Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers detected a record number of firearms at airport security checkpoints this year, establishing a 20-year record with three months remaining in the calendar year and fewer passengers traveling due to the pandemic.

The credential authentication technology unit scans passenger ID in place of a boarding pass at the security checkpoint.

It’s challenging to find feasible solutions to an ongoing risk of flight attendants and frontline transportation workers being subject to workplace violence or physical altercations with customers or the public. Risk professionals should ensure these employees have access to self-defense training and others tools, as well as look to implement a zero-tolerance policy for passenger disruptions.

The Transportation Security Administration will resume self-defense classes for flight attendants and pilots after not having the training for more than a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The classes come as the airlines deal with a surge in cases of unruly passengers and violent behavior on flights.