SubscribeServiceTec wins two-year contract to install and maintain image capture system.
As airports uptake and implement secure systems, Manchester Airport has called upon ServiceTec Airport Services International to enhance and maintain its image capture system, and provide a short-term training programme for security staff.
Mike Fazackerley, General Manager Terminals 1 & 3 for Manchester Airport elaborates: "The image capture system allows airport and security staff an additional chance to verify passenger identification and is an essential part of meeting H M Customs requirements at the airport. Once we had decided to upgrade the system, ServiceTec worked with us to conduct the project in a timely and cost effect way, allowing minimal down time for the airlines."
Manchester Airport's image capture system provides a vital link in the processes required by H M Customs for the airport and works by taking a photo of the passenger at the security checkpoint before the boarding gates. The boarding pass is taken and a bar code printed on it - this is encoded with the photo information.
As the passenger goes 'air side' and finally reaches the boarding gate, the boarding pass is taken by the check-in staff at the gate and scanned using a scanner and workstation which brings up the original image - this enables a match between the photo and the person in front of him, thereby providing confirmation of accurate passenger processing and allowing peace of mind for fellow travellers.
ServiceTec has supplied the majority of the equipment needed including scanners and label dispensers, it deployed the software on to the system, installed and tested the hardware and will continue to service and maintain the system for the duration of its two year contract.
ServiceTec also recommended and installed total security enclosures for each of the workstations, to prevent tampering, misuse and theft, which would make the image capture system inoperable. Some of the work was carried out at night to ensure minimum disruption to the airlines, and the upgrade itself has run on time, encountering few problems.
Brian Shaw, Business Development Manager for ServiceTec Airport Services International commented, "It is important for airports to take an holistic view of secure systems. All parties involved must work in synergy to improve passenger throughput and safety. This is where ServiceTec plays a significant role as we are used to working with many partners, particularly in the installation of a new system or in training, and can provide central communication, planning and expertise."
ServiceTec has also undertaken a three-month project with Manchester Airport PLC to provide 580 Airport Security Officers (ASOs) and 40 Team Leaders with technical training. Trainers were brought in to bring security personnel up-to-date with hand-held PDAs that direct and record each ASO's security tour and logs reports and findings in real time.
Working closely with Manchester Airport's security team, ServiceTec has provided a flexible training programme - as some ASOs were only available during their night shift, the Trainers conducted the tuition 'on the job', walking with the ASOs on each security tour so that the technology can be used in real-life situations.
Martyn Davies from Manchester Airport is very happy with the results, "We have been very impressed with the dedication of the trainers and the quality of training they have provided. Our ASOs work on a shift basis and ServiceTec has provided a flexible training programme which has given all our staff the chance to get to grips with this new technology in the working environment."
