26th Sep 2007 07:03
Smiths Group PLC26 September 2007 Smiths Detection secures ten year BAA deal to revolutionise UK passengercheckpoints Deal includes world's first deployment of aTiX - the checkpoint X-ray machinethat can automatically detect explosives and liquids SMITHS Detection, part of the global technology business Smiths Group, todayannounces it has been selected by BAA as its long-term strategic partner in aten year deal that aims to enhance security levels at every passenger checkpointat BAA's seven UK airports (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Glasgow, Edinburgh,Aberdeen and Southampton). Starting immediately, Smiths Detection will replace all existing X-ray screeningsystems for passengers' hand baggage. The advanced systems to be deployedinclude the world's first deployment of aTiX (Advanced Threat IdentificationX-Ray), the checkpoint X-ray that can automatically detect explosives andliquids. This is the first time a new X-ray technology has been deployed at airportcheckpoints for a decade. aTiX is designed both to combat the evolving terrorthreat and to improve the passenger experience at checkpoints. aTiX replaces conventional X-ray systems with computerised machines that takemultiple views of a carry-on bag in the time it takes existing technology toshow a single view. Software algorithms process these images automaticallydetecting explosives and liquids. This represents a major step forward forcheckpoint security. aTiX is based on the technology used in EDtS (Explosive Detection TomographySystem), the Smiths Detection multi-view X-ray system for checked luggage. Bothsystems are described in the US as AT equipment - a term used to describeadvanced X-ray technologies. This contract is the first time AT machines havebeen approved for checkpoints. aTiX will be complemented by other new concepts, also developed by SmithsDetection, that will smooth the process of screening carry-on bags as part ofthe package for BAA. These include automatic tray return systems that minimiseoperator handling of trays, speed the movement of non-threat bags and divertsuspicious bags down a separate channel for further investigation. The deal - which is Smiths Detection's biggest ever UK airport contract with theinitial roll-out potentially worth over £20 million - includes other advancedsecurity technologies. Interest in aTiX machines by airport authorities is intense and most advanced inboth the UK and in the US where aTiX has been involved in major trials. Stephen Phipson, Group Managing Director of Smiths Detection, said: "This is animportant contract that will have global implications for aviation security. BAAhas taken a lead in passenger processing through its fundamental reappraisal ofthe screening process and setting a standard that other airports are soon likelyto follow. "Working with BAA we will achieve several goals, including considerably enhancedsecurity and improved passenger throughput, while reducing operator workload." Ian Hutcheson, Director of Security for BAA, said: "This strategic partnershipwith Smiths Detection is a groundbreaking agreement which will lead to enhancedsecurity standards at all BAA airports. "The contract will enable us to work in collaboration with Smiths Detection toensure continuous improvement in screening systems, including the application ofthe very latest technologies. "Heathrow Terminal 5 has been built with the passenger in mind and the firstapplication of the automated checkpoint system alongside aTiX is a clearfulfilment of our aim to improve our security processes." Smiths Detection is the world's leading provider of threat and contrabanddetection systems. Smiths Detection's technology is deployed at 85 per cent ofthe world's airports. ENDS HI-SCAN 6040aTiX The HI-SCAN 6040aTiX is a high-performance multi-view X-ray inspection systemthat in real-time automatically detects and pinpoints explosives as well asliquid substances in carry-on baggage. It uses technology based on SmithsDetection's hold baggage screening systems. About Smiths Detection Smiths Detection is part of the global technology business Smiths Group. Itoffers advanced integrated security solutions for customers in civil andmilitary markets worldwide and is a leading technology developer andmanufacturer of sensors that detect and identify explosives, chemical andbiological agents, weapons, and contraband. Its advanced technology securitysolutions also include Smiths Heimann X-ray imaging systems, millimeter-wavetechnology and a specialist software supply business for the management of largesensor and video surveillance networks. Separate business units focus on relatedproducts for the life sciences, and food manufacturing industries. For moreinformation visit www.smithsdetection.com About Smiths Group Smiths is a global technology company listed on the London Stock Exchange. Aworld leader in the practical application of advanced technologies, Smiths Groupdelivers products and services for the threat & contraband detection, medicaldevices, energy and communications markets worldwide. Our products and servicesmake the world safer, healthier and more productive. Smiths Group employs morethan 20,000 people in over 50 countries. For more information visitwww.smiths.com Investor Relations MediaRussell Plumley Laura Peek+44 (0)20 8457 8203 +44 (0)20 8457 8238 This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock ExchangeRelated Shares:
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