The IAB, which was founded in October 1998, consists of officials from various local, State, and Federal government organizations. The IAB's responsibility is to ensure standardization and interoperability of equipment (and the research and development of advanced technologies) needed by first responders in establishing and maintaining a strong crisis and consequences management capability. The IAB has six subgroups, each chaired by an emergency responder. These subgroups meet at various times throughout the year to discuss equipment issues. The subgroups focus on medical equipment, personal protective and operational equipment, advanced technology, interoperable communications and information systems, detection and decontamination equipment, and standards designed to ensure that response equipment and technology are integrated in the existing standards, boards, and regulatory bodies. The IAB recently held a meeting to update a listing of equipment for use by first responders in the event of a Weapons-of-Mass-Destruction incident. The standardized Equipment List (SEL) is expected to be released in April 2000. A list of members of the IAB is provided.