Updates

Smiths Detection Selected By TSA To Provide Two Explosive Detection Walk-Through Portals At Las Vegas' McCarran International Airport

PINE BROOK, N.J.--Feb. 24, 2005-- Smiths Detection, the world's leading provider of trace detection equipment, today announced it has been selected by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to field test two of its explosive detection walk-through trace portals, known as the Sentinel II, at the McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, Nevada. Both trace portals, used to screen passengers for traces of explosives, have been installed at Terminal One. The deployments of the Sentinel IIs are part of the TSA's Phase II pilot program to test and evaluate trace portals and their impact on airport security checkpoints. The Sentinel II is a non-invasive walk-through scanner that operates automatically, passing air gently over the body to release particles that are naturally absorbed by or cling to a person's clothing or body. These particles are then drawn into the instrument for analysis. Detection of these particles or vapors can indicate that a person is either carrying an explosive device or has come into contact with explosives substances. "We are pleased to participate in the first deployment of two trace portals at a single airport," said Bill Mawer, Director of Business Development, Smiths Detection. "Together with the TSA we are enhancing security screening and developing new solutions to benefit the flying public." In addition to McCarran International Airport, the Sentinel II is currently being tested at Baltimore-Washington International Airport, JFK International Airport, and Jacksonville International Airport. About Smiths Detection Smiths Detection North America, based in New Jersey, is part of Smiths Detection, which 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, plus specialist applications for life sciences and food manufacturing industries. Employing trace detection technology together with Smiths-Heimann x-ray imaging, Smiths Detection provides security solutions for customers in homeland security and defense markets worldwide. For more information visit: www.smithsdetection.com. Contact: Smiths Detection Susan Cooper, 973-830-2131 susan.cooper@smithsdetection.com or Coltrin & Associates Troy McCombs, 212-221-1616 ext. 105 troy_mccombs@coltrin.com Source: Smiths Detection