NCJ Number
214633
Journal
Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine Volume: 30 Issue: 5 Dated: May 2006 Pages: 26-28,30
Date Published
May 2006
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the role of the bomb squad technician and the expectations of the job as an effective hazardous devices team member.
Abstract
Working as a bomb technician can be a very rewarding and fulfilling experience. The risks are great and the hours are longer than being a patrolman. It is a pivotal role in the war on terrorism with a front row seat to some of the most secretive and interesting training and incidents one could imagine. Individuals that respond to, identify, and dispose of bombs are divided into three categories: military, public safety, and UXO (UnExploded Ordnance). A UXO technician searches for and clears ordnances left behind on current and former government bomb ranges. Military Explosive Ordnance Disposal (IED) technicians handle IEDs and ordnance on Department of Defense property, as well as non-Department of Defense property. Public safety bomb technicians handle IEDs that are found on Department of Defense property and routinely destroy old and unserviceable ammunition, commercial explosives, and fireworks. This article assists in providing a better understanding on what the bomb squad is about and what a prospective candidate or technician may go through in order to work as part of an effective hazardous devices team which includes common misconceptions, expectations, and conducting a self-evaluation.