Simulation of a CBRNE attack under the HOTHREAT project

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On June 6, 2025, armed terrorists stormed the Training and Conference Centre of the University of Lodz (CSK) at Kopcińskiego Street, took a hostage, and dispersed an unidentified chemical substance. The exercise was organized by the Biohazard Prevention Centre of the University of Lodz, in cooperation with the Regional Police Headquarters in Lodz and Safety Core sp. z o.o., as part of the Hothreat project.

The drill consisted of two main components:

  • Facility staff response in the event of a terrorist attack,
  • Emergency service response to a terrorist incident involving CBRNE agents.

The following units took part in the exercise:

  • Regional Police Headquarters in Lodz,
  • Independent Counter-Terrorism Subdivision of the Regional Police Headquarters in Lodz,
  • Police Prevention Unit in Lodz,
  • Municipal Police Headquarters in Lodz,
  • Other participating units, including officers from JRG4 – the Specialized Chemical Rescue Group of the Municipal Headquarters of the State Fire Service in Lodz.

Such exercises are vital for improving CBRNE emergency preparedness, coordination between services, and ensuring the safety of both facility staff and the general public.

 

We invite you to visit the website and social media of the Regional Police Headquarters in Lodz:

https://www.facebook.com/policja.lodzkie/videos/1765315250863454

https://lodzka.policja.gov.pl/ld/informacje/108492,Hotel-25-wspolne-cwiczenia-policji-i-uniwersytetu-lodzkiego.html

https://www.instagram.com/p/DKtpJkSsfs4/

And to watch the video of the exercise:

Hotel – 25, wspólne ćwiczenia policji i uniwersytetu łódzkiego

 

 

Training and Validation Visit at Aphrodite Hills Resort

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On 11 April 2025, experts from the Biohazard Prevention Centre of Faculty Biology and Environmental Protection of the University of Lodz, Sigoria, and Dynamic Safety Corporation, in collaboration with Aphrodite Hills Resort, conducted a comprehensive training session and validation visit for hotel staff in Kouklia, Cyprus, as part of the HOTHREAT project.

Aphrodite Hills Resort is a world-renowned, multi-award-winning destination for golf, leisure, and luxury living. The resort features the 5-star Aphrodite Hills Hotel by Atlantica, offering 290 rooms set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, with a wide range of restaurants, pools, and sports and leisure facilities.

The event included an introductory training session on CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) threats, focusing on prevention strategies and response procedures in the event of a terrorist attack. Participants also received hands-on training in the use of the Augmented Reality (AR) System and mobile CBRN application, designed to support hotel staff in managing CBRN emergency situations.

Hotel managers, security personnel, technical teams, and food services staff took part in an interactive simulation of a CBRN incident, allowing them to test and enhance their practical skills using innovative tools developed within the HOTHREAT project.

Feedback on the usability and effectiveness of the IT solutions and other security measures was collected and will play an important role in further refinement of the project’s outcomes.

 

 

Meeting with Hospitality Sector

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On 10th April, a promotional meeting with Hospitality Sector members was held in Nicosia, Cyprus.

The aim of the meeting was to discuss challenges related to safety and security in the tourism industry and to explore how the project’s results could support this area.

The meeting was opened by Annita Dimitriadou. Additionally, representatives from the Cyprus Police and Fire Brigade shared their insights and experiences, emphasizing the importance of cooperation with the HoReCa sector. The topics covered during the meeting are of particular importance to Cyprus, which hosted over 4 million tourists last year and for which the tourism industry accounts for around 13-15% of its Gross Domestic Product.

📢 Speakers:
▪️ Annita Dimitriadou – Deputy Ministry of Tourism of Cyprus
▪️ Andreas Christofi, Fire chief – Cyprus Fire Service
▪️ Perseas Koutrouzas, Lieutenant – Cyprus Police
▪️ PhD, Prof. Michał Bijak – University of Lodz, Poland
▪️ Maksymilian Stela – CBRN expert, Poland
▪️ PhD Sebastian Kawczyński – CEO, Sigoria Security Solutions (Sigoria Sp. z o.o.), Poland

The meeting was organized by Nicosia Tourism Board, Center for Social Innovation – CSI and the University of Lodz.

Hosted by the City of Nicosia.

 

 

UniLodz delagation at Nova Gorica, Slovenia

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The HOTHREAT project team is present at the Final Demo Event of the Horizon Project SAFE-CITIES    in Gorica on 26-27th March 2025.

The presented Safe Cities tools are innovative and useful for increasing the protection of public places. The developed solutions focuses on applying new technologies in Vulnerability Assessment, Security Management and Simulation of threat scenarios.

The event is a great opportunity for sharing good practices and networking with experts and stakeholders in the field of public security. Project has brought together law enforcement agencies, local authorities, and industry experts to enhance the protection of public spaces.

