After a successful one year pilot program that tested the SecureTray System(TM) in four airports, the TSA has approved six more airports for use of the system, which includes allowing advertisements on the bottom of security bins. St. Petersburg, FL-based SecurityPoint Media holds the U.S. patent on the SecureTray System.
Results from the pilot program indicated that the system helped improve checkpoint processes, such as reducing passengers’ in-line wait times by over 15%, improving the efficienty level of security screening officers 80% and reducing screeners’ on-the-job back and shoulder injury claims by 90%.
“Pushing the carts has helped decrease workplace injuries,” said Nico Melendez, TSA spokesman. “Less injuries mean more people can stay at work.”
On June 13, 2007, system installation and implementation was completed at the first pilot program airport, Nashville International (BNA). At least five other airports have also submitted applications that are awaiting TSA review before joining the current approvals: Lafayette Regional (LFT), Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA), Los Angeles International (LAX), Ontario International (ONT), and John Wayne International (SNA).
Each airport in the program had to meet certain TSA requirements, including partnering with a vendor that provides the checkpoint equipment at no cost to the TSA or the airport. Vendors’ systems are required to include: Non-metallic carts; height-adjustable, stainless steel divesting tables; and personal belongings trays
“With formal approvals in place our next step is to install our system at client sites as soon as possible,” says Doug Linehan, SecurityPoint’s vice president and head of U.S. commercial operations. “This will allow airports to capitalize on the program and see just how well the system performs in peak travel season situations.”
Once begun, system installation is completed within 24 hours and does not interrupt normal airport operations. SecurityPoint’s goal is to have all systems deployed before June 28, 2007 – in time for the busy July 4th travel period.
