Disneyland Tests Evolv Contactless Metal Detectors at Security Checkpoints
Disneyland is testing the new security system at the Downtown Disney District, an outdoor shopping center located at the resort in Anaheim, Calif.
The Evolv Express scanners can screen up to 3,600 people per hour — 10 times faster than traditional metal detectors, according to the Massachusetts-based company.
ANAHEIM, Calif. — Disneyland is putting a new Evolv Technology metal detector system through its paces in which visitors walk through a security checkpoint on the west side of the Anaheim theme park resort without having to stop to empty their pockets or open their bags.
Disneyland began testing the new security system this past weekend at the Downtown Disney District, according to Disney officials. The Downtown Disney District, an outdoor shopping center, is the only part of resort that is currently open.
The Disneyland resort takes a comprehensive approach to security and will continue with bag checks and other security measures before entry into the Downtown Disney district as the new system is tested, according to the resort.
Disneyland, among other California theme parks, closed in mid-March due to the coronavirus outbreak in the U.S. and remain shuttered while they await guidelines for safely reopening from the state.
The resort’s outdoor shopping center reopened in July with additional health and safety measures including mandatory face masks, temperature checks, reduced capacity, contactless payments, social distancing and enhanced sanitization.
The new Evolv Express contactless security scanners at Downtown Disney District are similar to the no-touch bag check systems used at Disney Springs outdoor shopping center and Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park in Florida, WDW News Today reports.
The Evolv Express scanners can screen up to 3,600 people per hour — 10 times faster than traditional metal detectors, according to the Massachusetts-based company.
The system uses real-time artificial intelligence (AI) software to detect guns and other weapons on people’s bodies or in their bags. Visitors walk through the blade-like scanners at a natural pace while carrying their bags and keeping their belongings in their pockets. The contactless system reduces physical interactions and allows security guards to ask people to open their bags or remove items for closer inspection.
A thermal imaging package can be added to the Evolv Express system that allows for automatic temperature screenings — although it reduces throughput to under 1,300 people per hour.
Evolv promotes the system as a way to reduce labor costs by up to 70%. On Sept. 29, Disney announced that 28,000 employees would be laid off at Disneyland, Disney World and throughout the company’s theme park, cruise line, travel planning, publishing, gaming and retail division.
Evolv Express scanners are used at Six Flags amusement parks, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York City and Wynn Las Vegas casino and hotel, according to the company.
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