Security of airline cargo given boost

Smiths Detection’s IONSCAN 600 is the first explosives trace detection system to be ‘Approved’ on the TSA Air Cargo Screening Technology List (ACSTL) under the latest program requirements to ensure security of cargo aboard airplanes. These latest requirements, which came into effect in 2016, require a significantly higher level of explosives detection capability and software functionality.

IONSCAN 600 is a highly sensitive, lightweight, portable desktop system, that detects minute quantities of explosives, as well as narcotics such as fentanyl, within seconds. It can detect common military and home- made explosives including TNT, RDX and TATP as well as, a variety of illegal narcotics and controlled substances, including morphine, buprenorphine/ suboxone, cocaine and heroin and fentanyl analogues. It can trace explosives and narcotics detection simultaneously or can be programmed for dedicated explosives- only or narcoticsonly detection depending on specific requirements.

It features a proprietary non- radioactive ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) source, which means licensing is not required, saving time on administration and radiation testing.

The abuse of the dangerous drug fentanyl and its related analogues is sparking a new opioid crisis around the world. Forty to fif ty times stronger than street- level heroin, the fentanyl narcotics, even in extremely low doses, can kill.

The number of overdoses through illicit drug use have reached a critical level – these drugs are so potent that it is impossible to distinguish by eye whether a dose of powder will be fatal. Furthermore, the risk of accidental exposure when fentanyl- containing bulk powders or trace particles are present has become a major safety issue for law enforcement, first responders and public workers. Accidental ingestion, inhalation or skin contact with even small amounts can lead to respiratory distress, disorientation and even cardiac arrest.

IONSCAN 600 is designed to be extremely flexible for use in dynamic screening environments and is fully operational on hot- swappable batteries to ensure continuous use.

IONSCAN 600 is suited to global aviation, customs, ports and borders, correctional facilities and critical infrastructure markets.