U.S. Customs issues specs for CSDs

U.S. Customs issues specs for CSDs U.S. Customs and Border Protection has published its long-awaited technical requirements for a container security device.
   The agency has not signed off on the technology in the past for use in voluntary or mandatory cargo security programs because of stated concerns that the stresses of ocean and truck transport trigger too many nuisance alarms.
   The specifications are designed to help device makers come up with a product that meets CBP requirements for detecting and providing notice of intrusion through the container doors. The announcement is not a request for proposal, but simply a request for information to help the agency and vendors understand if any devices are able to meet the government’s standards.
   CBP said basic requirements are that the device:
   ' Detects door openings after it has been armed.
   ' Uses a non-proprietary and interoperable radio frequency wireless communications platform.
   ' Provides reads at the point of origin, a designated intermediate point such as a port, and the termination point.
   ' Provides high probability of detection.
   ' Provides low probability of false alarms.
   ' Provides low probability of critical failure.
   The requirements document specifically eliminates from consideration so-called electronic seals that are attached to the locking mechanism on the outside of the container. CBP said it wants devices that are mounted inside the container or trailer for security purposes. Other considerations are that the CSD not adversely affect normal shipping operations, installation or removal of the device doesn’t require special tools, and that it does not nullify ISO certification or decrease cargo capacity.
   CBP’s performance requirements are that the CSD be at least 95 percent accurate detecting actual door openings and that the combined false alarm and failure rate not exceed 4 percent of loads. The device must be able to communicate with a reader at a minimum distance of 100 feet, and 10 feet for a hand-held reader.
   The CSD is to include data elements such as the container ID number, the seal number, the manifest number, as well as trip and status information.
   CBP said it would hold open its request for information for 60 days.
   To read the summary and full document, visit the Federal Business Opportunities Web site at: www.fbo.gov/spg/DHS/USCS/PDDC20229/Reference%2DNumber%2DRFICSD/listing.html. ' Eric Kulisch