Department of Homeland Security officials recently simulated the release of airborne contaminants in Boston's subway system, known locally as the 'T.' The exercise aimed to gauge how the air flows in order to be ready in the event of a real security incident. Public explanationA scientist with a team of investigators for the Department of Homeland Security explains how a simulated chemical attack will take place throughout the subway system in Boston as part of a test on airflow.Through the tunnelsThe team is investigating how chemical or biological contaminants released into the air would travel through the subway system’s underground tunnel network.Securing ridersUnderstanding how substances travel through the subway’s five lines will help the MBTA Transit Police fine tune evacuation plans to protect the subway’s more than 1.3 million daily ridersGas monitorsAbout 40 gas samplers and more than 25 particle counters placed throughout the underground system monitored the concentration of the tracer gases and particles. Weather effectsEquipment measures how hot, humid summer weather impacts the movement of airborne material. Tests were also conducted in winter to gauge temperature, humidity and other weather factors.Analyzing contaminant travelMonitoring and tracking equipment analyzes gas and concentrations, giving scientists an idea of how the chemicals travel and how quickly they disperse. New plans may save livesData will be shared with first responders who can use them in devising evacuation plans for riders, as well as to adjust ventilation, and modify train movements after an attack or accidental release. Related content feature Top cybersecurity M&A deals for 2023 Fears of recession, rising interest rates, mass tech layoffs, and conservative spending trends are likely to make dealmakers cautious, but an ever-increasing need to defend against bigger and faster attacks will likely keep M&A activity steady in By CSO Staff Sep 22, 2023 24 mins Mergers and Acquisitions Mergers and Acquisitions Mergers and Acquisitions brandpost Unmasking ransomware threat clusters: Why it matters to defenders Similar patterns of behavior among ransomware treat groups can help security teams better understand and prepare for attacks By Joan Goodchild Sep 21, 2023 3 mins Cybercrime news analysis China’s offensive cyber operations support “soft power” agenda in Africa Researchers track Chinese cyber espionage intrusions targeting African industrial sectors. By Michael Hill Sep 21, 2023 5 mins Advanced Persistent Threats Cyberattacks Critical Infrastructure brandpost Proactive OT security requires visibility + prevention You cannot protect your operation by simply watching and waiting. It is essential to have a defense-in-depth approach. By Austen Byers Sep 21, 2023 4 mins Security Podcasts Videos Resources Events SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER From our editors straight to your inbox Get started by entering your email address below. Please enter a valid email address Subscribe