Jason Wakefield, Sales Director at Todd Research:
Many event managers and venue owners believe that simply deploying the correct security equipment will keep their staff and visitors safe. However, unfortunately that is not always enough. Operators of X-ray scanners need to know how to properly use a machine, and they must be able to recognise the difference between images of an electronic Christmas card and a potential threat – a skill that requires training. Todd Research, a provider in X-ray scanners, has therefore been offering operator tutorials for several years and, in response to customer demand, it recently added online courses to its services.
Security equipment is constantly evolving; today’s X-ray scanners have unparalleled resolution and are supported by powerful software that helps flag suspicious items. However, advanced technology cannot replace knowledge, and even the best equipment won’t perform at its best if the operator doesn’t know how to use it.
Todd Research understands that the security industry needs proper operator training, something that the company has been providing for several years. Historically, this was usually through face-to-face meetings, either in tandem with a maintenance visit or on request. However, in response to the current COVID situation, and to make training more accessible to remote clients, Todd Research has introduced two new online courses. These are aimed at operators of conveyor- or cabinet-type X-ray scanners and consist of four chapters. At the end of each section, the participants’ knowledge is evaluated to ensure that no valuable information has been missed. The training ends with a rigorous visual test checking their ability to spot dangerous items. No mistakes can be allowed, so only a 100 % score leads to a ‘pass’. While currently there are no rules regarding operator training, Todd Research continues to set extremely high standards, hoping that others will be inspired to do the same.
Founded in 1950, Todd Research has a history of designing, manufacturing and supplying X-ray scanners, metal detectors and blast suppression equipment across a diverse range of public and private market channels.
Media contact
Rebecca Morpeth Spayne,
Editor, Security Portfolio
Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922
Email: [email protected]
