Smiths Detection supplies security solutions for Commonwealth Games

The Commonwealth Games will attract over one million visitors between 28 July and 8 August, highlighting the importance of implementing the highest levels of security screening capabilities to ensure the safety of guests, athletes, volunteers and fans alike.

The X-ray systems supplied by Smiths Detection are being used to screen sporting equipment, incoming goods and the belongings of attendees at the Games including visitors, athletes and their support teams. Ahead of the Commonwealth Games, Smiths Detection delivered thorough training for over 400 security operators.

Smiths Detection has also supplied both the IONSCAN 600, for trace detection of explosives and narcotics, and the BioFlash (a biological aerosol identifier capable of detecting SARS CoV-2 from air samples) to help further enhance the security and safety of staff and attendees.

In line with the Games’ carbon neutral legacy and circular economy ambitions, the equipment supplied by Smiths Detection for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games emanates from its rental service, drastically reducing emissions that would have been created from the manufacture of new equipment, while any emissions resulting from Smiths Detection equipment during the Commonwealth Games will be offset through a Midlands-based environmental organisation.

Safety and security

Nick Knight, Birmingham 2022’s director of security, explained: “The safety and security of our athletes, spectators and overall venues is of critical importance to us and the success of Birmingham 2022. We’re delighted to welcome Smiths Detection as a supplier due to its track record in leading security screening solutions. I know the company’s knowledge and experience will prove invaluable when helping Birmingham 2022 in showcasing a safe, secure and spectacular edition of the Games to the world.”

Smiths Detection’s president Roland Carter stated: “We have worked closely with the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games team to ensure that we’re supplying equipment that not only meets their security requirements, but helps the organisers to achieve their ambition of being the first Net Zero Games. We’re proud to be playing a critical role in the smooth operation of the event by helping to create a safe environment for attendees, athletes and staff.”

Products in use

HI-SCAN 6046si – Used for the screening of the belongings of visitors to the Games. This X-ray unit is ideal for screening personal belongings and cabin baggage at aviation checkpoints and building entrances.

HI-SCAN 100100V – Used for the screening of equipment and goods coming into the Games. The X-ray unit permits the inspection of bulky as well as small items without any loss of X-ray image quality.

BioFlash Biological Identifier – The biothreat detector provides rapid, biological aerosol collection and identification in a compact unit. Capable of detecting a number of pathogens such as SARS CoV-2, Anthrax, ricin, botulinum toxin, black plague, tularemia and smallpox.

IONSCAN 600 – IONSCAN 600 is a highly sensitive, non-radioactive, lightweight and portable desktop system that detects and identifies trace amounts of explosives and narcotics.