This is a basic post blast course designed to teach a systematic method of investigating an explosion scene. The course provides instruction in explosives identification and applications, explosives effects, IED component recognition and evidence collection. The course is delivered at a variety of locations throughout the United States based on requests from ATF field divisions.
The course is comprised of classroom participation, an explosives demonstration and actual investigation of a post blast scene.
Course Topics
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Introduction to explosives
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Introduction to improvised explosive devices (IED)
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Post blast scene processing and forensics
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ATF team concept
Length of Training
40 hours for the basic course.
Prerequisites
Applicant must be a full-time public safety official whose primary mission is to investigate bombing incidents and other explosions. Selections are intended to facilitate coordination of agencies in the area of operation where the training is being conducted.
Military Only- Basic Post Blast Investigative Techniques Courses
Military-only classes will be conducted at NCETR on Redstone Arsenal, with all associated costs being covered by the sponsoring unit. Please contact your training NCO and/or go to ATTRS for registration.
Tuition and Costs
ATF provides lodging, per diem, instructors, classroom, supplies, training materials and range tools. ATF will also reimburse travel expenses and baggage after student receipts are submitted to the Post Blast Program Manager. Students must provide their own transportation while in Huntsville.
How to Apply
Download ATF F 6310.1 — State and Local Training Registration Request. Please send the completed application via email to Ashly.Kent@atf.gov and PBIT@atf.gov.. Those selected will be contacted with available course dates.
Student selection is conducted by the NCETR training staff. Please contact the NCETR training staff hosting the course for more information.
Current Course Dates
| Type of Course | Dates | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Post Blast Investigative Technique | Nov. 3-7, 2025 | NCETR, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama |
| Basic Post Blast Investigative Technique | Dec. 8-12, 2025 | NCETR, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama |
| Military Only- Basic Post Blast Investigative Techniques | Jan. 26-30, 2026 | NCETR, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama |
| Basic Post Blast Investigative Technique | Feb. 23-27, 2026 | NCETR, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama |
| Military Only- Basic Post Blast Investigative Techniques | March 9-13, 2026 | NCETR, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama |
| Basic Post Blast Investigative Technique | June 8-12, 2026 | NCETR, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama |
| Military Only- Basic Post Blast Investigative Techniques | July 20-24, 2026 | NCETR, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama |
Contact
Please contact PBIT at Ashly.Kent@atf.gov and PBIT@atf.gov for additional information.