What is an Explosive?
Explosives can be broken down into two categories: high explosives and low explosives.
Low explosives are often used as propellants or fuels (e.g. gasoline, kerosene, gun powder, etc.) and often referred to as deflagrates. When ignited, a low explosive undergoes a process knows as deflagration, in which the substance rapidly expands, accompanied by a dramatic increase in thermal energy. Low explosives are often flammable and deflagrate (explode) at relatively slow rates. Low explosives are more common than high explosives.
A high explosive can be defined as is any substance prone to under go rapid chemical decomposition accompanied by swift changes in heat and pressure (e.g. trinitrotoluene [TNT] aka dynamite, nitroglycerine, ammonium nitrate, etc.) High explosives are often chemically unstable in nature and can detonate in the absence of an oxygen source. Most often, a high explosive must be detonated by a low explosive. High explosives expand as supersonic rates using a principle called shock compression (i.e., high explosives are accompanied by a very strong shock wave). High explosives are chemically unstable in nature and can detonate in the absence of an oxygen source. High explosives expand much faster than low explosives. High explosives are commonly used in mining, civil engineering, agriculture, demolition, and construction, as well as weapons.
What is an Explosive Incident?
An explosive incident is an undesired or harmful detonation of an explosive. Explosives incidents can be intentional or unintentional. Intentional explosive incidents (i.e., bombings or terrorist attacks) take place when an explosive device is intentionally detonated in order to cause property damage, loss of life, or any other harmful outcome. Unintentional explosive incidents (i.e. accidental explosions) occur when an explosive substance is accidentally detonated due to a leak or fire, for example.
The risk of explosive incidents is actually quite high in our region and nation. Many businesses make, transport, and use both low and high explosives every day. Explosives continue to be the weapon of choice for terrorists worldwide. In addition, businesses that use explosives are at high risk of sabotage by terrorists or criminals.
These Web sites give you some information about preventing, preparing for, and responding to explosive incidents:
Note: The following links are provided as a resource only. The content provided was not prepared by the North West Pennsylvania Business Coalition for Homeland Security (NWPABCHS), and is not necessarily endorsed by(NWPABCHS).
Bomb Stand Off Card
The safe process to deal with a Bomb. Do not touch suspicious item, Notify proper Authorities – Call 911, ensure all witnesses are available to brief 1st responder, and recommended stand-off data should be used in conjunction with your emergency evacuation plan. Learn More from Bomb Stand Off Card
