FACT SHEET: Train and Rail Inspection Pilot, Phase I
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Transportation Security Administration
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 7, 2004
TSA Press Office: (571) 227-2829
Objective:
Implement a pilot program to determine the feasibility of screening passengers, luggage and carry-on bags for explosives in the rail environment.
TRIP I Background:
- Secretary Ridge announced TRIP on March 22, 2004, to test new technologies and screening concepts.
- The program is conducted in partnership with the Department of Transportation, Amtrak, Maryland Rail Commuter and Washington D.C.’s Metro.
- The New Carrollton, Md., station was selected because it serves multiple types of rail operations and is located close to Washington, D.C.
TRIP I Facts:
- Screening for Phase I of TRIP began on May 4 and was completed on May 26, 2004.
- A total of 8,835 passengers and 9,875 pieces of baggage were screened during the test.
- The average time to wait in line and move through the screening process was less than 2 minutes.
- Customer Feedback cards reflect a 93 percent satisfaction rate with both the screening process and the professional demeanor of TSA personnel.
Lessons Learned:
- Overall results indicate efficient checkpoint throughput with minimal customer inconvenience.
- Passengers were overwhelmingly receptive to the screening process.
- Providing a customer service representative on-site during all screening operations helped Amtrak ensure passengers received outstanding customer service.
- Skilled TSA screeners from the agency's National Screening Force were able to quickly transition to screening in the rail environment.
- Most importantly, Phase I showed that currently available technology could be utilized to screen for explosives in the rail environment.
