MSA Security Offers X-ray Interpretation Training E-Course to Support On-Site Explosive Screening Efforts

NEW YORK, Oct. 31, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- MSA Security ("MSA"), a global high consequence threat security firm, in partnership with 360Training.com^®, a worldwide leader in e-learning, today announced that it will be offering Customized Online X-ray Screener Training, a course available starting November 15, 2018. This course offers an accessible, convenient and cost-effective method for organizations to strengthen and enhance their explosive screening techniques for mail rooms, loading docks, checkpoints, cargo hubs, and any other locations where X-ray interpretation is conducted.

The Online Screener Training course was developed by MSA's team of 40 FBI trained and certified bomb technicians and implemented using 360Training.com^®'s advanced e-learning expertise and platform. The curriculum provides unprecedented insight into real-world scenarios focusing on X-ray interpretation, explosives recognition, Improvised Explosive Device ("IED") awareness, and more. The state-of-the-art online learning management system also offers robust tracking and reporting, and is flexible to accommodate updates of the latest emerging threats, as well as timely topics of interest to create a unique industry informational resource.

Accessible via the web, this online program contains dynamic content, including:

• X-ray History and Safety;
• X-ray Physics;
• Improvised Explosive Devices;
• Principles of Screening;
• Practices of Screening; and
• Review and Testing

"The recent high profile incidents of suspicious packages with pipe bombs in our mail system demonstrates the necessity of quality X-ray screening capabilities," said Glen Kucera, Chief Executive Officer of MSA Security. "X-ray screening technology is a critical part of an effective layered security plan, and while this technology plays an essential role in explosive detection capabilities, experienced and well-trained screeners are just as essential. You can have the best technology on the market, but if you don't know how to use it correctly, you won't know how to identify a threat."

Mr. Kucera explained that misinterpretation of suspicious items is a costly liability – it can lead to unnecessary evacuations, operational inefficiencies, or, in the worst case, the mishandling of a true explosive threat. "Our online X-ray screening course aims to equip screeners with the tools and experience they need to effectively identify threats, keep people safe, deliver peace of mind, and minimize business disruptions. Our clients have been asking for this e-learning solution for screeners that are more geographically dispersed and may not have had access to such training capabilities previously," he added.

The Online X-ray Screener Training is based on MSA's classroom training courses, which have been conducted for 31 years. MSA replicates the methodology and devices of recent attacks to ensure the training addresses real world scenarios such as the recent pipe bomb mailings. Instructors continuously update the extensive library of X-ray images to reflect these scenarios. MSA trains on PIES (acronym for Power, Initiator, Explosive, and Source), as all of these elements together may comprise an IED. MSA will continue to offer additional live classroom and on-site training sessions delivered by subject matter experts, in addition to this online course. 

"With an emphasis on information retention, 360training.com^® utilizes the latest instructional design techniques to ensure that our users, in this case X-ray screeners, retain the course material long after completion. We incorporate interactive animations and cognitive media to keep users engaged throughout the duration of the training program. For employers and learners, 360training.com^® has developed a robust Learning Management platform that makes learning, reporting and tracking simple and easy," said Muddassir Katchi, VP of Products at 360training.com^®.   

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 over 1,000 employees—including over 500 explosive detection canine teams—operating in 42 states and 42 countries. The firm offers a range of customizable solutions, including explosive detection, protective services, intelligence, investigations and consulting. For more information, visit msasecurity.net.

About 360Training
360training.com^® (Austin, TX) was founded in 1997 to provide individuals and organizations regulatory-approved training, enabling a safe and healthy environment for the communities they serve. Over the years, the company has trained millions of users and has continued to grow its expansive library of regulatory-approved training courses with new content suited for the modern workforce. Today 360training.com also partners with companies across various industries such as food & beverage, construction, utilities and real estate to help employers provide the right training and certifications for their people.  By offering these courses online, all 360training.com users experience the convenience, flexibility and confidence of earning their certifications for anywhere in their own time.  For more information, visit www.360training.com.

SOURCE MSA Security