A weapon of mass destruction (WMD) is a nuclear, radiological, chemical, biological or other weapon that can kill and bring significant harm to a large number of humans or cause great damage to human-made structures (e.g. buildings), natural structures (e.g. mountains), or the biosphere. The scope and application of the term has evolved and been disputed, often signifying more politically than technically. Originally coined in reference to aerial bombing with chemical explosives, since World War II it has come to refer to large-scale weaponry of other technologies, such as chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear.

An improvised explosive device (IED) can be almost anything with any type of material and initiator. It is a “homemade” device that is designed to cause death or injury by using explosives alone or in combination with toxic chemicals, biological toxins, or radiological material. IEDs can be produced in varying sizes, functioning methods, containers, and delivery methods. IEDs can utilize commercial or military explosives, homemade explosives, or military ordnance and ordnance components.

Authors:

John Perdikaris

Dr. Perdikaris is a registered professional engineer in the province of Ontario Canada. He has over 20 years of varied engineering and emergency management experience on a variety of projects, including acting as project manager. He is an adjunct professor in the Department of Civil Engineering and lecturer with the Chang School of Continuing Education at Ryerson University. Dr. Perdikaris has a Bachelor’s of Applied Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Toronto, a post-graduate certificate in environmental science and engineering from Ryerson University,  a Master’s Degree in Water Resources Engineering from the University of Guelph and a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Water Resources Engineering from the same university. Dr. Perdikaris began his engineering career with the Conservation Authorities focusing on climate change, watershed conservation, flood forecasting and warning, dam safety and stormwater management. He later focused his efforts on dam safety, risk assessment and the application of GIS to renewable energy generation industry. Dr. Perdikaris is a member of the Canadian Dam Association’s working group on emergency management and a published author. His research paper on “Responding to Major Catastrophic Events for Dam Owners”, won the best research paper award at the 2016 Canadian Dam Association Conference. In addition, to his engineering skills and background, Dr. Perdikaris has developed expertise in physical security, personnel and critical infrastructure protection and counter terrorism. He is a graduate of the Canadian Security Studies Program from the Canadian Forces College in Toronto and a member of the World Institute for Nuclear Security. Through his company Innovative Defensive Options, Dr. Perdikaris provides training and consultation advice to organizations in these areas. Dr. Perdikaris has provided training to members of the Canadian Forces Preventive Medicine Branch in water supply security. His text book “Physical Security and Environmental Protection” won the 2014 Campus Author Award, celebrating the 2013-2014 book publishing accomplishments of the University of Guelph Community.

Manrico Erriu

Manrico Erriu is a strategist, specialist in protection and risk mitigation. He took part in multiple operations in the Americas, the Middle East, Africa, Balkans and Asia, with hands on experience in the field of counter terrorism and protection in the Government and private sector. Specialising in counter terrorism, close protection operations and Intelligence have been and will continue to be pivotal areas of his expertise.