Defining the Attributes of a CBRN Human Response Model: Findings and Conclusions

Abstract : A human response model, also known as a casualty estimation model, is usually one component of a larger suite of models. For our purposes, the human response model is used to estimate the number of people who may be expected to require medical treatment, as well as the number of anticipated fatalities due to the insult over time resulting in personnel exposed to some event involving Chemical, Biological, Radiological, or Nuclear (CBRN) agents (or influenza). There are currently several different models and methodologies for estimating human response. Thus, the goal of a coordinated human response model is to provide a single model that can be used by planners and responders at all levels (both military and civilian), so that every user can expect to get a similar answer for the same question. This paper summarizes the model attributes - users and uses, inputs, outputs, time, and methodology - desired by a sample user community representing both the military and civilian sectors at all levels and proposes next steps for developing the requirements for a consolidated human response model.