Conducting Screening Using Explosive Trace Detection (ETD)

Competencies Obtained

On completion of this course participants will be able to:

• Describe the methods, techniques, and processes for conducting ETD screening, including proper sampling and results interpretation.
• Apply best practices for setting up, calibrating, operating, and maintaining ETD equipment.
• Identify typical operational challenges, contamination risks, and mitigation strategies to enhance screening effectiveness.
• Explain the necessary documentation, reporting procedures, and regulatory requirements related to ETD screening.
• Demonstrate respectful and effective communication, ensuring privacy, dignity, and professionalism during the screening process.

Who Should Enrol?

• Airport security personnel.
• Personnel from security screening providers that operate at the airport.
• Security trainers and supervisors.
• Airport personnel interested in better understanding Aviation Security.

Course Content

This course covers the following topics:

1. Introduction to ETD

• What is ETD and how does it work?
• Methods and equipment for collecting and analyzing samples.
• Your responsibilities when conducting ETD.

2. ETD Equipment Set Up, Checking, and Operation

• ETD equipment set up, checks, and calibration.
• ETD equipment operation.
• Common issues that may be encountered with ETD equipment and actions to resolve.

3. Conducting ETD Sampling

• Selecting people or items for screening.
• The general sampling process.
• Areas to swab.
• How to avoid contaminating the sample.
• Testing samples using ETD equipment.

4. Responding to the Results of a Sample

• Possible sample results and corresponding actions to take.
• Actions to take in response to a positive result.
• Managing false positives.
• Contact and reporting procedures.

5. Recording ETD Information

• Recording ETD equipment check and calibration results.
• Recording ETD sampling activities and results.

6. Additional Considerations

• Customer service standards and techniques when conducting ETD screening.
• Safety considerations.
• Maintaining privacy and confidentiality.

Assessment

This course includes an integrated online assessment.

Candidates must successfully complete the assessment to receive a Certificate of Completion.