TSO Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) Procedures

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

Explosive Trace Detection

Answer

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

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

Explosive materials or residue

Answer

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

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

The back and palms of both hands

Answer

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

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Conduct additional resolution screening per TSA Standard Operating Procedures

Answer

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

Question 5

Why must TSOs change ETD swabs between each passenger screened?

Accepted Answer

To prevent cross-contamination between passengers

Answer

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

(TSO) Transportation Security Officer Certification Practice Test

(TSO) Transportation Security Officer Certification Practice Test

TSO Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) Procedures