Detection
Identification
Monitoring
ABOUT
Detection, Identification, and Monitoring (DIM) Units are specialist vehicles designed to provide enhanced detection capabilities at incidents involving hazardous materials. These vehicles function as mobile laboratories, allowing specialist officers to identify unknown substances and assess potential risks on-site.
The primary role of a DIM unit is to assist in the detection, analysis, and monitoring of potentially hazardous substances, this capability is utilised in scenarios such as industrial incidents, flooding, chemical attacks, and urban search and rescue (USAR) operations where hazardous materials may be present.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) operates four DIM units, all of which were provided under the national resilience framework by the Scottish Government to select legacy services. DIM units are generally crewed by specialist flexi-duty officers (FDO), usually Hazardous Materials (HazMat) or DIM officers, to provide real-time data on chemical, radiological, and toxic threats. DIM units are maintained and transported by station crews but are operated on scene by specialist advisors.
Specification
Detection & Identification
Includes advanced detection instruments capable of analysing gases, solids, and liquids for hazardous properties as well as mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy, and radiological detection tools to quickly identify unknown substances.
Monitoring and Sampling
Includes atmospheric monitoring devices to assess air quality and detect airborne contaminants. May deploy remote or handheld sampling tools to safely collect and analyse hazardous materials. Is Capable of continuous monitoring to track the spread of contaminants and assess ongoing risks.
Body
Built on an Iveco Daily body and features a modular internal laboratory setup with secure storage for sensitive detection equipment and testing materials. Is fitted with communication systems to allow for live data transmission to command teams and partner agencies.