Responder Knowledge Database: on overlook asset

For those in the emergency response business who tire of waiting for their HSDW to learn about the latest in equipment and grants, we have a solution for you: the Responder Knowledge Base (RKB) sponsored by DHS and the National Memorial Institute for the Prevention of Terrorism. Organized into two sections — the Authorized Equipment List from DHS’s Office of Grants & Training and the Standardized Equipment List from the InterAgency Board for Equipment Standardization and Interoperability — the Web-based system is searchable by subject and product. Those interested in grants will find will find detailed application instruction; those looking for products will also find detailed information and will also be pleased to find information about third-party equipment certifications. For example, typing “hepa” into the keyword search returns sixty-five results, the first ten of which indicate such seals of approval. Then, when one clicks on “Disposable Particulate Respirator,” a picture of the item and specifics about the equipment and its manufacturer appear alongside links to the NIOSH certification page, which in turn links to relevent statutory standards.