Although the COVID-19 pandemic has altered most daily functions worldwide, things will eventually come under control. When they do, people will start booking their long-awaited flights, and airports will become cramped up again. How can airports ensure safety during those times?
According to experts, travelling during the pandemic poses several risks from contact while storing luggage, touching surfaces, and going to the bathroom. The risks remain in the airport, too, since there are multiple points that a traveller has to pass. Airport management can start working on a safety plan while waiting for travel bans to lift or ensure extra safety during essential travel. This would include security in different aspects, from identity protection to health.
Upgrade Security System
Airports security is one of the most crucial aspects of maintaining safety. Although the security in most airports is already advanced, it might be helpful to take extra measures post-pandemic if some people are still travelling with masks and need to be identified. Airports can improve security by using technologically advanced ID cards printed with compatible ribbon products to differentiate between levels of security.
Ribbon ink is a printing technology that transfers ink to paper and alternative coloured dyes inside a cartridge. Not all printers use ribbons. But, the ones that use them can produce specialized ID cards for maximum airport security. Creating ID cards with ribbon products can allow the airport to customize the ID cards for each level of protection so that no visitors can enter unauthorized areas.
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Install Sanitizing Stations
Identification is an essential part of travelling, but health safety is just as important during this time. Since airports will consist of people from different corners of the globe, there must be sanitization stations all around the airport. The station must include sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, and masks.
Creating stops for safety where all passengers are required to sanitize their hands properly will enhance safety and reduce the spread of germs.
Encourage Mobile Use for Most Functions
Even though technology has enabled access to various functions such as checking in and viewing boarding passes on the phone, some people still prefer old-school methods that increase human contact. Not checking in beforehand or using a physical copy of the boarding pass increases communication between people. If airports encourage people to use their phones for these services primarily, there is a lower risk for germ spread. Even contact with a machine can be harmful since multiple people will touch the same surface. The safest method is for everyone to use their phones.
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Train Staff to Follow Protocols
Since the airport employees will handle all the tasks related to safety, it is essential to train them to operate every step of the way. Although all security personnel probably go through a training procedure, some things may differ after the pandemic. Airports can create a mandatory course that teaches them how to encourage sanitizing stations and mobile functions.
Although travel may be discouraged for a while, some people may still need to fly for essential work. An airport must take every possible measure to enhance safety for travellers and staff members.
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