Thanks to a donation of a $52,000 portable X-ray unit from the Canadian Air Transport Security Department (CATSA), the Greater Sudbury Police Service's two police explosive technicians will have a much easier time completing their duties.
The two officers with the Explosive Disposal Unit (EDU) have responded to more than 40 calls over the past six years. The availability of a portable X-ray unit will allow for a safer means of investigating suspicious packages and improvised explosive devices, said Greater Sudbury Police Chief Ian Davidson.
The unit consists of an X-ray generating camera, image receiver and portable laptop computer. Digital technology allows for multiple X-rays to be taken with only one approach and alteration of the X-ray penetration levels at a safe distance. The laptop computer allows for the storage, retrieval and highlighting of areas of interest as well as the ability to electronically transmit images to other agencies for review.
The police service did not have any X-ray equipment and needed an OPP squad to assist under suspicious circumstances. The only cost to the local police service will be $750 to test for radiation emissions from the CATSA unit and delivery and training at the Canadian Police College in Ottawa.
