Experimental Research Assessing Threat of EOD Technicians from Explosive Blast

Abstract

The EOD technicians work in an environment with a higher threat. The job of the EOD technicians is to assist in identification of explosive ordnance and its destruction at the place of finding. Their working environment is influenced by physical, chemical, physiological and psychological factors. The main threats are injuries, illnesses, and work traumas resulting from explosions. To reduce the risk of blast injuries the protective bomb suits are used by the technicians. In the article results of experimental research assessing threat of EOD technicians from explosive blast are presented. Upper limbs are the most exposed to injuries in the work of pyrotechnic technicians. In the article the acceleration test results of upper limb are presented. During the research an acceleration of the particular body parts as well as pressure acting on the thoracic of the dummy surrogate were measured. The test was conducted in open air condition in Krupski Młyn area. Essential elements of the research were to develop and use proper devices for data acquisition in a test condition of blast. During the test the prototype autonomous measurement system developed in the Institute of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics was used. The results of the experimental research will be used to design and improve better personnel blast protection suits as well as educational materials for the future EOD technicians.