent of contamination.
• Processing and analyses of large-volume samples (10 1 -100 L).
• Confirmatory analyses to determine the effectiveness of decontamination strategies.
• Confirmatory analyses to determine if it is safe for a utility to return to service.
It is recommended that if more than one laboratory analyzes samples, all laboratories use the same
analytical method to ensure data comparability. Potential sources of method information include the
following:
1. Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM) - SAM
provides access to analytical methods that have been selected by technical work groups
representing multiple federal and state agencies specifically for analysis of environmental
samples following a contamination incident.The methods selected are considered to be the
most appropriate, currently available procedures for analysis of environmental samples for the
chemical, pathogen, toxin and radiochemical target analytes listed in SAM.
2. Water Contaminant Information Tool (WCIT) - WCIT includes analytical and field testing
methods (if available) for more than 800 contaminants.The recommended SAM methods are
included in WCIT and are flagged for easy reference.
3. Approved EPA drinking water methods.
4. Solid waste methods from EPA's SW-846 compendium.
4.3 Spiked Samples
Ideally, laboratories will analyze spiked samples to simulate the water contamination described in
the scenario.This provides an opportunity for laboratories to assess the method and their reporting
capabilities for samples that provide measurable results. Spiked samples can be prepared either by a
third party or by participating laboratories themselves. Any arrangements to have a third party prepare
the samples should be made several months prior to the start of the exercise.
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4.4 Data Reporting
Data reporting can be one of the most challenging aspects of exercises and real events. This is especially true when multiple
laboratories are submitting data for a large number of samples. It is recommended that laboratories be provided a standardized
format for data submission to reduce the amount of time required to complie and review data. The data reporting templates
were developed to allow laboratories to upload data via WebEDR or to submit data directly to the ASR.The templates nclude
instructions, descriptions of all of the required fields and example data to llustrate the type of information entered in each field.

