Realistic Chemical Leak and Disaster Drill Conducted at Izmir Alsancak Port
A massive health and disaster drill featuring a chemical leak and explosion scenario was successfully completed at Alsancak Port in Izmir within the framework of TAMP.
Under the coordination of the Izmir Provincial Directorate of Health and within the framework of the Turkey Disaster Response Plan, a comprehensive health and disaster drill featuring a chemical leak and explosion scenario was conducted at Alsancak Port.
Scope of the Drill
Organized under the coordination of the Izmir Provincial Directorate of Health within the framework of the Turkey Disaster Response Plan, the Health Disaster Working Group Field Drill was carried out at Alsancak Port with the participation of a total of 100 personnel and 15 vehicles.
Participating Institutions
UMKE, AFAD, Coast Guard, port authority, customs directorate, fire department, and operational units supported the drill, which was held within the scope of the 2026 Activity Plan approved by the Ministry of Health General Directorate of Emergency Health Services.
Explosion According to the Scenario
According to the scenario, smoke and gas leaks occurred when a container carrying an ammonia-derivative chemical substance dropped, followed by an explosion that created a panic environment inside the port.
Intervention by Teams
While the fire department dispatched to the scene upon notification extinguished the flames, AFAD CBRN teams subjected the people affected by the gas to decontamination procedures and handed them over to UMKE personnel.
Evacuation of the Injured
Out of 24 affected individuals, six were transferred via land ambulances and two via Coast Guard boats by sea, and they were transported to Izmir City Hospital and Ege University Hospital.
Emphasis on Joint Work
Dr. Ali Özbudak, Head of Izmir Provincial Emergency Health Services, stated that with these drills organized every year, they aim to measure the disaster capacity of institutions and increase their joint working power.