Less Bang for the Buck: Maryland Mass Transit Authority Installs Early Warning Explosives Detection System
The integrated system was designed to detect explosives residue on passengers as they purchase tickets prior to passing through faregates. If a passenger tests positive for explosives, access to faregates is denied and security and law enforcement are alerted to the potential threat. The explosives analysis is completed in seconds and adds no additional time to the ticket transaction.
The EWEDS incorporates GE Security's ITMS trace technology and BroadWare's digital video platform.
When a passenger tests positive for explosives residue, a closeup digital image of that person managed and distributed by the BroadWare media platform is transmitted to one or more stationary or portable video displays that alert security personnel to intercept the individual and conduct additional screening tests. The alert includes the precise location of the gate that the person is attempting to enter.
A digital image is stored and distributed only when a passenger tests positive for explosives residue, to protect the privacy of others.
"This is another example of how BroadWare video surveillance solutions are being deployed in many sensitive government, military, commercial and transportation facilities to help prevent the tragic loss of life and property," said Bill Stuntz,
CEO of BroadWare Technologies. "As risks and threat levels have been elevated in recent months, the importance of automated threat detection, intelligent alerts and video-assisted interdiction in public venues has been underscored."
In addition to Cubic Corp. and GE Security (a wholly owned subsidiary of the General Electric Co.), the Baltimore MTA test also included the participation of the Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology unit, the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) and the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT).
