Owais Crawford
Airports are complex environments with a diverse range of personnel, including airport staff, airline employees, contractors, vendors, and travelers. Ensuring the safety of everyone at the airport is paramount, and various security measures are in place to achieve this. These include the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which conducts security screenings of passengers, baggage, and cargo, as well as access control systems that manage who is authorized to enter different areas of the airport. The implementation of physical controls, such as gates, locks, and key management systems, plays a crucial role in maintaining security and affecting the day-to-day operations of airport jobs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose of physical controls | Preventing unauthorized entry to restricted areas and implementing different security procedures in each operations area |
| Types of physical controls | Computerized systems (e.g., credential/badge readers, automatic locks), lock-and-key methods, physical guards, physical gates, key control and management systems |
| Benefits of physical controls | Improved security, system efficiency, accountability, deterrence and detection of unauthorized access, valuable forensic capabilities |
| Drawbacks of physical controls | May require specific procedures for certain individuals (e.g., religious head coverings, children's searches), potential for long wait times and extensive screening processes |
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What You'll Learn
Physical access control systems (PACS)
PACS can be used to create a seamless user journey through a building for authorised users. Different access levels can be set for different users, so employees can access sensitive areas of a building only when they have the proper authorisation. Access levels are usually set by assigning access to individual users or groups of users at a particular level, such as executives or contractors.
There are two PACS deployment models. Standalone PACS are local systems that control physical access to a facility or specific areas within it. Enterprise PACS (E-PACS) act as a unified, enterprise-wide system that controls physical access at most or all sites that belong to an agency. Agencies with many standalone PACS see increased human error, such as data entry errors, and so an E-PACS system is recommended to improve system management, scalability, monitoring, and performance.
PACS use key fobs, swipe cards, and personal identification numbers (PINs) to verify authorisation, rather than traditional physical keys. They can also use mobile credentials or biometrics, with readers or keypads verifying users' credentials.
The biggest benefit of a PACS is heightened security. Installing a PACS system increases the likelihood that unauthorised people cannot gain access to protected areas, giving operators control over every area of a building. PACS can also help mitigate the risk of security breaches from both internal and external sources.
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Airport security officers' search rights
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is responsible for conducting security screenings at airports. TSA officers are authorised to search passengers, their baggage, and cargo at screening checkpoints. While most TSA officers are not commissioned law enforcement officers and cannot make arrests, they can perform searches.
TSA officers use advanced imaging technology and walk-through metal detectors to screen passengers for metallic and non-metallic threats, including weapons and explosives. Passengers can decline advanced imaging technology screening and opt for a physical screening instead, although some passengers may be required to undergo advanced imaging technology screening if they have been selected for enhanced screening.
TSA officers can conduct a further search of passengers and their bags even if the initial screening reveals nothing suspicious. However, they may not select individuals for a personal search or secondary inspection based solely on their religion, race, national origin, gender, ethnicity, or political beliefs. Passengers have the right to wear religious head coverings during screening and can request that any additional screening related to their head covering be conducted in a private area by a person of their gender.
In addition to TSA screenings, customs officers may conduct searches at the border to determine admissibility into the United States. Customs officers can search belongings, including electronic devices, for contraband. They can also ask questions about immigration status and travel itineraries. However, they may not select individuals for questioning or personal searches based on protected characteristics such as religion, race, or gender.
Overall, while airport security officers have the authority to conduct searches, these searches must be carried out in accordance with established procedures and respect for passengers' rights and privacy.
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Screening technology
One of the key screening technologies used by the TSA is Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT). AIT systems use millimeter-wave technology to safely screen passengers without physical contact, detecting metallic and non-metallic objects, including weapons and explosives, that may be concealed under clothing. Passengers generally have the option to decline AIT screening in favour of a physical search. However, in certain limited circumstances, some passengers may be required to undergo AIT screening based on enhanced screening protocols.
The TSA has also been working on enhancing AIT technology. In collaboration with the Science and Technology Directorate (S&T), they are developing new concepts and technologies to improve the airport screening experience. This includes the HD-AIT passenger screening system, which has been commercialised, and the development of a shoe scanner that can quickly and efficiently screen footwear for threats. The shoe scanner operates by sending harmless millimeter waves through the soles of shoes to create 3D data that is analysed by a computer. This innovation has the potential to streamline the security process by simultaneously screening passengers and their shoes.
