Which energy source may cause unintentional ignition of EIDs?

Which energy source may cause unintentional ignition of EIDs?

• A. Heat
• B. Radio frequency
• C. Magnetic field
• D. Friction

Answer: (B)

Radio frequency energy is the energy source most likely to cause unintentional ignition of EIDs because many electronic initiating devices are designed to receive a remote RF signal to trigger the explosive. An RF field can couple into the initiator’s receiver or timing circuitry and, if it reaches the device’s sensitivity threshold, produce a firing impulse inadvertently. This makes exposure to RF sources—such as radios, cell phones, radar, or other strong transmitters—a primary safety concern around suspected EIDs. To reduce risk, keep RF sources away from suspected devices, power down or remove electronic equipment when handling or approaching EIDs, and use shielding or barriers as appropriate.

Heat, friction, or magnetic fields can pose hazards in other contexts, but they are not the main ignition mechanism for RF-sensitive electronic initiators.