Updates

Smiths Detection Creates First Mobile Security Screening Checkpoint in Partnership with TSWG and TSA

Pine Brook, NJ., April 3, 2006 - Smiths Detection, a world leading provider of trace detection and X-ray security screening equipment, today announced it has partnered with the Technical Support Working Group (TSWG) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to design, develop and pilot a unique, movable security checkpoint called the Mobile Screening Checkpoint 40 (MSC 40). A four-week pilot of the MSC 40 will begin on April 4, 2006, at Dorsey Station, a Maryland MTA MARC station. Funded by TSWG, the MSC 40 is a completely self-contained checkpoint solution with multiple integrated detection technologies designed to allow high throughput with various levels of screening, including secondary examination for alarm resolution. This portable security solution can withstand severe weather conditions and be deployed on demand in numerous settings such as special events or during elevated threat levels. “Many important public or high profile settings face a host of challenges in security because they lack flexible screening options or need the most sophisticated fixed security checkpoint solutions only on a temporary basis,” said Mark Laustra, Vice President of Transportation Security Technology andPrograms, Smiths Detection. “To meet this challenging demand, we created the first truly mobile security screening checkpoint, according to TSWG and TSA specifications, which can be shipped anywhere in the world and set up in matter of minutes. Smiths Detection has uniquely engineered its proven technologies, (already found at major permanent security checkpoints worldwide), to seamlessly fit into two standard adjoining shipping containers -- creating an ‘instant checkpoint on demand’.”The MSC 40 represents the first time in the U.S. that these state-of-the-art detection technologies have been successfully configured together in a transportable platform, creating a unique security checkpoint solution that can be used to screen people at nearly any setting.This first-of-a-kind mobile checkpoint integrates a customized assortment of Smiths Detection security solutions including:  walk-through trace portals, explosives detection systems, X-ray inspection systems and metal detectors.  The MSC 40 includes a privacy area as a secondary screening feature which is quickly deployed using curtains. The system is built on two standard, ruggedized 8 by 20 foot metal shipping containers that are securely attached and can be easily moved by traditional forklift and crane methods.The MSC 40 is weather resistant and has added weather protections built-in to further ease throughput during inclement weather including rain and snow.  In addition, the checkpoint includes environmental controls for the comfort of screeners. The MSC 40 can be rapidly setup  to secure entry to venues and facilities access points.When configured, the joined containers become a 16 by 20 square foot cutting-edge security checkpoint, with one entrance and two exits complete with overhanging shelters and walking ramps.“We uniquely designed and organized the MSC 40 with multiple levels of screening technologies that are configured to ensure maximum security screening and maximum throughput for nearly any environment,” said Dr. Kristofer Roe,Director of Technology & Programs, Smiths Detection. “This versatile checkpoint was created to provideeal security screening solutions for a variety of purposes and settings ranging from presidential visits to major sporting events and critical infrastructure sites.”TSA/TSWG MSC 40 Equipment Features:IONSCAN Sentinel II – A non-intrusive walk-through trace portal for explosives detection, commonly called the “puffer,” is easily incorporated into the MSC 40.IONSCAN Desktop Detection Systems – Smiths Detection offers several desktop detection systems that are easily installed in the MSC 40 which produce rapid and accurate results.
  • IONSCAN 400B – A desktop explosives trace detector.
  • IONSCAN 400D (Document Scanner) – A desktop travel document scanner that detects traces of explosives through a simple sample collection.
HI-SCAN X-ray System – Multiple Smiths-Heimann X-ray inspection systems are available based on throughput needs and baggage size requirements. The new 6046si model combines multilevel X-ray and state-of-art high resolution imaging processing technologies.Metal Detectors – A variety of high performance metal detectors can be used in the MSC 40 which use advanced electronic technology and are ISO 9001 compliant.Other Customizable Equipment Options Available Which Are Not Included in This MSC40 Configuration:IONSCAN 500DT – The new dual tube desktop explosives and narcotics trace detector (narcotics option will not be used by TSA).X-ACT (Advanced Contents Tracking) – An automated recognition software program whichentifies suspicious material screened in HI-SCAN series systems can be incorporated into the MSC 40.Handheld Detectors – Smiths Detection has a number of handheld and portable detectors that can be easily included in the MSC 40 such as the Sabre4000, a hand-held trace detector for explosives, chemical agents, toxic industrial chemicals or narcotics.About Smiths DetectionSmiths Detection, with North American operations based in Pine Brook, NJ, is one of four operating divisions of Smiths Group plc. Smiths Detection offers technologically advanced security solutions to detect andentify explosives, chemical and biological agents, weapons and contraband. Employing trace detection technology together with Smiths Heimann X-ray imaging, Smiths Detection provides screening solutions for customers in civil and military markets worldwide. For more information visit: www.smithsdetection.com.Media Contacts:David OlsenColtrin & AssociatesPhone: (212) 221-1616 ext. 118Email: David_Olsen@Coltrin.comSusan Cooper-CurcioSmiths DetectionPhone: (973) 830-2131Email: susan.cooper@smithsdetection.com