DOWNLOADTOVIITATO
EPA has developed the Web-based Electronic Data Review (WebEDR) system for reporting
incident data electronically. WebEDR provides laboratories with the ability to manage, store
and submit data files, to check files for content and completeness prior to submission and to
review the status of previous submissions. If you are interested in using WebEDR for your AP-
FSE, please contact EPA at WLA@epa.aov for support. For more information about WebEDR,
visit the WebEDR site.
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5.1 Activities to Complete
5.2 Exercise Development Schedule
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Step 5: Schedule the Exercise
5.1 Activities to Complete
Exercise planning may take 6 months to a year, depending on the complexity of the exercise.
A list of major exercise planning steps is provided in Table 5.1, along with the recommended
timeframe for completion. The exercise planning schedule should be developed early in the
planning process. Updates should be made and new schedules distributed as needed. For an
example schedule, click here.
Table 5.1 Recommended Schedule for Exercise Activities
Activity
Time Frame in Relation to Exercise
Concept & Objectives Meeting / Initial Planning Meeting /
Exercise Kickoff
6 months prior
Develop Exercise Objectives and Scenario
5 to 6 months prior
Recruit Exercise Participants
5 to 6 months prior
Schedule Exercise Date
4 months prior
Draft Exercise Documentation (Master Scenario Events List
[MSEL], Exercise Evaluation Guide [EEG], etc.)
2 to 3 months prior
Midterm Planning Meeting
Halfway through planning time
Order Supplies and Reagents for Laboratories (if needed)
3 months prior
Activity
Time Frame in Relation to Exercise
Conduct Practice Analyses (if needed)
1 month prior
Complete Exercise Documentation (MSEL, EEG, etc.)
1 month prior
Final Planning Meeting
1 month prior
Conduct EvaluatorTraining
2 weeks prior
Conduct ControllerTraining
2 weeks prior
Conduct Player Briefing
2 weeks prior
Prepare Exercise Samples
1 week prior
CONDUCT EXERCISE
N/A
Conduct Exercise Hot Wash
Immediately following
Prepare After-Action Report (AAR)
Within 3 months
Conduct Improvement Planning Meeting
Within 6 months
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Step 10: Follow-Up
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5.2 Exercise Development Schedule
The exercise planning team should meet on a regular basis to prepare for the exercise.The frequency
of the meetings may vary based on the team's experience in conducting exercises, number of
participants, level of detail, available resources and size of the team. While the number of planning
meetings needed for an exercise will vary widely, three are considered critical.The three meetings
and the recommended agenda items for each meeting are provided in Table 5.2.The date for the
exercise should be selected as early in the planning process as possible and be based on input from
the exercise participants.
Exercise planners may schedule a Concept & Objectives (C&O) Meeting to reach agreement on the
scope and objectives of the exercise prior to or in conjunction with the Initial Planning Meeting.
Table 5.2 Key Exercise Planning Meetings
Meeting
Topics
Initial Planning Meeting
Confirm exercise objectives..
Discuss potential exercise scenarios, including analytes and
methods.
Begin identification of potential exercise players.
Define exercise scope.
Discuss available exercise resources.
Discuss evaluation requirements.
Midterm Planning Meeting
Discuss exercise scheduling.
Discuss exercise logistics (e.g., who will prepare exercise samples,
where controllers will be located).
Review draft exercise documentation, including Master Scenario
Events List (MSEL).
Final Planning Meeting
Confirm that all exercise documentation and materials are final.
Confirm that required training and briefing sessions have been
scheduled.
Confirm that laboratories have the necessary supplies for sample
analyses and that samples will be prepared and shipped at the
designated time.
Confirm that contact information is available for exercise players,
evaluators and controllers.
Note: Additional planning meetings may be necessary.
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epare Exercise
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1 Documents
if -1
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
6.6
Documentation List
Master Scenario Events List (MSEL)
Exercise Evaluation Guide (EEG)
Organization Evaluation and Participant Feedback Forms
Controller/Evaluator Handbooks
Player Handbook/Packet
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Description
Master Scenario Events List (MSEL)
A chronological listing of the events that drive exercise play. The MSEL contains event synopses, expected
participant responses, responsible personnel and injects (specific scenario events that prompt actions by
exercise players). It also records the method used to provide injects (e.g., phone call, radio, email).
Exercise Evaluation Guide (EEG)
The EEG provides a consistent format for recording exercise observations. It is aligned with exercise
objectives and identifies the critical tasks and observations for evaluators to focus on during the exercise.
The EEG is linked to the MSEL so evaluators know what they should expect to observe during each step.
Organization Evaluation Form
The Organization Evaluation Form provides participants from each organization with the opportunity to
provide input on observed strengths and opportunities for improvement identified during the exercise.
Participant Feedback Form
The Participant Feedback Form provides exercise participants with the opportunity to provide feedback
about the design, control or logistics of the exercise to help enhance future exercises.
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6.1 Documentation List
A list of major exercise documents developed by the exercise planning team and a brief description of each document are provided in
Table 6.1. Ideally, these documents will be finalized several weeks prior to the start of the exercise.
Table 6.1 Exercise Documents
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6.2 Master Scenario Events List (MSEL)
The MSEL guides exercise play through a chronological list of events that supplement and expand
upon the exercise scenario. If there are plans, policies and procedures to be tested that will not be
prompted by the exercise scenario, MSEL entries, or injects, should be crafted to prompt players to
initiate those actions. The timeline and sequence of events listed in the MSEL should be as realistic
as possible. However, not every action that occurs can be anticipated, and activities might occur in
an order other than what is listed in the MSEL. In some cases, actions that are not included or are
different than the steps and actions listed in the MSEL could yield results that are just as good or
better. Evaluators and controllers should note when divergences from the MSEL occur.The
following elements are recommended for each step of the MSEL:
• MSEL #-MSEL step number.
• Subject - a brief name for the activity.
Table 6.2 Example MSEL Format
Originator - the organization or person that prompts or begins the activity; this could be a
controller or player.
Receiver - the person or organization that receives the action; this will be an exercise player.
Event Time - the approximate time the event is anticipated to occur.
Method - how the inject or activity will be delivered (e.g., phone, email).
Event Description - a brief description of the activity that is anticipated to take place.
Expected Player Action(s) - a description of the expected actions of the players based on
best practices in the Water Laboratory Alliance Response Plan (WLA-RP) and other response
procedures.
An example of the MSEL format is provided in Table 6.2.
MSEL#
Subject
Originator
Receiver
Event Time (local)
Method
Event Description
Expected Player Action(s)
11
Laboratory sample receipt
Controllers
Laboratories
Afternoon of Day 1
Phone
The controllers contact the
laboratories and notify them that
they should have received the
samples.
The laboratories accept, process
and begin analyses of samples for
dicrotophos. Laboratories notify the
utility that samples were received.
12
Communication control
Controller (playing as
governor)
Laboratories
Day 2
Phone
Call from local cities, governor,
news media, etc. Controller:
"Acme Laboratory, this is the
governor's office of the state
of Iowa."
The laboratory refers the caller to
the utility and then the laboratory
notifies the utility of the contact.
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Two example MSELs are provided. These MSELs are based on the example scenarios provided in
Step 4.1 and can be used as they are or mod fied as desired to achieve the exercise objectives.
Chemical MSEL Example
MSEL based on the scenario involving contamination of drinking water with a pesticide
(dicrotophos) from an unknown source.
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Biological MSEL Example
MSEL based on the scenario involving contamination of drinking water with E. coli 0157:H7
after heavy rainfalls cause runoff from agricultural areas.
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The activities included in these MSELs are based on the assumption that these incidents
involve a small, localized response and that the impacted drinking water or wastewater
utility coordinates all laboratory support These example scenarios can be modified for
use when an organization other than the water utility is responsible for coordinating
laboratory activities or to address larger incidents.
Notional activities in the example MSELs could be conducted to allow Response Partners
to play a more active role in the exercise and allow for additional processes to be
evaluated (e.g., issuance of a joint public notice, first responder field screening and sample
collection, shipment and receipt of actual samples to laboratories).
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A MSEL template may be used by exercise planners to develop their own scenario and
associated documentation, if desi red.
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6.3 Exercise Evaluation Guide (EEG)
The EEG serves as a tool to guide evaluator observation and data collection.The EEG identifies the
activities that the evaluator should be observing and provides a consistent format for recording
exercise tasks. Each step in the EEG matches a step in the MSEL. Since the MSEL does not capture
all possible steps the players might take, the EEG, in turn, does not capture all possible tasks the
players might perform. Additional steps can be recorded in the blank rows provided in the EEG.The
following fields are recommended for the EEG:
• MSEL # - corresponds to the step number in the MSEL.
• Players - which player(s) should be performing the listed activities.
Table 6.3 Example EEG Format
• Task/Observation Keys - the description of the task that should be performed from the MSEL,
followed by a list of expected activities associated with that task (the section references refer
to applicable sections of the WLA-RP).
• Time of Observation/Task Completion - space for the evaluator to record when a step is
completed and to make comments.
In addition to the table used to record observations during the exercise, there is also space on the
EEG to record observed strengths and opportunities for improvement.The evaluator should record
these observations once the exercise is complete.
An example of the EEG format is provided in Table 6.3.
MSEL#
Players
Tasks/Observation Keys
Time of Observation/Task Completion
12
All Laboratories
Tuesday 06/17/2014 - Afternoon

