APD to get new bomb disposal robot
By Faith Nasmyth

The Atlanta Police Department will receive its sixth bomb disposal robot this summer. The Airport bomb squad tested several models before making its choice.

Designed specifically for planes, trains and buses, the teleMAX bomb disposal robot can fit into tight spaces but has the same workload as a larger model. The manufacturer also can run diagnostic tests on the robot through its USB port.

Five bomb technicians will be trained to use the newest robot.

“Training usually takes a week, but because of the advanced technology, training for this robot can take anywhere from two to three weeks to complete,” said Sgt. Robert Bailey, APD supervisor and head of the explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) and K9 divisions.

The Airport’s five bomb disposal robots range in size and function. The bomb squad tests each robot daily to ensure that all are in good working order. The robots are updated every two to three years.

Bomb technicians go through a rigorous six-week training process to become certified by the FBI, and they return to the training program every three years to be recertified.

“We are trained to handle anything and everything,” Bailey said. “We are very prepared.”

The Atlanta Police Department is getting a teleMAX bomb disposal robot this summer. The compact device is designed specifically for planes, trains and buses.

The versatile, highly maneuverable teleMAX robot ascends steps.

The robot’s “hand” opens a compartment in an airplane.