Secure Automobile Inspection Lanes
SAIL II Overview
On August 29, 2005, TSA in launched the SAIL II (Secure Automated Inspection Lanes) pilot program in Larkspur, Calif. in cooperation with the U.S. Coast Guard and Golden Gate Ferry, TSA designed the program to test readily available portable screening equipment and explosive detection technologies for possible deployment during periods of heightened threat. The test was conducted weekdays, Monday through Friday, for a period of 30 days.
SAIL II deployed Explosives Detection Document Scanners manufactured by Smith’s Detection to test ferry passengers for positive traces of explosives. Golden Gate ferry passengers received a card from TSA Security Officers, and when instructed, handed the card to a TSA officer so it could be analyzed by the document scanner for any trace elements of explosive materials.
The equipment can detect explosive residue on papers or documents within seconds and is capable of screening approximately 16 passengers per minute. Passengers not cleared during primary screening received additional screening by TSA officers.
The program yielded positive results and provided TSA with the data necessary to potentially deploy this technology to a ferry terminal or other transportation facility in a targeted fashion should intelligence dictate a need. TSA is currently working with the Coast Guard and ferry operators to determine what additional use of the technology may be appropriate.
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