Date:

Laboratories should accept, process and begin analyses of samples for dicrotophos.
Were samples inspected and any issues noted?
Did the laboratory notify the utility that samples were received?
Did the laboratory confirm that the chain-of-custody form (COC) had all of the required elements, and if not, did
it follow up with the sampler/utility (WLA-RP Section 3.2.2, Sample Tracking)?
Did the laboratory create an internal COC, if necessary (WLA-RP Section 3.2.2, Sample Tracking)?
Other
Time:

Task 12 Completed?
Fully ~
Partially ~
Not ~
N/A ~
Comments:
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Two example EEGs are provided. These EEGs are based on the example
MSELs provided in Step 6.2 and can be used as they are or modified as
needed to achieve the exercise objectives.
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An EEG template s provided so the exercise planning team can develop its own scenario and
associated documentation if desired.
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6.4 Organization Evaluation and Participant Feedback Forms
The Organization Evaluation Form is used to compile the input of participants from each organization (one form per organization).
The form will be used to record issues, accomplishments, observed strengths and opportunities for improvement identified during the
exercise. The lead organization will incorporate the information submitted by each organization into the AAR.

The Participant Feedback Form is used by exercise participants to rate the exercise and provide suggestions for exercise improvement.
Each individual participant should complete the Participant Feedback Form.

