Smiths Detection Helps Los Angeles Shipper Meet TSA Requirements

Smiths Detection today announces that ABLE Freight Services has selected its IONSCAN 500DT explosives detection scanner to screen both domestic and international shipments as a key security deadline approaches.

The advanced scanner will allow the Los Angeles-based company to meet the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) air cargo screening mandate well before the 100 percent screening deadline in August 2010.

Mark Laustra, Vice President of Homeland Security, Smiths Detection, said: “We are pleased to provide proven solutions for air cargo screening to customers of all sizes as they prepare for the coming screening mandates. ABLE Freight Services’ selection of our IONSCAN 500DT underlines the importance of providing systems designed for real world applications.”

ABLE Freight Services specializes in shipping temperature-sensitive items such as perishable foods, pharmaceuticals and semiconductors as well as more general cargo. The company is now classified as a TSA Certified Cargo Screening Facility (CCSF) by using the IONSCAN 500DT in its security screening processes.

The IONSCAN 500DT features two optimized detector tubes - an industry-first - which allow for the detection of a wider range of threats through increased sensitivity. Analysis and results are achieved in around eight seconds.

Grant Urata, Compliance Manger of ABLE Freight Services, said: “We selected Smiths Detection’s IONSCAN 500DT because it’s a proven technology that’s easy to operate, accurate and will allow us to focus on our core business – shipping. It will also enable us to meet the TSA’s CCSF requirements, which is critical to our future business.”

Smiths Detection (www.smithsdetection.com) offers advanced security solutions in civil and military markets worldwide, developing and manufacturing government-regulated technology products that identify explosives, chemical and biological agents, weapons and contraband. It is part of Smiths Group (www.smiths.com), a global leader in applying advanced technologies to markets in threat as well as contraband detection, energy, medical devices, communications and engineered components. Smiths Group employs around 22,000 people in more than 50 countries.