TSA Increases Security Screenings for Airport Workers
Among the new measures, more random checks for airport and aviation employees and identifying biometric standards for access control.
WASHINGTON – Security screening and background checks will get more intense for the people who prepare planes for flights, handle luggage and serve meals at the airport, according to new measures enacted by the Transportation Security Administration.
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The TSA has completed its review of 28 airport access control recommendations provided by the Aviation Security Advisory Committee at the request of the Department of Homeland Security, NBC 5 Investigates reports. The goal is to address the potential insider threat vulnerability at U.S. airports.
Security measures include more random screening for airport and aviation employees, more enforcement of airport badge accountability requirements, reducing access points to an operational minimum and identifying biometric standards for access control.
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In addition, TSA is starting a phased implementation approach for FBI Rap Back, which will enable real-time criminal history monitoring of the aviation worker program. NBC 5 Investigates reported in March how local airline catering employees were raising concerns about potential security issues at on-site and off-site facilities.
TSA said the new actions will ensure that access to secure areas is only granted to those who should have it. TSA also said airport employees, for example, will have access to an anonymous tip line where they can report their security concerns.
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