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6.5 Controller/Evaluator Handbooks
Controller/evaluator handbooks containing all the necessary exercise documentation should be
provided to the exercise controllers and evaluators in advance of the exercise. These handbooks
are restricted and are not to be shared with exercise players. Recommended documents to provide
in the handbook (either as a hard copy or digital version) include the following:
• Contact information for the controllers, evaluators and players.
• Exercise schedule of events.
• List of exercise samples distributed to the participating laboratories.
• MS EL.
« EEG.
• I valuator/controller training slides.
• Participant Feedback Form.
• Background documents helpful for controlling and evaluating the exercise (e.g., WLA-RP,
analytical methods).
6.6 Player Handbook/Packet
Although players do not receive the same detailed information about the exercise as the
controllers and evaluators, it may still be helpful to put together a handbook or packet (sometimes
called an Exercise Plan, or "ExPlan") containing general information about the exercise, possibly
including the following:
• An exercise synopsis including exercise objectives.
• An exercise schedule.
• Contact information for controllers, evaluators and players.
• Background documents helpful for conducting the exercise (e.g., WLA-RP).
• Organization Evaluation Form.
• Participant Feedback Form.
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k
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xercise raining Sessions,
7.1 Tool Training
7.2 Player Briefings
7.3 Laboratory Practice
7.4 ControllerTraining
7.5 EvaluatorTrain ng
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Pre-Exercise Training
Sessions, Bri efings and
Laboratory Practice
7.1 Tool Training
EPA Water Security tools are often used by an exercise
planning team to develop the exercise and by players during
the exercise to aid their response activities. A list of tools
commonly used to plan, prepare and conduct AP-FSEs is
provided in Table 7.1. To prepare for the use of these tools, the
following steps should be completed by multiple personnel
from each participating organization prior to the start of the
exercise:
• Register to receive passwords and user names, if the
tools have restricted access.
• Log in to each tool and become familiar with its use.
• Receive formal training on the use of the tool, if
available.
In some cases, the EPA WLA Team may be able to provide tool
training. Contact the WLA at WLA@epa.aov to find out about:
training availability.
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Table 7.1 Common Tools and Courses Used to Plan, Prepare and Conduct AP-FSEs
Tool
Uses
Access
Water Contaminant Information Tool (WCIT)
Research contaminant information for scenario development.
Field testing and laboratory method information.
Access the Information Officer Report to support development of public notifications.
Register for Access
Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM)
Identify analytical methods.
Public Access
Compendium of Environmental Testina Laboratories (Laboratory Compendium)
Identify laboratories.
Register for Access
Web-based Electronic Data Review (WebEDR)
Online submission of laboratory data and automated data review.
Register for Access
Accessina Laboratory Support
Learn how to access laboratory support
Public Access
WLATrainina Center
Water Laboratory Alliance Response Plan (WLA-RP) Training Module.
WLA Tabletop Exercises Webcasts
Collection of WLA training opportunities, including live events.
Learn about the WLA-RP.
Become familiar with the WLA-RP and other response best practices.
Public Access
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7.2 Player Briefings
A Player Briefing should be conducted with exercise players prior to the start of the exercise.
Depending on the number of players, the briefing may need to be offered at multiple times. The
Player Briefing can be conducted in person, via conference call or via webcast, and it should cover
the following topics:
Goals of the exercise.
Distribution and discussion of internal standard operating procedures (SOPs) that will be
evaluated during the exercise.
Pre-exercise preparations (e.g., review the WLA-RP, ensure access to required tools, take any
required training).
Review the controller role (e.g., manages exercise and provides injects) and provide contact
info for reaching controllers during the exercise.
Review the evaluator role and ensure all players have contact information for their evaluators.
Provide any safety instructions.
Review the Organization Evaluation Form and Participant Feedback Form.
Review exercise logistics (e.g., hours of operation of the exercise, pre-staging of exercise
samples [if applicable]).
Review exercise follow up activities, including submission of evaluation forms and
preparation of the After-Action Report (AAR).
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73 Laboratory Practice
If laboratories do not have experience with the method(s) selected for the exercise, it may be
necessary for them to conduct practice analyses, ideally 2-3 weeks prior to the exercise. These
analyses will allow laboratories to become familiar with the method(s), demonstrate method
proficiency and resolve any method performance issues prior to the exercise. Practice analyses
should include analyses of standards, blanks, positive and negative controls and unspiked and spiked
reference (e.g., buffered water) and matrix samples.To reduce each laboratory's burden during the
initial practice analyses, the number of samples analyzed to demonstrate method proficiency should
be minimized.
To demonstrate proficiency with an established method, the laboratory's results need to meet
method-specific criteria. Criteria for newer methods may not be available yet. In these cases,
comparison of the results from all of the laboratories will help to identify outliers (e.g., very low or
high recoveries compared to the other laboratories).
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7.4 Controller Training
If all exercise controllers are members of the exercise planning team, it may be unnecessary
to provide special controller training. If, however, controllers are recruited from participating
organizations or other sources outside the planning team, it may be helpful to provide training to
ensure that controllers understand the exercise, their role and their responsibilities.
Training could be conducted in-person, via conference call or via webcast.The following topics
should be covered in the training:
• Exercise Overview.
» Scenario.
» Master Scenario Events List (MSEL).
» Schedule and venue information.
» Logistics.
• Controller role and responsibilities.
» Monitoring the progress of the exercise.
» Making exercise injects.
» Conducting debriefs with exercise players.
• Hot Wash logistics.
7.5 EvaluatorTraining
I valuator training should be conducted prior to the start of the exercise, either in person, via
conference call or via webcast. Evaluator handbooks should be distributed prior to the training.The
following topics should be covered in the training:
• Exercise Overview.
» Scenario.
» MSEL
» Schedule and venue information.
» Logistics.
• Evaluator role and responsibilities.
» Process for completing the Exercise Evaluation Guide (EEG).
• Hot Wash logistics.
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A Controller Training Presentation template is provided to
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An Evaluator Training Presentation template is provided to
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r
\ :
Step 8:
!¦ »tr
Conduct the Exercise
8.1
8.2
8.3
8.4
8.5
8.6
8.7
8.8
Pre-Exercise Activities
Exercise Kickoff
Controller Responsibilities
Evaluator Responsibilities
Analytical Services Requestor (ASR) Activities
Laboratory Activities
Observers
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Step 8: Conduct the Exercise
8.1 Pre-Exercise Activities
There are several activities that need to take place in the month prior to the exercise. These activities
are listed in Table 8.1 .The Incident Command Post (ICR) Supply List provides a checklist of items to
have available at the exercise location.
Table 8.1 Pre-Exercise Activities
Activity
Description
Training Sessions
Confirm that exercise players have completed any reguired training
sessions
Player Briefings
Confirm that Player Briefings are complete and any remaining guestions
from exercise players have been answered
Laboratory Practice Analyses
Complete laboratory practice analyses 2 to 3 weeks prior to the start of
the exercise and review the laboratory data
Prepare Exercise Samples
Exercise samples prepared by a third party should be prepared prior to
the start of the exercise. Sample holding times should be considered
when determining how far in advance to prepare the exercise samples.
Ship Exercise Samples
Exercise planners may wish to have exercise samples shipped to
laboratories in advance of the exercise to avoid any delays due to
shipping problems. Laboratories can hold these samples until the exercise
