San Francisco International Airport started evaluating the use of a 100% Explosive Detection System (EDS) immediately after the September 11, 2001 attacks, when it became clear that the lower levels of x-ray technology currently being utilized were obsolete. The $16 million project, which became part of the airport’s master plan, installed 15 CTX 9000 devices to replace the baggage security system. The new devices capability allowed the screening of 15,000 bags per day per unit.

The 100% EDS project was initiated in October 2002, and work was fast-tracked to meet the December 31, 2002 deadline. The project included both permanent EDS installations, and temporary installations in baggage areas and terminal lobbies adjacent to the airline ticket counters. The system as installed was the first fully automated inline baggage handling system with screening accomplished in a single screening room. The project reduced the tremendous manual to automatic processing cost per bag significantly.

EPC provided Construction Management services for the project.