Increased Security Levels in New York & New Jersey Rail System
Thursday, June 25th, 2009
Security levels are going up as the summer travel season kicks into gear. One of the places that is seeing heightened security procedures is the New York/New Jersey rail system. The Port Authority has added new screening systems, part of a pilot program designed to increase overall safety. The screening system is called the Passive Millimeter Wave. It analyzes the energy generated by the body of individuals to determine if that person is hiding any dangerous devices (like explosives). The Passive Millimeter Wave is similar to a camera. It takes an image of the person and passes it on to the operator. The screen shows a bar from green to red showing the operator whether there are any anomalies that could pose a security risk.
The new Passive Millimeter Wave system has not been implemented because of any current threats to the mass transit system. It is simply a test program to help improve the safety of the overall system without causing undue hardship on travelers. The system has already been tested in other locations.
All passengers will be subject to the new screening and any passengers that do not comply will not be allowed to travel. The Passive Millimeter Wave system is non-invasive and is completely safe to all travelers.
The Passive Millimeter Wave system has been used in various locations since 2007. It has even been used at several airports. The Transportation Security Administrations is teaming up with other agencies (like the Port Authority) to improve the safety of travelers but without causing long security lines.
The summer travel season can be hectic enough for most people. Added security measures often make people worry. The good news for travelers is that the Passive Millimeter Wave system will make things safer without the cost of long delays.
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