NBC protection: federal government creates exchange platform

The task of NBC protection is to protect the population, animals, the environment and property from nuclear (A), biological (B) and chemical (C) hazards and threats. NBC protection includes all measures to prevent the release of hazardous substances and to minimize the effects of such events. According to a Communication of the federal government, NBC protection has become more complex and confusing in recent years.

More complex hazards

An assessment by the Swiss Security Association (PP SVS) now shows that Switzerland is basically well positioned in NBC protection in terms of the legal basis, and that the structures, processes and instruments are also intact. However, the large number of hazardous substances, scenarios and actors poses an increasing challenge for NBC protection.

In some areas, the analysis revealed significant information deficits among the stakeholders involved. This is now to be countered with the creation of an exchange platform. The APAPC (ABC of the Confederation) body would form the missing counterpart at federal level to the already existing ABC coordination platform of the cantons (KPABC).

The missing link is intended to improve overall coordination in Swiss NBC protection and close an existing gap in NBC protection. The Federal Office for Civil Protection (FOCP) has been commissioned to implement the exchange platform. Under the lead of the FOCP, a performance profile of the civil defense in the NBC area is to be developed, also with the participation of the cantons.

Source: Bund/Editorial