Another emerging technology in airport screening is Credential Authentication Technology (CAT). CAT enhances security by providing near-real-time ID authentication, reservation verification, and Secure Flight pre-screening status at airport security checkpoints. Additionally, the TSA's Secure Flight program enhances security by identifying low and high-risk passengers before they arrive at the airport. This risk-based passenger pre-screening program matches passenger names against trusted traveller lists and watchlists while minimising the collection of personal information to protect privacy.
These advancements in screening technology aim to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of airport security checks. By utilising innovative tools and collaborative efforts, authorities strive to ensure the safety of travellers while enhancing the overall airport experience.
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Key control and management
At any given time, an airport is bustling with a mix of airport personnel, airline employees, contractors, vendors, and travellers. To manage the complex permissions of who is authorized to go where inside and outside the facility, airports must implement an access control system.
For many airports, this means implementing a key control and management system to ensure that all keys, including those to sensitive areas, are properly secured and accounted for. Automated key control systems enable controlled access to keys and provide valuable forensic capabilities such as automated tracking, alarm, and reporting functions. These systems offer an increased level of security by preventing unauthorized key access and reducing the incidence of lost or misplaced keys.
Key management and access control technology can be integrated with existing physical security systems, such as video surveillance, to enhance security and system efficiency. For example, asset control systems with alarms and relay inputs/outputs can be integrated with video surveillance systems for additional security. Ethernet and USB capabilities also ensure system compatibility and integration.
Key control systems can be programmed remotely to meet airport and federal government regulations and set time and date parameters for each user. This helps to deter and detect unwarranted access to controlled areas. Remotely located systems can use PIN codes or biometric authentication to facilitate authorized user access and provide security management with greater assurance.
An audit trail can track data regarding who removed a key, when it was taken, and when it was returned. Activity reports provide complete information on key usage, including usage trends that can help the facility understand operational improvements, such as the need for additional equipment or improved scheduling.
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Airport Security Coordinator (ASC) role
An Airport Security Coordinator (ASC) plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of an airport and its passengers. They are responsible for the coordination and supervision of security-related activities and communications, working under the general direction of the Airport Operations Manager.
The ASC serves as a liaison between airport station managers, airline ground security coordinators, and other relevant parties, addressing security issues and ensuring compliance with regulations. This includes developing, reviewing, and updating airport security programs, directives, and activities, aligning with city, state, and federal safety mandates.
A key function of the ASC is to conduct security inspections, which can be regular or unannounced, to ensure that the airport adheres to established regulations and policies. They are also responsible for authorizing security clearances for individuals seeking access to restricted areas, such as the Security Identification Display Area and the Sterile Area.
Additionally, the ASC assists in community relations and promotes the airport facility, its tenants, and services. They also play a crucial role in emergency response, being available 24 hours a day to address TSA notifications and other urgent situations.
In terms of qualifications, an ASC typically requires specific certifications, such as the Airport Security Coordinator Certification through SSI Instruction or the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE). Work experience requirements vary, with some positions mandating four years of related experience, including supervisory and airport security office roles, while others may accept an equivalent combination of education and training in relevant fields like aviation management or criminal justice.
Physical controls, such as access control and the implementation of security measures like CCTV monitoring, are integral to an airport's security plan. The ASC plays a central role in establishing and maintaining these physical controls, ensuring the airport's security and, consequently, the safety of passengers and staff. Their role in overseeing and coordinating these measures directly impacts the effectiveness of the airport's security systems, highlighting the importance of physical controls in airport operations and the jobs associated with them.
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Frequently asked questions
Physical control in the context of airports refers to the measures put in place to manage access to restricted areas. This can include physical barriers such as gates, locks, and keys, as well as human security personnel.
Physical controls help ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive areas. This includes airport employees, contractors, and vendors. These controls can be automated systems that track and control access to keys, or they can be as simple as a lock-and-key method or physical guards.
Examples of physical controls at airports include:
- Physical gates to separate different operations areas and prevent unauthorized entry.
- Key control systems that track who removed a key, when it was taken, and when it was returned.
- Credential/badge readers and automatic locks.
- Near-field communication (NFC) technology, which allows a smartphone and an app to act as an electronic ID.
Other security measures at airports include:
- Surveillance systems such as CCTV.
- Passenger screening using advanced imaging technology and walk-through metal detectors.
- Pat-down searches and removal of religious headwear if an alarm is triggered.
- Screening of baggage and cargo for contraband and explosives.
- Law enforcement officers, such as airport police, who have the authority to arrest individuals.
