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SEL Number: 07ED-01-IMOB
Title: Trace Detector, Explosive, Handheld


Last Updated: 6/23/2022 3:18:05 PM

Previous SEL Number: 07ED-01-IMOB

Description: Handheld trace explosive detectors using air-sampling, particulate sampling, or dual mode operation. Underlying technologies include Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS), Differential Ion Mobility Spectrometry (DMS), Mass Spectrometry (MS), Fluorescence, etc. This item replaces item 07ED-01-SNIF.
DIQCode: [D,I]


ImportantFeatures: May operate in vapor detection (sniffing) mode, particulate (swipe) mode, or have a user-selectable mode switch.

Operating Considerations: IMS offers good sensitivity and selectivity at very quick speeds. However, some IMS systems have unacceptably high false-positive rates, especially in the presence of organophosphate pesticides, and suffer interference when exposed to burning diesel fuels and AFFF (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam).
Some devices contain radioactive sources. Devices with radioactive sources require periodic wipe tests and have associated licensing and transportation issues.
Consider warm up time, which is a minimum of 10 minutes and can be longer than 20 minutes.
Most equipment of this type must be operated at least weekly to maintain calibration and operational effectiveness. See manufacturer's recommendations.
Consider battery life and availability of batteries.
Unit may require a significant recycle time after a positive detection with a rich sample.
Note that vapor detection mode will NOT detect all explosives - most military explosives do not have sufficient vapor pressure for sniff detection, and must be detected from particulates.
Consider false positives and negatives.
IMS ICostRating: $$$
IMS MCostRating: $$
Insufficient data on DMS products for ICost and MCost ratings.


Training Requirements: Core Training: NFPA 470 Chapter 8 or Chapter 10.
Initial Training: Moderate (1-2 days)
Sustainment Training: Moderate (1-2 days)


Mandatory Standards:

Applicable Standards and References:


MSSL:
  • Law Enforcement: Bomb Squad
  • REL: Full Canadian Recommended Equipment List
  • REL: LOS-1, Multi-Agency Intervention
  • REL: LOS-2, Scout/Reconnaissance Mission
  • REL: LOS-3, Suspicious Powder Response