How Does the TSA Enhanced Security Measures Affect People with Disabilities?

Recently, the Transportation Security Administration implemented enhanced security measures at airports around the nation. All travelers entering the security area must be screened using either the advanced imaging technology machines or a pat-down. How will these enhanced security measures affect wheelchair users and other travelers with disabilities?

According to Joyce Green, a Contact Center agent with the Transportation Security Administration, both types of the advanced imaging machines (backscatter and millimeter wave) are not wheelchair accessible and will not be designed for use by those who use wheelchairs. Disabled travelers who cannot stand or walk a few feet will be screened using either a wand or a pat-down, described as "more intense than previous pat-downs".

Joyce advises travelers to inform TSA officers prior to screening if they have implants such as pacemakers, shunts, or pumps, because people with these devices cannot be screened using scanning technology such as the wand or the machines.

While those who opt out of both forms of screening (machine and pat-down) will not be allowed to fly, wheelchair users with limited or no use of their limbs will be allowed to fly even if an effective pat-down cannot be performed.

Travelers with anxiety conditions, intellectual or cognitive disabilities, those on the autism spectrum and others who are likely to be frightened or uncomfortable with either form of screening should inform TSA officers immediately upon entering the security area so that they can work together to alleviate any fear and stress that may occur.

As noted in a previous article, disability-related items, equipment and medications are allowed through security checkpoints and TSA agents have been trained to recognize most of them. Service animals are also permitted. Travelers with disabilities must inform TSA personnel that they have a service animal and not a pet. The individual and the animal will be escorted to the front of the line. It is recommended, but not required, that the animal have some form of identification designating it as a service animal. This could include a card, license, documentation or the presence of a harness. The person and the animal will not be separated, but that person must control it, as TSA personnel have been trained not to touch or to interact with the animal. If the animal does set off the metal detector or wand, the TSA officer will ask permission before performing a pat-down on it.

TSA agents have been trained to treat people with disabilities with dignity, equity and respect, but especially in these times of heightened alerts and dealing with a new and controversial screening system, there is always the chance of a mishap or misunderstanding. If anyone with a disability feels that she or he has been discriminated against or mistreated, they may ask to see a supervisor or file a complaint with the Transportation Security Administration or the Department of Justice.

Sources:

Green, Joyce, Personal Interview. November, 19, 2010

Travelers with Disabilities and Medical Conditions. Retrieved November, 19, 2010 from http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/specialneeds/index.shtm

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