A new report by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) outlines proposed changes to its policies, procedures and operations based on the Nov. 1, 2013, shooting at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
The shooting that killed Transportation Security Officer Gerardo Hernandez and injured two other officers and a traveler at LAX prompted TSA to review its policies and procedures in an effort to enhance the safety and security at airports across the nation. The report, “Enhancing TSA Officer Safety and Security at Airports: Agency Actions and Path Forward,” outlines the actions TSA took immediately following the shooting and new procedures that will enhance the safety and security of TSA employees nationwide. With the participation and feedback from internal and external stakeholders, TSA was able to compile a comprehensive action plan that mandates active shooter training and exercises, recommends bi-annual training for airport employees and empathizes the importance of reinforcing emergency procedures.
The report outlines several significant changes that will improve security at checkpoints nationwide, including:
- Enhanced Training, Communications and Employee Support
- Mandatory active shooter training and exercises;
- Recommending bi-annual training for airport operators;
- Reinforcing emergency procedures through daily supervisor review and mandatory bi-annual evacuation drills;
- Keeping employees informed of actions taken;
- Providing ongoing access to grief counseling;
- Improving Federal Air Marshals notification regarding active shooter incidents; and
- Supporting changes to first responder policies and training in responding to active shooter incidents.
- Equipment and Technology
- Routinely testing existing alert notification capacity (“duress” alarms);
- Expanding duress coverage at screening locations across the country;
- Encouraging linkage of duress alarms to CCTV systems; and
- Using alternate local airport emergency phone numbers.
- Law Enforcement Officers at Checkpoints – Presence and Response
- Issuing recommended standards for law enforcement presence at checkpoints and ticket counters during peak travel times;
- Ensuring explicit inclusion of maximum response times in Airport Security Programs operating under a flexible response plan; and
- Extending the temporary redeployment of certain VIPR teams to airports.
Click here to view the report.