[1] The HOSDB's role was to support the Home Office's strategic aims through the effective application of science and technology.

[2] HOSDB would also provide technical support for the UK's police and security services.

HOSDB has two sites in the UK: Sandridge, Hertfordshire and Langhurst, West Sussex.

The work of the HOSDB involved hi-tech research into countering terrorism, technology to fight crime, borders security, and reducing crime and anti-social behaviour.

Their work sometimes involved attending incidents such as the explosions in London in 2005 in order to assess structural impacts, etc.