R9-m investment reduces SAA claims to almost zero

Upgrade of X-ray scanners the next priority Clive Watts . . . bar code system has been a huge success story. GLOBAL AND local security concerns have seen a tightening up of procedures by South African Airways Cargo which has invested heavily in systems to ensure compliance at every level. It’s a policy that has paid dividends, according to executive manager: national operations, Clive Watts, who has been one of the key drivers of the airline’s risk management policy. Access control has been a major focus and considerable expense has been invested in control of vehicles moving in and out of the airline’s facilities countrywide. The introduction of a radio-frequency, time-sensitive bar code system has been a huge success story, says Watts. Clients are identified by a photo and bar code that enables them to draw cargo. “We no longer deliver against an ID document, and that’s made an enormous difference.” Closed Circuit Television in all warehouses and buildings has also played a big role. “It’s been a big expense but has reduced our claims almost to a zero level.” The CCTV has been implemented over a period of three to four years at a cost in excess of R9-million at all stations country-wide, says Watts. Automated systems within the warehouse have also succeeded in extending the recording ability of shipments, says Watts. “Ensuring accuracy of cargo weights is critical for aviation safety, and using automated scales and hoists that have scaling ability enables us to keep tabs on weights all along the production line. “Cargo is moving into an environment where more demands are being forced onto airlines, particularly passenger load aircraft because of the 911 tragedy,” says Watts. “The next phase for us is the upgrade of our X-ray scanning equipment. It will be a big expense, but the scanning of a greater volume of cargo than at present will be a future imperative.” The airline is currently looking at suppliers.