Edmonton Transit Hosts Security Technology Pilot Project

June 19, 2012

3-week test to help enhance national public safety

The City of Edmonton is hosting a transit security technology pilot project. The pilot brings together federal, municipal and industry partners to test cutting-edge security technology on the Edmonton Transit System (ETS).

“We are excited to be working with these partners to test technology in a mass transit environment that will ultimately serve to enhance public safety on transit systems across the country,” said Ron Gabruck, Director of ETS Operational Support. “ETS is constantly seeking ways to improve security and we are proud to contribute to research and development efforts to make citizens safer everywhere.”

The pilot project involves a 3-week test period during which sensors that detect explosive and radioactive materials will be installed in ticket vending and validating machines in Churchill LRT Station in downtown Edmonton. The project team will use safe versions of explosive and radioactive materials to trigger the sensors and set off silent alarms that transmit security bulletins to mobile devices held by security personnel.

The project’s goal is to determine how well the technology works in a safe, real-life transit environment while minimizing impediments to passenger flow.

“ETS is working in collaboration with other emergency responders to test this exciting new technology while taking advantage of the opportunity to review our response protocols,” said Gabruck. “We realize that we are part of something larger here, as the success of this project could influence developments to make public transit safer worldwide.”

The technology is completely safe and poses no risk to the public. There is no identified security threat to ETS or to Edmonton.

The pilot is funded through a federal public safety and security science and technology program led by the Defence R&D Canada – Centre for Security Science (DRDC CSS).

DRDC CSS is one of 8 research centres under Defence Research and Development Canada. It provides expertise in response to public safety and national security priorities.

 

For more information:

Graeme McElheran

Transportation Services
City of Edmonton

Title	Senior Communications Advisor
Telephone	780-944-6485
Email	graeme.mcelheran@edmonton.ca

Danya Vidosa

Defence R&D Canada

Title	Communications Advisor, Centre for Security Science
Telephone	613-944-8167
Email	danya.Vidosa@drdc-rddc.gc.ca

Jan Stevens

Cubic Corporation

Title	Corporate Communications Manager
Telephone	858-505-2174
Email	jan.stevens@cubic.com

Chris Clarke

Mobile Detect Inc.

Title	President
Telephone	647-705-8774
Email	cclarke@mobiledetect.com