starts.
8.2 Exercise Kickoff
The exercise kickoff should start with a briefing of the players to provide information on the
background scenario and any notional activities that have already occurred to set up the start of the
exercise.! lie set of players participating in this initial briefing will generally include the utility at the
center of the incident and any Response Partners involved in the initial response. The laboratories
might be included in this initial briefing or might receive background information on the incident
later, as part of the exercise play. The briefing is typically provided by one of the exercise controllers
verbally and in writing.
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8.3 Controller Responsibilities
Controllers are responsible for monitoring and managing the progress of the exercise. Generally,
controllers operate from a Simulation Cell (SimCel I) located at the facilities of one of the participating
organizations.The SimCell is usually a conference room or similar space with computers, Internet
access, multiple phone lines and flip charts or white boards for recording information.
The following are activities that controllers should perform prior to and during the exercise:
Prior to the Exercise
• Participate in controller training (if not part of the exercise planning team).
• Confirm access to the SimCell.
• Familiarize themselves with exercise goals and objectives as well as exercise players.
• Familiarize themselves with the exercise documentation including the Master Scenario Events
List (MSEL) and Exercise Evaluation Guide (EEG).
• Familiarize themselves with the Water Laboratory Alliance Response Plan (WLA-RP) and other
tools and resources that may be used during the exercise.
During the Exercise
• Monitor exercise progress.
• Provide exercise injects to keep the exercise moving.
• Simulate the roles of individuals and organizations that are not participating in the exercise
(e.g., media, elected officials).
• Develop a communications transition checklist to ensure information is transferred to players
on a daily basis.
• Conduct debrief calls with each of the players as they complete their part of the exercise (see
Step 8.8).
8.4 Evaluator Responsibilities
[valuators observe and record what happens during the exercise. Evaluators do not play an active
role in the exercise, and they need to avoid activities that could bias the exercise.This includes
sharing details of the exercise with the exercise players. Evaluators should attempt to observe as
many of the exercise activities first-hand as possible, rather than relying on interviews. In order to
allow evaluators to listen to all parties in relevant conversations, a speaker phone or equivalent
should be used for communication among exercise players.
The following are activities that evaluators should perform prior to and during the exercise:
Prior to the Exercise
• Participate in evaluator training.
• Confirm access to the facility they will evaluate.
• Familiarize themselves with the exercise documentation, including the MSEL and EEG.
During the Exercise
• Observe and evaluate player activities using the provided EEG.
• Report to the controllers any issues that arise, including safety issues and major deviations
from the MSEL.
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8.5 Analytical Services Requester (ASR) Activities
The role of the ASR may be played by the impacted drinking water utility or another Response
Partner (e.g., state drinking water agency, state laboratory).The ASR is responsible for coordinating
laboratory support to the mock contamination incident, including communicating all necessary
information to the laboratories in order for them to provide effective analytical support In addition,
the ASR must communicate and coordinate exercise activities with all other exercise participants,
including Response Partners.The following best practices are recommended to ensure that the ASR
effectively communicates and coordinates with other players during the exercise:
• Review the WLA-RP appendices.
• Conduct an initial briefing call with all the laboratories providing analytical support for the
incident. During the briefing, use the Help Sheet for Requesting Analytical Support during an
Emergency Response (Appendix C) from the WLA-RP Appendix C provides prompts for the
information that should be exchanged when analytical support is first requested.
• Conduct daily briefing calls with the support laboratories.
• Include Response Partners in initial and daily briefing calls with laboratories.
• Follow up in writing information that was conveyed verbally.
• Request that laboratories use a standardized format for data reporting, such as the chemical
EDD or the biological EDD.
8.6 Laboratory Activities
Laboratory activities are directed by the utility or other organization playing the role of the ASR.
However, as technical experts, the laboratories may be called upon to answer questions and make
recommendations regarding sample collection, shipment and data reporting.The following activities
are recommended as best practices to ensure the laboratory is providing effective support to the ASR:
• During the initial briefing call with the ASR, use Appendix C from the VLA-RP appendices.
• Follow up in writing information that was conveyed verbally.
• Report any requests for information from outside callers to the appropriate point of contact
(POC) designated by the ASR.
• Consult with the ASR regarding any problems with the sample analyses
8.7 Observers
Observers participate in the exercise to learn about coordinating analytical support for water
contamination incidents. Observers do not actively participate in the exercise and need to avoid
activities that could bias the exercise players'actions (e.g., providing advice to players). Their
observations can either be conducted on site at one of the participating utilities or laboratories, or
via conference call during briefing calls, status updates, etc. Observer participation in the AP-FSE
must be coordinated with the host organization in advance and should include arrangements to
access any facilities where they will be conducting on-site observations.
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8.8 Debriefs
The controllers should schedule a 30-minute debrief with each organization as its part in the exercise
is completed. Debrief participants include the organization's evaluator and the exercise players.
During the debrief, both the evaluator and the exercise players should provide feedback on the
following questions:
• What went well during exercise play?
• What issues or challenges did you encounter?
• What suggestions do you have for improving plans, procedures or response activities?
• What suggestions do you have for improving the exercise?
The debrief allows each organization's exercise participants an opportunity to provide immediate
feedback in a low-stress environment. It also provides each organization with the opportunity to
prepare for the upcoming Hot Wash. At the Hot Wash, representatives from each participating
organization will share their high-level findings with the other exercise participants.
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Step 9: Conduct the Hot Wash
9.1 Hot Wash
The Hot Wash should be conducted as soon as practical after the completion of the exercise, and
invitations should be sent out prior to the start of the exercise. The Hot Wash can occur in person,
via conference call, or via webcast and may last 2 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the
exercise and the number of exercise participants. Ideally, the Hot Wash will be led by a member
of the exercise planning team or an exercise controller with exercise facilitation experience. Each
organization that participated in the exercise should have an opportunity to present its observations.
Topics to be discussed during the Hot Wash include the following:
• Issues encountered, including gaps in resources, problems with method performance, etc.
• Strengths identified.
• Preliminary recommendations to improve preparedness.
• Recommendations to improve the exercise.
• Submission deadline for Exercise Evaluation Guides (EEGs), Organization Evaluation Forms and
Participant Feedback Forms (generally 2 to 3 weeks).
• Process for development of the After-Action Report (AAR).
Outstanding guestions can also be answered during the Hot Wash.The information provided during the
Hot Wash should be captured and used to support the development of the After-Action Report (AAR).
At the beginning of the Hot Wash, the facilitator should be sure to stress that these exercises are
designed to be conducted in a no-fault atmosphere that focuses on making improvements to plans
and procedures, rather than finding fault with specific individuals or organizations.This should be
emphasized during the Hot Wash and reflected in the findings of the AAR.
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Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
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CLICK HERE ,
SUMMARY
INFO ¦
Step 10:

