Laboratory Network for Chemical Terrorism
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Laboratory Response Network (LRN)
- LRN Home
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- Improving Public Health Lab Infrastructure
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- Network for Chemical Terrorism
- Examples of LRN in Action
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Related Resources
- Fact Sheet: Facts About LRN
- Presentation: Overview of LRN
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PowerPoint version (3.17 MB) - Lab Information page
Sixty-two state, territorial and metropolitan public health laboratories are members of the chemical component of the Laboratory Response Network (LRN). A designation of Level 1, 2, or 3 identifies laboratory capabilities and define member network participation. (Please note that the level designations were changed in early 2005 so that laboratories previously designated “Level 1” are now “Level 3,” and laboratories previously designated “Level 3” are now “Level 1.”)
Level 3 Laboratories
Although every network member participates in Level 3 activities, only 15 laboratories are designated as Level 3 laboratories. These 15 laboratories work with hospitals and other first responders within their jurisdiction to maintain competency in clinical specimen collection, storage, and shipment
Level 2 Laboratories
Thirty-seven labs are designated as Level 2 laboratories. Chemists in these laboratories are trained to detect exposure to a number of toxic chemical agents. Analysis of cyanide, nerve agents, and toxic metals in human samples are examples of Level 2 activities.
Level 1 Laboratories
Ten laboratories currently participate in Level 1 activities. These laboratories, which serve as surge-capacity laboratories for CDC, are able to detect not only the toxic chemical agents that Level 2 laboratories can detect but also can detect exposure to an expanded number of chemicals, including mustard agents, nerve agents, and other toxic industrial chemicals.
Page last modified November 01, 2006