Lake Charles, La., October 16, 2009 — U.S. Customs and Border Protection recently unveiled the first radiation portal monitors at the Port of Lake Charles. These tools are designed to detect radiation found in materials used in radiological and nuclear devices that might be smuggled into the United States.
“RPMs are just one component in our layered defense. Intelligence analysis, a highly trained and dedicated workforce, and partnership with the trade community are also key elements to ensure port security,” said Robert C. Gomez, CBP
The portal monitors now in operation act as a receiving antenna to detect radiation sources. A radiation portal monitor is a detection device that provides CBP with a passive, non-intrusive means to screen trucks and other conveyances for the presence of nuclear and radiological materials.
These systems are capable of detecting radiation emanating from nuclear devices, dirty bombs, special nuclear materials, natural sources, and isotopes commonly used in medicine and industry. They are completely safe for anyone passing by them; they are passive “detectors” of radiation, not emitters of radiation.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.
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