3.2.5. IDENTIFYING HME PRODUCTION FACILITIES
ׁ WARNING. A safe and accurate assessment takes time – DO NOT RUSH.
When viewing a potential HME production facility, it is important to take an overview of all the equipment and chemicals, as most have more than one legitimate use and individually they are unlikely to indicate the production of HME. Each scene will be different as there are many possibilities for equipment and precursor chemicals. It is not possible to give a definitive list, and technical training and experience must be used when making an assessment. Consider the situation around the potential production site as this may aid in the identification of an HME production facility. There may also be other equipment associated with the production of IEDs present such as batteries, wire, soldering equipment, etc. Caution should always be used before entering a potential production facility and consideration should be given to both explosive and non-explosive hazards. Precursor chemicals used in the production of HME can be hazardous in themselves and it is likely there will also be unknown chemicals present, with even those in marked containers possibly having changed.
Image 1. Image of precursor chemicals in field conditions
MA staff should ask questions before entering a site to identify potential hazards early. Nothing should be touched until it has been considered safe to do so. Be cautious before entering any confined space and consider the ventilation, equipment and planning that is required.
IEDD task conduct
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