Airport workers will get more security screening

February 11th 2008

In an effort to increase security and spot out potential terrorists, workers at seven nationwide airports will go through more vigorous screening starting in May.

The added checks are part of a 90-day test program led by the federal Transportation Security Administration. Airport workers already undergo some screening, from background checks to random searches before they are allowed access to secure areas. Some have loose access to potentially dangerous materials and to aircraft. The underlining concern is that individuals with malicious intentions could pose as workers and breach access to such areas.

Screening tests will be conducted at airports in Boston, Denver, Kansas City, Jacksonville , Florida, New Bern, Eugene and North Bend in Oregon. Screening procedures will differ by airport. There will be random screening as well as awareness training. About 53,000 workers will be affected.

Congress authorized screening test programs in late 2007.