GSE's Participation in Airport Emergency Drills

I participated in an emergency response drill yesterday at Logan Airport here in Boston. Around a hundred people participated from all levels of airline and airport management, in addition to police, fire, and Red Cross representatives.  Also present were officials from state and local agencies responsible for emergency response, as well as representatives from area hospitals.  Basically a who’s who of organizations and individuals who would respond in the event of an incident, accident or natural disaster were present.  Even officials from the ASPCA were there to ensure procedures were in place to aid animals in distress.   The purpose of the drill is to practice emergency response in the event of an incident or accident or natural disaster.  It is also a good opportunity to network with others on the airport, so that cooperation is enhanced when a real emergency occurs.  (An actual emergency is not a good time to be exchanging business cards.)   While one airline had representatives from their ground handling operation, none of the ground handling companies at Logan participated.  I made it a point to check, because I was concerned that they should have been given the opportunity to participate.  Everyone on the airport needs to know what the emergency procedures are at their airport and be prepared in the event of an emergency.  I have been assured that ground handlers will be specifically invited for the next drill.    If any companies out there do not participate in their airport’s emergency drills, I strongly urge you to do so.