SIMSBURY, CT — Connecticut State Police suspended all live firearms exercises at their Firearms Training Unit on Nod Road after potential elevated lead exposure was identified, prompting immediate health and safety protocols.
The shutdown, effective April 4, was announced as a “Safety Standdown,” affecting all operations at the Simsbury facility.
Officials said the move is precautionary and designed to evaluate occupational health risks associated with lead in firearms training environments.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will carry out a site consultation to assess the facility.
Simultaneously, voluntary occupational health screenings will be made available to employees currently stationed at the training unit.
In response to the findings, the agency will also begin employee training focused on mitigating risks from airborne lead and noise exposure. These sessions will address both immediate health concerns and longer-term exposure protocols.
Authorities confirmed that additional risk reduction strategies will be reviewed and applied to the training environment as necessary. This includes examining air quality and safety equipment used at the range.
The Connecticut State Police did not provide a timeline for resuming live training operations. Until further notice, training will be limited to non-live-fire instruction and alternative locations when applicable.
