Transit and Rail Inspection Pilot Program Description

The Transit and Rail Inspection Pilot (TRIP) is a first-time rail security technology study conducted by the Department of Homeland Security in partnership with the Department of Transportation, Amtrak, MARC, and Metro. The goal of the pilot is to evaluate the use of emerging technologies in a rail environment to screen passengers and their carry-on items for explosives.

Beginning May 4, 2004, TSA will evaluate various explosives screening processes on certain Amtrak and MARC passenger operations at the New Carrollton station. TSA and its partners will strive to minimize the inconvenience to passengers during the study period.

The Screening Process

During the morning and evening commutes, screening of both passengers and their bags will occur. You may be asked to do one or all of the following:

• If you have carry-on bags, outer coats and jackets, hats, and laptop computers in their cases, place them on the conveyor belt, where they will be screened. Your bag may receive additional screening as necessary.
• When you walk through the screening portal, you will need to stand still for a few seconds. During that time, you will feel several quick "puffs" of air. This is normal and is part of the screening process. A computerized voice will tell you when to proceed. If necessary, you may receive additional screening.
• If persons require the use of the elevator to access the platform, they and their carry-on items can be screened in the vicinity of the elevator.

For Amtrak and MARC passengers

TSA will be screening for explosives. Amtrak law enforcement personnel will respond to any instance in which firearms or illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia are found during the screening process.

Since the pilot program is focused on screening for explosives, unlike airport screening, cell phones, keys, change and other metal objects may remain with you.

Metro

A Metro canine unit will be conducting operations at the New Carrollton station in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security.