Smiths Detection, a pioneer in threat detection and security screening technologies, and a business of Smiths Group, announces that its state-of-the-art IONSCAN 600 detectors will be tested by the Polish railway, PKP Group.
The six-month pilot, the first in Poland, will help develop standards for future anti-terrorism and anti-sabotage systems, strengthening the protection of critical infrastructure. The equipment was loaned by the Directorate General for Home Affairs and Migration (DG HOME) of the European Commission, which initiated the project.
Develop security practices
The IONSCAN 600 detectors will be used to assess and develop security practices for the railway system, with a particular focus on strengthening anti-terrorism and anti-sabotage measures. These detectors, which use scanning strips to identify explosives and hazardous substances, will be used in random screenings of baggage and cargo at selected train stations, on trains, and at cargo terminals.
The goal is to implement security protocols similar to those already in place at airports, ensuring comprehensive protection of critical infrastructure.
Workshop held at Warszawa Central station
Live demonstrations of the IONSCAN 600’s capabilities took place at key locations
To kick off the initiative, a workshop was held at Warszawa Central station, attended by representatives from the European Commission, Smiths Detection, the Polish Police, Border Guard, Railway Security Services, and PKP Group.
Live demonstrations of the IONSCAN 600’s capabilities took place at key locations, including PKP Intercity trains and the PKP CARGO Connect terminal, showcasing the effectiveness of the detectors in real-world scenarios.
Shaping future security standards
The European Commission and Smiths Detection will use the test to provide valuable insights to refine operational requirements for the use of these devices in the railway environment.
The results will contribute to the Commission's efforts to establish standardised security protocols for railway systems across Europe. These findings will also help define the future development of anti-terrorism and anti-sabotage technologies tailored for the rail sector.
Poland becomes the sixth country to test this technology as part of the EU’s wider railway security initiative, following similar trials in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Slovakia, and Romania. The operational feedback from these tests will be instrumental in shaping future security practices and devices for the rail industry.
Enhancing border security
In addition to its railway testing, the IONSCAN 600 detectors will also be deployed by the Polish Border Guard at key border crossings with Ukraine and Belarus.
These devices are capable of detecting both explosives and dangerous chemical substances and can identify whether an individual has come into contact with these materials or with weapons. This capability is particularly important in securing the EU’s external borders.
Identifying security threats
This initiative aims to expand the use of advanced threat detection technologies beyond aviation
The IONSCAN 600 testing in Poland is part of the European Commission’s broader Counter-Terrorism Plan (CT Agenda), launched in 2020 to strengthen the security of public infrastructure across the EU.
This project is part of a series of ongoing detection trials aimed at developing balanced security solutions in collaboration with manufacturers, operators, and law enforcement, addressing both facilitation and security concerns.
This initiative aims to expand the use of advanced threat detection technologies beyond aviation, with a focus on harmonising standards for the protection of public spaces. The programme also supports the voluntary adoption of EU-wide standards for detection equipment, ensuring that technologies like the IONSCAN 600 are effective at identifying security threats while enabling the free movement of people and goods.
Rail safety standards
Matthew Clark, VP Commercial, Smiths Detection, said of this initiative: "This pilot programme is a vital step toward enhancing rail safety standards, which are essential in today’s evolving threat landscape. By testing the IONSCAN 600 in real-world rail environments, we’re not only expanding the applications of our technology beyond aviation, but also helping shape the future of security for critical infrastructure across Europe."
He adds, "Our commitment is to provide reliable, cutting-edge solutions that safeguard public spaces, and this project is a testament to that vision."
European Commission’s Counter-Terrorism Plan
The European Commission’s Counter-Terrorism Plan is part of an ongoing effort to bolster the EU's overall security posture.
In 2019, the EU Railway Safety Platform adopted a set of best practices for rail safety, including the use of mobile detection devices for random and targeted checks. These initiatives are designed to address emerging threats and create a more secure and resilient Europe.