Exercise Follow-Up Activities

10.1 After-Action Report (AAR) and Improvement Plan (IP)
10.2 After-Action Meeting and Improvement Planning
10.3 Acknowledge Participation
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Step 10: Perform Exercise
Follow-Up Activities
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10.1 After-Action Report (AAR) and Improvement
Plan (IP)
The AAR is developed by members of the exercise planning team.
The AAR provides an overview of progress toward exercise objectives,
highlighting strengths and areas for improvement. Generally, AARs
also include basic exercise information, such as the following:
• Exercise name.
• Exercise type.
• Dates.
• Location.
• Participating organizations.
• Specific threat or hazard.
• A brief scenario description.
• Name of the AP-FSE lead organization and POC.
The following information sources form a basis for developing the AAR:
• Exercise Evaluation Guides (EEGs).
• Organization Evaluation Forms.
• Participant Feedback Forms.
• Exercise Debriefs.
• Exercise I lot Wash.
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Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule
Home
Step 6: Documentation Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Glossary
Step 10: Follow-Up
An AAR template Is provided, but the length and format of the completed AAR will depend
on the type and scope of the AP-FSE.
DOWNLOADTElVlPmT
The draft AAR should be completed within 3 months of the exercise and provided to
participants to review. Participants should provide feedback and identify areas requiring
further action.
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Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule

Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary

The Improvement Plan (IP), which highlights strengths and areas for improvement, is developed by
members of the exercise planning team and can be included as an appendix to the AAR.The draft IP
can be developed as a matrix covering the following elements:
• Next steps to be taken for improving performance.
• Which individuals, agencies or organizations should be responsible for implementing the
improvements.
• Resources that may be needed to implement the improvement.
• Time frame for implementation.
10.2 After-Action Meeting and Improvement Planning
After completion of the draft AAR and IP, an After-Action Meeting should be conducted with the
exercise planning team and evaluators.This meeting can be conducted in person, via conference call
or via webcast. During the After-Action Meeting, exercise planners and evaluators should review the
draft AAR and IP.
Following the After-Action Meeting, the Exercise Director incorporates the received results,
corrections and clarifications into the AAR and appends the updated IP.The AAR is then considered
final and can be distributed to exercise planners and players. Exercise participants should share the
findings from the AAR with their management.
Action items captured in the AAR should be tracked and continually reported on until completion.
Each organization is responsible for implementation of action items that apply to it and should
assign a POC responsible for tracking and reporting progress to the organization's management.
Changes to plans and procedures should be evaluated and practiced through additional exercises as
part of a continuous improvement process.
An example of an improvement planning matrix is provided in Table 10.2, which designates actions
that will be implemented within a year as short-term items and those that may take longer as long-
term items. Each organization participating in the FSE may wish to develop its own improvement
planning matrix to address specific action items.
Table 10.2 Improvement Planning Matrix
Option/Task/Follow-Up
Lead Individual or Agency
Responsible
Supporting Individual or
Agency
Resources and
Possible Sources
Timeline
Short-Term Long-Term
Cross-train and hire additional laboratory staff to perform pesticide
analyses
Lab Director
Quality Assurance (QA) Officer
N/A

