Bomb Disposal Expert Reviews Accuracy of ITV Drama Trigger Point

Lucy Lewis, a former bomb disposal expert, has given her review of the accuracy of the ITV drama series Trigger Point. The show, created and written by Daniel Brierley and starring Vicky McClure as Lana Washington, follows the intense work of a bomb disposal squad countering terrorist threats.

Lucy, the UK’s first female ‘expo’ or explosives officer, praised the series but also pointed out some inaccuracies. She applauded the absence of clichés like the digital countdown clock and snipping red wires, but expressed frustration with the portrayal of bomb disposal as a spectator sport. She explained that bomb disposal is an internal, high-stakes job, and it is challenging to strike a balance between accurate information and captivating drama.

During her years as an explosives officer, Lucy diffused various explosive devices, mines, and shells. Although her role was less risky than Lana’s in the show, she acknowledged the need to confront the possibility of a fatal outcome. She also revealed that bomb disposals weren’t allowed to explain controlled explosions to civilians, a detail that the series was able to address.

In response to criticisms of the first season, Lucy defended the decision to show Lana removing her helmet to inspect a car for a bomb. She stated that in certain situations, a helmet would provide little protection against a car bomb‘s devastating explosion. Lucy added that bomb suits, often seen on the show, were rarely used in reality due to their poor fit for women and limited effectiveness against larger explosives.

Concluding her review, Lucy praised Vicky McClure’s portrayal of Lana Washington, commending her as a credible and gritty character. She stated that Trigger Point is one of the better series about bomb disposal and praised the show’s overall accuracy.