Training for transportation security officers, the screeners who inspect airline passengers and baggage, needs improving, according to a report by the Homeland Security Department's inspector general. The inspector general's office said its recommendations, "if implemented, would improve the agency's management of its screening workforce training program."
The study, completed in October, was released by Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-Miss.), chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Recommendations included in the study call for better documentation of the training program, creation of formal on-the-job training, use of equipment in training classrooms that is similar to equipment used at checkpoints and in checked baggage areas and a study on the time needed for TSOs to complete required training.
The inspector general's study found that the Transportation Security Administration "may not always provide TSOs with the equipment and support they need to effectively complete required training." It also said, "TSA does not ensure that TSOs are provided the time they need to effectively complete training requirements" and "the agency has not articulated a standard methodology to keep its training material current and relevant."
