“…cost-effective, provide a quicker screening process, can detect small metallic objects that might be


overlooked in other screening…”


to the fact that the HHMD is being held too far from the body. Such user-friendly advances targeting potential weakness in the use of equipment can only improve the chances of achieving those seemingly incompatible aims in aviation security, namely, the best possible detection rates and the rapid throughput of passengers.


potential dangers, the need for metal detectors remains as important as ever. Metal detectors are simply…cost-effective, provide a quicker screening process, can detect small metallic objects that might be overlooked in other screening... It is sufficiently cost effective to combine metal detectors with other imaging technology for the most comprehensive screening system.”


This layered approach offers the most robust resistance to the carriage of prohibited items that is currently available and compatible with the need for speedy throughput of passengers. Nevertheless, where new technology is introduced and however advanced and robust it may seem, we can never lose sight of the fact that there will be eventually a counter-measure dreamt up by someone keen to subvert the process.


This results


in what can be regarded as a constant race between the ‘good’ and ‘bad’, where the development and deployment of new detection technology is imperative before someone finds a way of working round what is already in place on the ground.


Companies such as


The future


Recent plots or attempted attacks have proved that metal detection still has a key role in aviation security screening. That said, experience on the ground makes it is equally apparent that it cannot be used as the only screening measure. A layered approach is needed, in which metal detection plays its still crucial role alongside other screening methods that are able to detect non- metallic items. As Steve Moore of Garrett Electronics says:


“While new technology in passenger screening can look for forbidden liquids or other


18


CEIA, Garrett and Adams all have a role to play in ensuring that the technical advantage remains ours. Forthcoming technological developments will surely see the combining of the various elements of metal detection together with newer screening methods, such as the backscatter X-ray or millimetre


Metal detection gloves ar Adams Electr


onics. e available fr om


wave imaging technologies being introduced.


In addition


to maintaining the technological development, it is equally important that the machines remain user friendly.


For the foreseeable future, metal detection technology and the development of complementary, non-metallic, detection capabilities will remain central to aviation security. However, as with all technology, the human element in its deployment and use remains both the greatest strength and the greatest weakness. Professionally focussed and motivated staff who understand and employ the equipment correctly and are able to accurately interpret what it is telling them will always be at the forefront of the aviation security environment.


Elpam Electr


onics' 302M hand-held magnetometer . Register now for FREE instant access to ASI online by visiting www.asi-mag.com


Helen Gripton BA (Hons), is Business Manager and Threats Officer of Redline Aviation Security Limited.


June 2010 Aviationsecurityinternational


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52