Tabletop exercises are table-based activities typically held in an informal setting and
presented by the Facilitator. There is no hands-on practice or field work. This type of
exercise is intended to generate discussion of various issues regarding a hypothetical,
simulated emergency. Tabletops can be used to enhance general awareness, validate
plans and procedures, rehearse concepts, and/or assess the types of systems needed
to guide the prevention of, protection from, mitigation of, response to, and recovery from
a defined incident.
Delivered in a low-stress environment, the tabletop exercise offers participants the
opportunity to explore different ideas in the context of a real-world scenario. All
participants are encouraged to contribute to the discussion and be reminded they
are making decisions in a “no-fault” environment.