Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) Procedures Flashcards

What does the acronym ETD stand for in airport security screening?

Answer: Explosive Trace Detection

ETD stands for Explosive Trace Detection, a screening method that identifies microscopic explosive residue collected on swabs from surfaces.

ETD equipment is designed to detect trace amounts of which type of substance?

Answer: Explosive materials or residue

ETD machines are specifically designed to identify trace particles of explosive compounds collected on swabs from passenger hands, bags, and surfaces.

When collecting an ETD sample from a passenger's hands, a TSO should swab:

Answer: The back and palms of both hands

Proper ETD hand sampling requires wiping the swab across the back and palms of both hands to ensure thorough collection of any explosive residue.

If an ETD machine generates a positive alarm, what is the TSO's required immediate action?

Answer: Conduct additional resolution screening per TSA Standard Operating Procedures

A positive ETD alarm mandates that the TSO initiate additional resolution screening procedures as outlined in TSA SOPs before the passenger can proceed.

Why must TSOs change ETD swabs between each passenger screened?

Answer: To prevent cross-contamination between passengers

Using a fresh swab for each passenger prevents cross-contamination, which could transfer residue from one person to another and cause false positive results.

Which of the following substances is known to potentially cause a false positive result on ETD equipment?

Answer: Nitroglycerin-based heart medication

Nitroglycerin, used in heart medications, contains nitrogen compounds that ETD equipment can detect and flag as potential explosive residue.

ETD screening may be used as an alternative screening method to which technology?

Answer: Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT)

ETD can be used as an alternative to Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) for passengers who opt out or who cannot use the AIT machine.