What is odourology?
Odourology (the science of smells) is based on using dogs' sense of smell to identify odours without having to unload the goods. It is a particularly effective technique (success rate of over 90%).
We just need to take an air sample, done by contact with a tissue, inside the trailer or container where the goods are stored. For this technique to be effective, the sample must be taken from a space that has been confined for at
least 2h.
The dog will then be shown several samples placed in jars, in our odourology laboratory. These samples consist of specimens to be analysed. The dog, after being presented with a reference smell (e.g. explosives), will compare the
smells of the various jars and lie down in front of the one that matches the smell we are looking for.
Why choose odourology to ensure freight security?
The advantage of odourology, compared to other air freight security techniques, is that it requires no handling. The goods stay in the trailer or container until they are loaded onto the plane.
This makes freight security easier, quicker and less expensive. Sometimes it may even be the only security solution for your goods, in cases where the size or nature of the freight offers no other options.
Odourology is a technique recognised by the Civil Aviation Technical Department (in France). Switzerland does not yet recognise odourology as a valid freight security technique.
At your service
to meet your needs
Our odourology laboratories in France
We have a laboratory at the EuroAirport (Basel-Mulhouse) hub and will soon be adding a second site at Strasbourg International Airport, in an extension in Betschdorf.