First CHEMICAL WEAPONS EXERCISE in Europe at ATIRAM hotels

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On 13 – 16 January, Atiram Hotels in Barcelona hosted Europe’s first large scale training and simulation of a chemical attack in a hotel infrastructure. The exercise is part of the EU-founded HOTHREAT project, which aims to enhance the security of hotels and conference centers in the context of #CBRN threats.

🔸 More than 100 people attended events!
Including the Catalan Services: the MOSSOS D`ESQUADRA, the Guàrdia Urbana, the Medical Emergency Service, the Civil Defense, the red cross RED Cross, the employees of the ATIRAM hotel chain, ISEM Institute, Center for Security Studies (KEMEA), Instituto Nacional de Técnica Aeroespacial «Esteban Terradas», as well as representatives of the Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection of the University of Lodz – Biohazard Prevention Centre, acting as coordinator of the project at the European level.

🔸 What was the scenario of the exercise?
The simulation depicted a situation in which a hazardous chemical is released from a backpack left outside the room door during a VIP visit to the hotel. The task of the hotel staff was to quickly recognize the danger, secure the site, and then carry out procedures related to evacuation and securing the injured.

It is worth mentioning that the role of the VIP was played by Mr. Joan Gaspart – President of the Barcelona football club in 2000-2003.

Thanks to organizers, experts and participants!

Events were widely covered by Spanish media:

https://www.catalunyapress.cat/article/barcelona/2025-01-15/5138823-serveis-demergncies-simulen-atac-quimic-hotel-barcelona

https://www.elperiodico.com/es/sucesos/20250115/servicios-emergencia-simularan-ataque-nuclear-hotel-barcelona-pedralbes-113406341

https://beteve.cat/societat/simulacre-mossos-atac-nuclear-quimic-hotel-pedralbes/

https://www.20minutos.es/noticia/5672603/0/los-servicios-emergencias-realizan-este-miercoles-un-simulacro-ataque-nuclear-radiologico-biologico-quimico-barcelona/

https://www.abc.es/espana/simulacro-barcelona-ante-posible-ataque-quimico-minimizar-20250115190306-vi.html?ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F

 

 

How to recognize and respond to Biological Threats?

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Biological threats differ from chemical attacks as their effects often manifest after a delay, depending on the pathogen’s incubation period.
Early detection is critical, as timely recognition by healthcare professionals can significantly reduce the health impacts of an attack.

Initially, diseases caused by a biological attack may resemble common illnesses like influenza. However, specific indicators can suggest an intentional event:
·        Unusual Number of Cases: A sudden increase in cases of rare or unexpected diseases, which deviates from historical patterns or normal incidence rates.
·        Unexpected Geographic Spread: Cases emerging in unlikely areas or rapidly spreading to multiple locations.
·        Atypical Symptoms: Symptoms that are unusually severe or do not align with typical disease characteristics.
·        Rapid Case Increase: A significant spike in cases over a short period.
·        Association with Specific Events or Locations: Cases linked to mass gatherings, confined spaces, or specific geographic areas.
·        Presence of Multiple Pathogens: Uncommon combinations of pathogens suggest a possible deliberate release.

These new guidelines are set to improve awareness and management strategies regarding transmission risks, with full details available soon in the document “D.3.3 Guidelines for epidemiological enquiry”

The guideline concerns food protection developed by (UniLodz) Uniwersytet Łódzki, National Institute of Aerospace Technology, Polícia de Segurança Pública, Polaris (DoubleTree by Hilton), Centrum Konferencyjno-Szkoleniowe Hotel Boss***, Atiram Hotels, Center for Security Studies (KEMEA)

Photo: Adobe Stock

New Guidelines on – Transmission Routes and Entry Points for Infectious Agents

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How can transmission occur❓

Transmission can occur through one or more of the following channels:
– Airborne: Transmission via inhaling aerosol particles emitted by an infected person while coughing, talking, singing, or through general atmospheric dispersal of microbial aerosols.
– Contact: This includes both direct contact with infected persons or animals and indirect contact with contaminated surfaces or materials.
– Vertical: Transmission from mother to child, typically in utero or through bodily fluids exchanged during childbirth.
– Vector Transmission: Spread through insect bites, such as those from infected mosquitoes, ticks, or mites.
– Foodborne and/or Waterborne: Consumption of contaminated food or water, which may introduce infectious agents.

Routes of Entry into the Human Body 🚺
According to CDC guidelines, infectious agents can enter the human body through several primary routes:
– Cutaneous and associated mucous membranes
– Digestive mucosal route
– Eye and Conjunctival route
– Urogenital route
– Respiratory route
– Parenteral route

These new guidelines are set to improve awareness and management strategies regarding transmission risks, with full details available soon in the document “D.3.3 Guidelines for epidemiological enquiry”.