18 months
Obtain additional staff access and training on the Water Contaminant
Information Tool (WCIT)
Emergency Manager
Deputy Manager
Training Budget
3 months

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Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
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introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule
Home
Step 6: Documentation Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Glossary
Step 10: Follow-Up
10.3 Acknowledge Participation
The exercise planning team can acknowledge participat on in the exercise by providing
Certificates of Appreciation.
Certificate of Appreciation Template
PowerPoint file that can be customized to add participant names and organizations.
1
DOWNLOAm^FO^^
Exercise planners may also want to develop a press release that organizations can
send to local media, customers and other stakeholders to announce that they have
achieved enhanced Water Sector preparedness through participation in the AP-FSE.
m
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Welcome & Overview
Introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule
Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary
Resources
f
ITAC

<
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Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
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Welcome & Overview
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Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule

Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary
Resources
Examples
Chemical Scenario Example - Brief summary of the chemical scenario [Word document]
Biological Scenario Example - Brief summary of the biological scenario [Word document]
Chemical Master Scenario Events List (MSEL) - Completed example for the chemical scenario [Word
document]
Biological Master Scenario Events List (MSEL) - Completed example for the biological scenario
[Word document]
Chemical Exercise Evaluation Guide (EEG) - Completed example for the chemical scenario [Word
document]
Biological Exercise Evaluation Guide (EEG) - Completed example for the biological scenario [Word
document]
Templates, Forms and Handouts
Player HandoutTemplate - A template for providing general information about an AP-FSE and the
benefits of participating [Word document]
Chemical Data Reporting Template-Template for reporting chemical data; includes some example
data [Excelspreadsheet]
Biological Data Reporting Template-Template for reporting biological data; includes some
example data [Excelspreadsheet]
Master Scenario Events List (MSEL) - A template for creating a MSEL [Worddocument]
Exercise Evaluation Guide (EEG) - A template for creating an EEG [Word document]
Organization Evaluation Form - A form to record issues, accomplishments, observed strengths and
opportunities for improvement. Each organization will compile input from participants within the
organization (i.e., one form per organization) [Worddocument]
Participant Feedback Form - A form that can be used to collect each individual participant's
feedbackon what aspects of the exercise worked well and what could be improved [Word document]
EvaluatorTraining Presentation Template - PowerPoint presentation template for training
evaluators that can be customized for each exercise [PowerPointslides]
ControllerTraining Presentation Template - PowerPoint presentation template for training
controllers that can be customized for each exercise [PowerPointslides]
After-Action Report Template - A template that can be used to create an after-action report,
including an improvement planning matrix [Word document]
Certificate of Appreciation Template - A template for creating certificates of appreciation for
exercise participants [PowerPointslide]
Roles and Responsibilities - a summary overview of exercise participant roles and responsibilities
[Word document]
Exercise Planning Schedule - An example schedule for planning and executing an AP-FSE [Word
document]
Incident Command Post (ICP) Supply List - A proposed list of supplies that a utility should plan to
have on hand in the case of a real or simulated emergency [Word document]
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Step 6: Documentation Step 7: Training
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Step 8: Exercise
Tools
Water Contaminant Information Tool (WCIT) - Online tool that provides information on chemical,
biological and radiological contaminants
Compendium of Environmental Testing Laboratories (Laboratory Compendium) - Online database
of environmental laboratories nationwide
Web-based Electronic Data Review (WebEDR) - Web-based tool that performs automated data
evaluation of Electronic Data Deliverables (EDDs)
SAM Query Tool - Online tool for identifying analytical methods for measuring target chemical,
radiochemical and biological analytes in environmental samples
Tabletop Exercise Tool for Water Systems: Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Climate
Resiliency (TTXTool) - Downloadable tool to help water utilities develop and conduct their own
TTXs involving emergency preparedness and response
How to Develop a Multi-YearTrainina & Exercise Plan - Provides information to help utilities to
develop a multi-year training and exercise plan
Water Quality Surveillance and Response System (SRS) Exercise Development Toolbox -Interactive
downloadable tool to aid in designing, developing, conducting and evaluating discussion-based
and operations-based exercises for an SRS
Accessing Laboratory Support - Interactive PDF that provides information on identifying
laboratories that can provide support in the event of a water contamination incident
Analytical Preparedness
Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
Step 2: Participants
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule

Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary
Method Information
Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM) - Analytical
methods selected by a technical workgroup representing multiple federal and state agencies for
analysis of environmental samples following a contamination incident
Water Contaminant Information Tool (WCIT) - Online database that includes analytical and field
testing methods for over 800 contaminants
Approved EPA Drinking Water Methods - Analytical methods for drinking water compliance
Solid Waste 846 Methods - Guidance documents for methods to use in responding to Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) -related sampling
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Step
Other Resources
Water Laboratory Alliance Response Plan (WLA-RP) - Process and procedures for coordinated
laboratory response to water contamination incidents that may require analytical support
WLA-RP Appendices - Word version of editable forms and checklists to support laboratory
response efforts; includes the Help Sheet for Requesting Analytical Support during an Emergency
Response (Appendix C) that provides prompts for the information that should be exchanged when
analytical support is first requested
WLATraininq Center - Collection of WLA training opportunities, including live events
Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network (WARN) - Intrastate networks of "utilities helping
utilities"to respond to and recover from emergencies by sharing resources
Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) - Provides a set of guiding principles
for exercise programs, as well as a recommended approach for exercise program management,
design, development, conduct, evaluation and improvement planning
EPA Regional Laboratory Directors - Maintain relationships with laboratories throughout their
respective regions
ERLN/WLA Helpline - Assists in identifying potential analytical support laboratories
• Call the ERLN/WLA Helpline at (703) 461-2400, Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM ET, except
for federal holidays.
• Email the WLA Team atWLA@epa.gov
• Email the ERLN team at ERLNHelpdesk@csra.com.
Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) Template for I aboratories -Template to help drinking water
and wastewater laboratories create a COOP
PRINT ALL PRINTTHIS SECTION
Sampling Guidance for Unknown Contaminants in Drinking Water - Guidance for biological,
chemical and radiochemical sample collection, preservation and transport procedures for the
detection and identification of potential contaminants in drinking water
Fact Sheets
Water I aboratorv Alliance (Wl A)
Water I aboratorv Alliance: A Drinking Water Utility Perspective
Water Contaminant Information Tool (WCIT): A Robust Tool for the Water Sector
Water I aboratorv Alliance Response Plan (Wl A-RP)
Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) Template for I aboratories
Environmental Response I aboratorv Network (FRI N) Overview
Environmental Response I aboratorv Network (FRI N) Web-based Electronic Data Review (WebFDR)
Reimbursement Tips for Fmergencv I aboratorv Support
Compendium of Environmental Testing I aboratories (1 aboratorv Compendium)
CLICK HERETO DOWNLOAD
PRINT ONLY VERSION
of the AP-FSE TOOLKIT
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Full-Scale Exercise (AP-FSE) Toolkit
Welcome & Overview
Hnmp
Introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule
1 1 \J I 1 1 w
Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary
aa
/
Glossary &
Acronym List
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Introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule

Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary
Glossary & Acronym List
AAR
AP-FSE
ASR
Appendix C
CDC
COC
COOP
Debrief
EDD
EEG
EOC
EOP
EPA
After-Action Report
Analytical Preparedness Full-Scale Exercise
Analytical Services Requester
Help Sheet for Requesting Analytical Support during an Emergency
Response from the Water Laboratory Alliance Response Plan
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Chain of Custody
Continuity of Operations Plan
A facilitated discussion that provides each organization an
opportunity to provide detailed feedback to the exercise planning
team. Topics may include the level of satisfaction with the exercise,
issues or concerns, and proposed improvements. Information from the
debrief can be used to prepare for the Hot Wash.
Electronic Data Deliverable
Exercise Evaluation Guide
Emergency Operations Center
Emergency Operations Plan
Environmental Protection Agency
ERLN
FBI
FSE
Hot Wash
HSEEP
ICP
ICS
IP
Environmental Response Laboratory Network
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Full-Scale Exercise
A facilitated discussion held after the exercise to capture feedback
about any issues, concerns or proposed improvements to the exercise
Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program
Incident Command Post
Incident Command System
Improvement Plan
Laboratory Compendium Compendium of Environmental Testing Laboratories
LIMS
Laboratory Information Management System
MSEL
Master Scenario Events List
NHSRC
National Homeland Security Research Center
NIMS
National Incident Management System
Notional
Exercise steps that are presented as background information but are

not actually carried out by exercise players
OEM
Office of Environmental Management
Note: Definitions are intended to be consistent with HSEEP
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Introduction
Step 1: Initiate
Step 2: Participants
Step 3: Objectives
Step 4: Scenario
Step 5: Schedule

Step 6: Documentation
Step 7: Training
Step 8: Exercise
Step 9: Hot Wash
Step 10: Follow-Up
Resources
Glossary
Participant
PIO
Players
POC
QA
RCRA
SAM
SimCell
SOP
SRS
TTX
WARN
WCIT
WebEDR
WLA
WLA-RP
Includes all exercise planners, players, controllers and evaluators
involved in conducting an exercise
Public Information Officer
Perform their regular roles and responsibilities during the exercise in
order to respond to or recover from the risks and hazards presented by
the scenario
Point of Contact
Quality Assurance
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and
Recovery
Simulation Cell
Standard Operating Procedure
Surveillance and Response System
Tabletop Exercise
Water/Waste water Agency Response Network
Water Contaminant Information Tool
Web-based Electronic Data Review
Water Laboratory Alliance
Water Laboratory Alliance Response Plan
Note: Definitions are intended to be consistent with HSEEP
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