Smiths Detection’s cutting-edge integrated X-ray system with capability of auto-detecting explosives and weapons software was deployed for the first time during a simulated emergency preparedness exercise organised by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and its rail operators at HarbourFront Station, Singapore. The trial is part of an emergency preparedness exercise code named ‘Exercise Station Guard’ and is aimed at strengthening security in public places and building resilience against security threats to directly support the nationwide SGSecure movement.
The security system provided by Smiths Detection for the trial comprised of an integrated solution to screen commuters’ bags before they proceed to the station’s platform. This solution brings together advanced X-ray inspection capabilities, an automated clearance mode and remote screening to detect key threats such as concealed explosives or weapons. This unique automated clearance aims to clear the majority of bags that contain no obvious threats without human intervention; this allows X-ray image analysts to focus on bags that require attention hence there is a significant reduction in both manpower resources and screening times.
The solution comprised of the Hi-Scan 6040-2is, an advanced, dual-view X-ray inspection system, which uses sophisticated algorithms to automatically detect solid and liquid; And Pro, a modular checkpoint tray conveyor to facilitate commuters’ bag handling; Icmore Weapons, the object recognition software that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically detect knives, guns, gun parts and also remote X-ray analysts that screened bags and identified those requiring recheck to ensure threats were thoroughly screened for.
Shipping executive, AB. Kadir binte Mohammad Yusof, a commuter who participated in the security screening exercise, commented that the process felt seamless and took less time than expected. “Instructions provided for commuters were clear, and the bag check process was hassle-free, taking about 30 seconds. I definitely see the value in security screening to safeguard travel for commuters here in Singapore.”
