Carnival Cruise Line is adding 3D x-ray security scanning at nine of its North American cruise ports, bringing the latest technology for travel and facility security to the cruise industry.
VOTI Detection, a Canadian firm based in Montreal, took the contract for 91 of its 3D scanning units. VOTI president and CEO Rory Olson said in a statement that the design's durability in a maritime environment was a key factor, along with remote diagnosis capability and advanced imaging capability.
VOTI claims that its equipment enhances detection and speeds up screening by giving operators a 3D view of the scanned object. The scanners save the imaging files in a format that allows them to be re-analyzed later if needed.
"The addition of VOTI technology will enhance our existing security platforms," commented Dominick Froio Jr., Carnival Cruise Line's VP of security services. "The safety and security of our guests and crew is our top priority and the opportunity to deploy VOTI's 3D perspective imaging brings X-Ray screening to a new level of effectiveness and will ensure that we continue to lead the way when it comes to safety."
Carnival has already begun deploying the units and expects to complete the rollout by the end of this month.
Carnival Cruise Line also uses a visual identification security access system to restrict access to its ships to authorized passengers and crew. The system records the movement of guests and crew who enter and exit the ship and requires the capture of a security photo. In addition, a keycard system is used to identify authorized persons and control access during port calls.
Carnival's security protocol also includes a thorough document check. Since 2016, Carnival Corporation has partnered with Interpol to check the validity of passenger travel documents with Interpol's I-Checkit global security systems. This database allows Carnival to compare passengers' passports and other travel documents against a list of about 70 million lost or stolen IDs. “As the world’s largest cruise company carrying hundreds of thousands of daily passengers, having a highly effective and efficient security screening process is a crucial part of how we serve our guests every day," said Bill Burke, Carnival Corporation's chief maritime officer, in announcing the partnership.
Source:maritime-executive
