Airport security highlighted at Intersec 2013

Dubai: Airport security devices made a major appearance on Tuesday at Intersect 2013, the world’s second largest event for security and safety equipment.

The devices, which include luggage scanners, metal detectors, and intrusion alarm systems, come with new technological features that make them distinguishable from similar ones in the market, exhibitors said.

A luggage scanner at Al Fajer establishment’s stand can detect objects in a bag from many angles, unlike others in the local market that show objects from one angle, said Robin K. Varghese, technical support engineer in the company’s security, solutions and equipment division.

“This added feature is new in the market, and is expected to be available in Dubai Airport by October or November of this year,” he said.

In a nearby stall, there is another device new to the local market: the Orthos PIL-M06, a chamber with a sensor system that detects drugs and explosives. The detecting procedure is fast, taking only 25 seconds.

Ahmed Pauwels, an organiser of the event, indicated that there is a high demand for more efficient security measures in airports across the GCC, fuelled by the expansion of airports and the increase in passenger numbers.

The UAE’s spending on airport security was worth $8.6 million in 2009, and that is expected to rise to $57.7 million by 2015, according to statistics provided by the organisers.

Sarah Algethami is a trainee at Gulf News