SAA security system adopts zero tolerance policy

CUSTOMER DEMANDS for stricter security and greater efficiency have led South African Airways Cargo to upscale its warehouse operations throughout the country, says import manager Gideon Horn. "The real key to the success of it all has been the introduction of the Zebra software system. Developed in-house, it not only gives instant details of everything under our control in the warehouses, but offers so many valuable services to clients that it has bounced up our level of efficiency many stages. "For example, a single call to our call centre will enable the client to ascertain the charges involved in any consignment, which the system calculates automatically and displays. "I am satisfied that we now have at Johannesburg International Airport a world class warehouse facility which is also equipped with full freezer capabilities." The racking systems in the huge space available Ð 12 500sq/m for exports and 11 500sq/m for imports Ð interlink with the Zebra system to provide immediate notification of the positioning of goods within the racks. Instantaneous information is also available through a worldwide network, allowing for full track and trace. "One of the most interesting aspects of security in the facility," says Horn, "is the aggressive approach adopted by security personnel at every entrance and exit point. Full inspection of all permits is undertaken before any person is allowed to proceed beyond those points. "It doesn't matter who you are, the security is there to bar your movements," he added. "They see me every day of their lives, but I am still subjected to the same treatment as everyone else. It's a tough policy for some to accept, but it is essential. We cannot tolerate any opportunity for theft in these premises." Along with this there are 276 cameras positioned in the JIA warehouse and in excess of 1 000 in the network throughout the country. With 54 forklifts in operation at JIA, Horn is satisfied that the prompt service now offered to clients will improve even further as new training programmes are implemented. "We have also introduced a system where our top, regular customers get special attention from appointed supervisors in a dedicated handling area, which applies to both imports and exports." SAA Cargo's warehouse facilities at other stations in the country exceed 20 000sq/m, all under the same strict security.