Program for response options and Technology enhancement against Chemical/Biological Terrorism (PROTECT) and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority

A partnership was formed in 1999, between the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority and several Federal agencies to include the U.S. Departments of Energy (DOE), Justice (DOJ), and Transportation (DOT) to advance the efforts to improve the safety and security of the Metrorail system against chemical or biological terrorism.

The federal partners and several National laboratories offered installation direction and testing of the chemical sensor system. WMATA is utilizing a sensor system designed to act as an early warning system to safeguard first responders, employees, and customers on its subway system. WMATA is the first transit property in the United States to implement a strategic test program of this nature.

The chemical detection system is performing to specifications. The system will be expanded throughout the Metrorail system to add additional technology as it becomes available.

In addition to the PROTECT system, the Metro Transit Police Department has provided small, devices to its officers that they can wear in the Metrorail system that detect radiation. The devices notify the officer of the presence of radiation so further investigation may be employed. The department has also deployed hand held radiation sensor equipment to its specialized units.