NEW YORK, April 11, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- MSA Security^® ("MSA"), a global high consequence threat protection firm, announced its status as a platinum member of the Airforwarders Association (AfA) yesterday. The AfA is the premier trade association for the air forwarding industry, comprised of indirect air carriers, cargo airlines, air forwarders, warehouse operators, and industry suppliers.

"Aviation remains a top national security priority," MSA CEO, Glen Kucera commented. "With TSA's Certified Cargo Security Program – Canine (CCSP-K9) under way, MSA's role in this industry is more important than ever. Our platinum AfA membership enables us to engage with the industry in new ways, sharing valuable insight and expertise on explosive detection and mitigation for industry stakeholders."  

MSA Security has been actively engaged with the aviation industry since 2012 through the provision of top tier Explosive Detection Canine Teams, known as Windsor Teams. MSA has deployed dozens of teams in TSA regulated environments for over 3 years, and worked closely with the agency in the development of its third party canine screening program. The company is currently the only provider of Explosive Detection Canine teams approved under CCSP-K9 with platinum AfA membership.

Years of research have proven that properly trained canines are the most effective and efficient method of explosive detection screening. They offer versatility and cost savings in any air cargo sort or freight environment. With the roll out of TSA's CCSP-K9 program, their presence is expected to permeate the air cargo industry, increasing both security and efficiency.

MSA's industry leading program was the first explosive detection canine service to be certified under the Department of Homeland Security SAFETY Act. With over 650 teams, the company maintains the largest SAFETY Act Certified fleet in the industry. Teams are supported by an infrastructure of six ATF licensed training facilities strategically located near cargo hubs nationwide. These facilities support routine training and testing on high explosives, highly regulated by the ATF but critical for successful training. MSA also maintains an international footprint with offices around the world and their global team of experts are working with industry stakeholders ahead of the anticipated ICAO 2021 standards for all-cargo screening.

AfA Executive Director, Brandon Fried, notes, "Security is a top concern for members of our association. Approximately 78 million tons of cargo was shipped in 2018, and regulations require 100% of that cargo to be screened for explosives. We are excited to have an experienced and validated provider like MSA Security join our association. MSA was a critical participant in the implementation of TSA's third party canine screening program, and is sure to enhance our preparation for 2021 ICAO mandates as well."

Platinum membership in AfA offers opportunities for industry advocacy, education, networking, advertisements, conference participation, webinars, and various promotional opportunities.

About MSA Security
Founded in 1987, MSA Security is a global security firm with more than 30 years of experience protecting enterprise-level facilities from high consequence threats. MSA is headquartered in New York City and has more than 1,300 employees—including over 650 explosive detection canine teams—operating in 42 states and 42 countries. The firm offers a range of customizable solutions, including explosive detection services, protective services, intelligence, investigations and consulting. For more information, visit msasecurity.net.

Media Contact:
Miranda Tomic
MTomic@msasecurity.net 
212-509-1336 x 296

SOURCE MSA Security

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