WASHINGTON – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has not properly managed the maintenance of its airport screening equipment, thus compromising the safety of airline passengers and aircraft, according to a new government report.
The report, released by the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General, notes that TSA has not issued adequate policies and procedures to airports for carrying out maintenance-related responsibilities, Washington Times reports.
Because of TSA’s lack of policies, the organization cannot adequately oversee the maintenance of equipment used to screen passengers and their baggage as they travel to and from various airports throughout the country, according to the report.
“Without diligent oversight … TSA risks shortening equipment life and incurring costs to replace equipment,” the report states.
When equipment fails, it could lead to longer wait times and delays in passenger and baggage screening. Additionally, the equipment may be less effective in detecting dangerous items.
The DHS Inspector General recommends TSA develop and implement a preventive maintenance validation process, as well as develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure that contractors complete corrective maintenance actions.
Other recommendations include TSA penalizing contractors who do not comply with the equipment maintenance process.
TSA officials say that they agree with the recommendations.
“TSA concurs with the Office of Inspector General recommendations and has already begun work on the necessary enhancements in September 2014,” agency spokesperson Bruce Anderson says. “We anticipate completion of that work by the end of 2015.”
