Embodying the next step in the United States’ intensified airport security following Sept. 11, over 30 federal screeners began work last week at the Dane County Regional Airport.

Congress passed a law after Sept. 11 mandating federal screeners had to begin working in all airports by Nov. 19.

Federal screeners must complete a minimum of 40 hours of classroom training, pass an exam and undergo 60 hours of on-the-job training. While on duty, the screeners conduct random searches of passengers and inspect passengers who set off metal-detector alarms.

Dave Jensen, director of the Dane County Regional Airport, said the next phase of security measures mandates that, by Dec. 31, all bags will be scanned for explosives. Screeners currently check for traces of explosive particles on baggage using explosive-trace detection machines.

The screeners swipe bags with a piece of cloth, which is then scanned for explosive particles.
Jensen said the current system is temporary, and ultimately bags will be scanned in line; however, the temporary baggage-check system and the airport’s current construction to expand the terminal will complicate the check-in process.

“Quick processing time is one of our goals,” Jensen said. “It will be congested and inconvenient for a while, but if everybody bears with us, we promise signature service.”

University of Wisconsin student Tim Sherman said he found Dane County Airport security to be annoying but necessary.

Sherman said he was randomly searched and had to take off his shoes while security screeners checked his carry-on bag.

“Random searches are a good precautionary measure, except when they do it to me,” Sherman said. “It’s a bit of a hassle.”

Jensen said the airport has not loosened its security policies since Bush lowered the terror alert Sept. 24.

“I doubt we will ever go back,” Jensen said.