Chemical detection equipment has had many recent advances with the explosion of technology. In years past, chemical detection was accomplished by using reliable litmus or reaction tests. While reliable, this kind of testing took time, required a pool of consumable testing supplies, and only detected a limited amount of agents.

There are a variety of sensors that can be used to detect chemical hazards at single points, cover large areas, or provide stand-off detection.

Recent advances have resulted in handheld scanners that can detect a variety of chemicals within seconds. Modern sensors utilize a wide range of technologies such as ion-mobility spectrometry, mass spectrometry, photo ionization, and mass spectrometry.

In addition to handheld sensors, mobile laboratories are available that provide reliable and accurate analysis of chemical hazards in the field. Testing laboratories have been condensed in size from a large room of equipment to a single unit that takes up about as much space as a microwave, providing an invaluable resource to first responders.

These sensors are no longer limited to single agents or chemical weapons, which increases the overall value of the equipment. A building manager can purchase one sensor that is primarily used to detect a chlorine release from the adjacent factory and at the same time monitor for multiple industrial hazards and chemical agents. Instead of purchasing a "special" detector for one hazard that is only used if a terrorist attack occurs, sensors can now provide day-to-day benefits.

Portal sensors as larger sensors that are designed to screen people or equipment as they pass through a certain point, typically an entryway.

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