CEO Calls on DHS To Protect Americans from Remote-Controlled Bombs

Dec. 7, 2005
Howard Melamed, CEO of mobile communications solutions provider CellAntenna Corp., has called upon the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to help protect Americans from the dangers of bombs triggered by remote-controlled devices.

According to Melamed, local and state law enforcement agencies, which include their bomb disposal units, cannot legally use radio-frequency jamming equipment to protect themselves and the public against deadly remote-controlled improvised explosive devices (RCIEDs) used by terrorists.

Remote-controlled devices, including garage door openers and mobile phones, have been used in a number of terrorist attacks around the world. Iraqi insurgents commonly use RCIEDs, building them with hobbyist-grade remote-controlled devices and cellular phones. Melamed says RCIEDs are the choice weapon of terrorists around the world because they are inexpensive and can easily be made. Because of this, he says, attacks in the United States using RCIEDs could be imminent.

In a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff, Melamed, citing the Communications Act of 1934, said Federal Communications Commission hasmaintained its ban on the use of radio-frequency jamming equipment by any state and local law-enforcement agency, including bomb squads. Melamed believes it is imperative DHS move swiftly toward either asking Congress to modify the Communications Act of 1934 or exerting its own authority in these matters by allowing the use of this technology by state and local government agencies, especially bomb-disposal units.

"Congress passed the Homeland Security Act of 2002, which specifically states and defines the need for government agencies to provide for the protection of the public, equipment used in the defense of the nation against terrorism and the need for emergency response providers to acquire the technology needed for this defense," Melamed wrote in his letter to Chertoff. "Section 502 of the act indicates that responsibility of emergency preparedness is the responsibility of DHS. Given these facts, Mr. Secretary, I believe that you are well within your power to correct this dangerous situation."

For additional information regarding jamming equipment, its uses and restrictions, visit www.cellantenna.com.

About the Author

Sandy Smith

Sandy Smith is the former content director of EHS Today, and is currently the EHSQ content & community lead at Intelex Technologies Inc. She has written about occupational safety and health and environmental issues since 1990.

Sponsored Recommendations

March 13, 2025
Learn about the main differences between OHSAS 18001 and ISO 45001, and how ISO 45001 takes a proactive approach to prevent work-related incidents. Find out why businesses should...
March 13, 2025
Avetta is a leader in contractor management, and with over 15 years of industry experience, we can help you establish a robust contractor pre-qualification program that aligns...
March 13, 2025
EQT commits to supporting Avetta in its ongoing growth and innovation journey.
March 13, 2025
Learn OSHA workplace lighting requirements to enhance safety, productivity, and quality. Discover standards, compliance benefits, and risks of non-compliance.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!