Certification -Explosives

Explosive Detection Certification 

This test will determine the proficiency and reliability of dogs in the detection of explosives in an operational certification.

The Test:

 
For the operational test the Team Cannot Miss Any Training Aids.  All testing will be done on a Pass/Fail basis.  If the team fails in one (1) test area, “Only That Area Failed In Needs To Be Re-tested” at a later time.  It is recommended that testing be done over a two (2) day period or more.  However this is only a recommendation and the final decision shall rest with the certifying official.  All aids will be placed at least thirty (30) minutes prior to testing.  No detonating devices will ever be placed with the aids or used in testing.  If an aid has to be moved to a new location, the previously used area must be removed as a testing sight.  A “Certifying Official Accredited in Explosive Detection” will do all testing.  Prior to the first detection team entering the test area, a man and a K-9 will be walked through the testing area.  Each handler shall brief the Certifying Official as to the dogs alert and response to an aid prior to testing.  Each indication to an aid by the canine should be obvious to the certifying official.  The certifying official shall prior to each phase, explain each problem that will be encountered by the handler such as boundaries, time, starting point, etc… 
 

The Purpose:

 
The purpose of the testing is to observe the team’s ability to locate a hidden explosive. It should be noted that all aids might not be pinpointed to source due to the height, wind currents or placement of the aid.  The certifying official should exercise reasonable judgment and the handler for consideration should note all changes of behavior. 
Any aggression towards a placed training aid (Bite, Bark or Scratch) can be used to disqualify the testing team.  Each certification shall be valid for a one (1) year period from the date of issue.  It should be noted that normal training and retraining must be conducted to maintain and enhance the team’s capability.  All aids used in testing should be of recent manufacture and in separate containers.  It shall be the responsibility of the agency being tested to provide the testing aids. Strict safety measures shall be upheld during testing. No smoking will be allowed in test areas.