The last chemical munition in the declared U.S. stockpile was destroyed July 7, 2023. The facilities are in the closure phase and are following procedures outlined in U.S. Public Law and the relevant environmental permits. Please visit https://www.peoacwa.army.mil/pcapp/ for the most recent information.
The Pueblo Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant (PCAPP) is safely destroying the chemical weapons stored at the U.S. Army Pueblo Chemical Depot. The hiring and training of the workforce is one of the project’s top priorities. The PCAPP Training Facility at the Pueblo Memorial Airport Industrial Park offers a venue for PCAPP employees to receive the best possible training to ensure their own safety and that of the community and the environment.
A Specialized Facility
The PCAPP Training Facility was renovated to meet the specific requirements for rigorous chemical weapons destruction training. Several areas of the training facility provide environments similar to those in which staff work. For example, one classroom is designed to allow workers to engage with the control system used by operators to monitor PCAPP operations. Operators trained on this equipment practice start-up and shut-down activities, as well as how to respond to emergency or unexpected conditions. The facility also includes first-of-a-kind equipment that is employed at PCAPP. Simulated munitions are used for maintenance training on the Projectile/Mortar Disassembly system, the Munitions Washout System’s Improved Cavity Access Machines and Lift Assists. Static displays of munitions monitoring equipment and parts monitoring equipment are also available to aid in training exercises.
Demilitarization Protective Ensemble (DPE) training is a key course provided by the facility. Many site workers need to be prepared to perform tasks wearing DPE, which includes an encapsulated air-supplied chemical protective suit operating at positive pressure. As vision and mobility are restricted when wearing DPE, trainees practice on the facility’s staircase and mezzanine to learn how to manage air hoses. Additionally, three airlock rooms allow trainees wearing DPE to master the complexities of entering and exiting the rooms.
Maintenance workers and munitions handlers are trained to enter potentially contaminated areas. The training simulation includes workers donning appropriate gear along with medical staff practicing screening and monitoring.
More than 120 courses are offered at the training facility to prepare workers for the unique roles they will encounter in the chemical weapons destruction process. Training courses such as CPR, first aid and fall protection ensure every worker is prepared and ready to deal with emergency and safety situations.
Interested stakeholders and job seekers may explore PCAPP career opportunities at pueblo.bechtel.com.