Explosives Trace Detection and Alarm Resolution Flashcards

What detection technology do most ETD units at airport checkpoints use to identify explosive residue?

Answer: Ion mobility spectrometry

Most checkpoint ETD units use ion mobility spectrometry, which separates ionized sample molecules by how fast they drift through an electric field.

Why does an officer change gloves before swabbing a new passenger's property after an ETD alarm?

Answer: To prevent cross-contamination between screenings

Fresh gloves stop trace residue from a previous item or person being carried onto the next sample and causing a false alarm.

A passenger's laptop alarms on ETD. What is the officer's most appropriate next step?

Answer: Follow alarm resolution procedures and notify a supervisor as required

An ETD alarm has to be resolved through the set procedures, including supervisor notification; it can't be dismissed or cleared by re-swabbing over and over.

Which everyday product is commonly linked to ETD alarms that turn out to be non-threats?

Answer: Some hand lotions and glycerin-based products

Glycerin-containing lotions and some cosmetics can cause ETD alarms because their chemistry resembles certain explosive-related compounds.

Before an ETD unit is used to screen at the start of a shift, what normally has to happen?

Answer: The unit must pass its required verification or calibration check

ETD units must pass manufacturer- and TSA-required verification checks so you can trust that alarm and clear results are reliable.

Where should an officer focus when swabbing a carry-on bag for explosive traces?

Answer: Areas touched most often, such as handles, zippers, and openings

Residue moves from hands to surfaces, so the most-touched areas are the most likely to hold traces.

During ETD screening, a passenger asks to have their person screened away from public view. What should the officer do?

Answer: Offer private screening in line with procedures

Passengers may request private screening, and officers should provide it according to procedure, normally with a witness present.