Operational analysis framework for emergency operations center preparedness training

As the US Department of Homeland Security works to create an integrated emergency response system, it is evident that computer-based solutions can support this process. Individual commercial simulation packages and databases can provide a partial solution, but are not easily integrated to provide a comprehensive analysis of the events. To achieve model and domain knowledge integration, an analysis framework is developed to allow a broad range of simulation systems to share information, including inputs, models, and results. This analysis framework facilitates the combination of standalone scenarios into one master scenario where the overall chain-of-events can be analyzed and optimized. This paper describes a framework used in the simulation of an anthrax incident. The simulation modeled State, City, and Department of Health EOC processes executed under the incident command system (ICS). Hospital and distribution center models were integrated to add the effects and impact of the general population into the scenario.