The guideline concerns food protection developed by (UniLodz) Uniwersytet Łódzki, National Institute of Aerospace Technology, Polícia de Segurança Pública, Polaris (DoubleTree by Hilton), Hotel Boss Warszawa, Atiram Hotels, Center for Security Studies (KEMEA).

Photo: Adobe Stock

HOTHREAT project consortium work in progress

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The 3rd HOTHREAT Consortium Meeting is in progress at the Center for Security Studies (KEMEA) in Athens, Greece.

Project partners are actively discussing the project’s advancements and planning for upcoming CBRNe trainings and exercises.

HOTHREAT at SECURITY FORUM

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MOSSOS D`ESQUADRA promoted HOTHREAT at SECURITY FORUM in June

MOSSOS D`ESQUADRA took part in the conference presenting 👉 “The participation of the Mossos d’Esquadra in European Projects”

The forum typically features a mix of exhibitions, presentations, and panel discussions, providing a platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and showcasing the latest innovations and solutions in security technology and practices.

 

HOTHREAT – Tailored CBRNe protection measures for hotels and conference centers.

CBRN EuropeanCommission ISF InternalSecurityFund

HOTHREAT at #UNVEX’24

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In June Hothreat participated in the event UNVEX’24

This event focused on unmaned systems and technologies, which brings professionals, companies and stakeholders from various sectros (defense, security and civil applications). Helds exhibitions, conferences and workshops, networking opportunities, live demonstrations.

 

See you next time!

 

HOTHREAT – Tailored CBRNe protection measures for hotels and conference centers.

security CBRN EuropeanCommission ISF InternalSecurityFund

 

 

 

Training for Polish State Fire Service in Spała, Poland

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We keep training all the time!

Training was conducted on 17-19th June in Spała, Poland for Municipal Headquarters of the State Fire Service of Łódź (Komenda Miejska Państwowej Straży Pożarnej w Łodzi) and Municipal Headquarters of the State Fire Service of Piotrków Trybunalski on:

☣ CBRN threats
☣ detection and identification techniques,
☣ operating in contaminated areas – specifically in hotels and conference centers
☣ cooperation with hotels on notification, evacuation, pre-decontamination, organization of evacuation and decontamination points.

 

 

Inspection visits for safety improvements

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Over the six months of the HOTHREAT project, we have already conducted 6 inspection visits for safety improvements!

The visits were carried out by our experts and were aiming at:

  • find effective solutions (best practices) that enhance the effectiveness of deterrence, prevention, detection, and response to CBRNe threats,
  • identify gaps in the security system and the resulting needs,
  • identify vulnerable points susceptible to potential attacks,
  • gather necessary data to develop appropriate recommendations.

Our experts have paid special attention to, among other things:

  • interviewing the employees responsible for the management and security of the facility during its daily operation and conferences,
  • checking the structure of the hotel in terms of its vulnerability to CBRN threats,
  • analysis of the location of security services and their skills in case of CBRN incidents,
  • overall assessment of the security and safety system,
  • analysis of the security structure and its efficiency in terms of their effectiveness in CBRN incidents response,
  • identification of possible threats.

The visits were conducted in hotels and training centers in Warsaw, Lodz (Poland), Barcelona, Valecia (Spain), Kouklia (Cyprus) in the facilities of the project partners: BOSS Hotel, DoubleTree by Hilton Warsaw, University of Lodz Training and Conference Center, Atiram Hotels Barcelona and Dimar Hotel,

 

 

The first Kick Off meeting

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The HOTHREAT project was established in June 2023. On July 12-13, the first Kick Off meeting was held at the Boss Hotel, which is one of the project’s partners.

The project HOTHREAT (Tailored CBRNe protection measures for hotels and conference centres) aims to reduce risks related to possible terrorist attack targeted at hotels and conference spaces with the use of Chemical, Biological, Radiological or Nuclear agents (CBRN).

The project consortium consisting of 18 partners from 8 EU countries (Poland, Slovakia, Spain, Greece, Romania, Cyprus, Italy and Portugal) and leaded by the University of Lodz could be divided into three groups:

  • Research, expertise, technology (University of Lodz, Dynamic Safety Corporation, Safety Core, International Security and Emergency Management Institute, National Institute of Aerospace Technology, Center for Security Studies, Konngruent, Sigoria Security Solutions, Center for Social Innovation and Fundazione SAFE-EUROPE);
  • Hotels and conference centre sector (Polaris Hospitality Enterprises, ATIRAM Hotels, Aphrodite Hills Resort, Hotel Boss, Nicosia Tourist Board and University of Lodz);
  • Law enforcement agencies (Police from Portugal, Greece and Poland).

The Kick Off meeting was opened by the Project Coordinator, dr hab. Michał Bijak, prof. of UL,. who described aims and goals of the project and synergies between other projects conducted by Biohazard Prevention Centre at University of Lodz.

The importance of the very first technical step of the project – identification of gaps and end-users needs was underlined.