OSH Security Practice Test 2026 - Free OSH Security Practice Questions and Study Guide

The primary purpose of an improvised explosive device (IED) that security personnel should recognize is its intent to cause massive destruction. IEDs are typically designed to inflict maximum damage on targets, which may include people, infrastructure, or vehicles. Understanding that this is often the primary objective of such devices is crucial for security personnel, as it informs their approach to threat assessments and response strategies.

Additionally, the prevention of detection is a tactic often used in the creation and placement of IEDs, making them more dangerous due to their hidden nature. However, the central focus remains on their destructive capability.

While there are various elements that contribute to the functioning and deployment of an IED, emphasizing the overall purpose of causing devastation aligns best with the critical concerns of security personnel during their surveillance and protective measures. Thus, recognizing the potential for massive destruction is essential for effective incident preparation and response.