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Police commission adopts updated explosives, clandestine-lab and fireworks policy
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Summary
The San Francisco Police Commission unanimously adopted a revised Department General Order 8.08 that adds definitions and procedures for clandestine laboratories, barrel bombs and fireworks and directs training and cross-agency coordination.
The San Francisco Police Commission voted unanimously Jan. 7 to adopt a revised Department General Order 8.08 that updates the department's policy for bomb threats, clandestine laboratories, destructive devices and fireworks. The red-lined revision replaces a version last updated in 1994 and adds new definitions and a separate section addressing barrel bombs and fireworks.
Officer Dino Zagrafos, the department's senior bomb technician, told the commission the document was updated in response to changes in the penal code and California Health and Safety Code and to address items that did not exist or were not explicitly covered in the 1994 policy. Zagrafos said the revision also incorporates protocols for clandestine laboratories and related hazards, and that training plans are already in place for recruits and field personnel.
A public commenter asked whether recent explosions tied to hemp-oil processing and methamphetamine laboratories would be covered under the revised order; Zagrafos and Chief representatives confirmed that clandestine laboratories, including meth labs and hemp-oil compression operations cited in public comment, are included in the revised policy and that the bomb squad will treat significant explosions initially as criminal acts until investigation shows otherwise.
Commissioners discussed permit exemptions for sanctioned ceremonial fireworks and cross-agency coordination with the fire department. Commissioners and staff said the department will carry out a training plan and cross-train with the Fire Department and other first responders on any operational changes.
The commission then moved and seconded a motion to adopt the revised DGO 8.08; the chair called the question and the motion carried unanimously. Commissioners said the updated policy will provide a clear framework for officer response, investigatory follow-up and interagency safety planning.
The commission recorded no numeric roll-call vote in the public record beyond the unanimous outcome. The adopted DGO will be implemented through the department's scheduled training program and the bomb squad's existing instruction at the Police Academy.
