HMPPS Residual Drug Detection

Summary

The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) is exploring the capability and capacity of the market for the supply of a Residual Drug Detection solution for HMPPS and Approved Premises sites. The intention is for a next-generation solution that will support HMPPS and Approved Premises sites in their efforts to detect and deter illicit substances within prisons and contribute to security and safety objectives as part of the operational policy framework.

Background

HMPPS continues to prioritise security measures across the prison estate to reduce harm caused by illicit substances and support safer environments by disrupting supply routes and inform intelligence-led decision making. The use of Drugs Detection equipment in prisons, is a key element of the objective to ‘manage significant and emerging risks related to drug and alcohol use and supply through effective risk management’, as set out in the operational framework. While HMPPS currently employs a range of detection tools, a mobile residual drugs detection capability will look to strengthen operational capability on the ground through deployment of high-sensitivity detection tools where and when they are needed across multiple locations within prisons.

Indicative scope of requirement:

The requirements at this stage for a next-generation solution are subject to change but it is envisaged that the specification could include the following:

Rapid screening

Drug Library

Accuracy

Portability and ease of use

Durability

• oUsable within non sterile prison environments, e.g. dust, humidity and temperature fluctuations

Low maintenance and cost efficiency

Data Management

Discreet operation

• oQuiet and unobtrusive to avoid escalating tensions during checks.