Serving as a hazardous materials responder or a customs officer means being prepared to identify and neutralise a wide range of chemical threats. Among these threats, unknown substances pose a significant risk. Whether solid, liquid, or powder, these substances can be harmful, reactive, or even explosive, and their dangers are often invisible to the naked eye. In such situations, immediate and accurate identification of these substances is critical. The infrared handheld spectrometer serves as a vital tool in the field. Designed for rapid, on-site analysis, it empowers responders to identify unknown chemicals, toxic industrial materials, or explosives within seconds, enabling informed decisions to mitigate risks effectively.