Description of PAS 127:2014 2014

This PAS gives guidance and recommendations for checkpoint security screening of people, and their bags and possessions, for non-regulated applications. This includes both permanent and temporary installations at government and private buildings, events and sporting venues in public spaces or on private land. The PAS focuses on the detection of weapons and explosive threat items but the methodology can equally be applied to address other threats that an organization may face.

This PAS is primarily aimed at anyone who has responsibility for planning and/or delivering security operations at venues in either the private or public sector. It will also be of interest to equipment manufacturers, procurement managers and policy makers. This document provides a framework for assessing risk and identifying screening requirements, and then specifying and delivering appropriate solutions. Key benefits and limitations of common screening methods and technologies are also summarized. The PAS has been deliberately kept flexible; users may tailor the recommendations to suit the particular requirements of their own organization or event, whilst still adhering to the principles of good practice.

Security checkpoints rarely operate in isolation; recommendations for checkpoint screening are presented in the wider context of the organization’s security systems as a whole. These systems may, for example, include physical security measures such as closed-circuit TV surveillance (CCTV), and access control and personnel security, which may include accreditation of staff and visitors.

Security staff form an integral part of any security system. Staff responsibilities are considered at all levels, from senior managers responsible for security or the commissioning of security services, through to the staff who carry out screening of individuals and bags or possessions. The importance of effective and relevant training of staff, maintaining staff motivation and ongoing monitoring of performance is also discussed.

Aviation and other transport security screening are outside the scope of the PAS since these are subject to separate national and international regulation. However, it is important to note that nothing in the current PAS conflicts with well-established aviation security screening procedures. Rather this document seeks to build on the best practices of aviation and other regulated transport security and to apply these to the non-regulated environment where appropriate. Where gaps have been identified new guidance is provided.

Whilst the prime focus of the PAS is screening for explosives and weapons, the screening procedures described can be adapted to detect or mitigate other types of threat such as:

1. chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear (CBRN) materials;

2. other illicit substances, such as narcotics;

3. other items or materials that the organization might wish to prohibit on safety or security grounds, such as alcohol or medicines;

4. items that may cause inconvenience or nuisance (such as musical instruments);

5. theft of physical assets;

6. industrial espionage;

7. public disorder or criminal activity.

This PAS does not cover:

1. vehicle screening;

2. mail screening (this is covered in PAS 97:2012, A specification for mail screening and security);

3. defensive search of buildings or sites.

   NOTE Although specific CBRN screening technologies and methods are beyond the scope of this PAS, measures associated with screening for explosives and weapons can also reduce the risk of CBRN threat items. If, following risk assessment, CBRN threat items are considered likely, expert advice should be sought.

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