International Biometric Group (IBG) will reportedly conduct formal Qualified Product List (QPL) Testing of biometric access control systems for the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The QPL testing will begin in September 2008.
IBG, a premier independent developer and integrator of identification systems and solutions, provides end-to-end expert services for government and industry. The DHS and NIST have designated IBG as a qualified lab to conduct biometric device testing during the Transition Phase of the Biometrics for Access Control Qualified Products List. IBG will test several products including enrollment stations and biometric sensors/readers that can be deployed at airport access points to secure areas.
All the details related to the testing including the application forms, along with information on test fees, participation requirements, and schedules, are available at www.biometricgroup.com/QPL.
IBG will accept the applications for testing until August 31, 2008. IBG may also consider extending the application period based on the number of applications it receives.
According to IBG sources, products that successfully complete the qualification process will be included on the TSA Qualified Products List. The airport operators can then use the qualified products list to improve upon their existing access control systems by incorporating biometric technologies.
IBG refers to the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004, Title IV, Section 4011. The Act directs the TSA to issue guidance for use of biometric technology in airport access control systems, as well as establish a qualified products list of biometric technologies which meet standards set forth in the aforementioned guidance.
Anuradha Shukla is a contributing editor for TMCnet. To read more of Anuradha’s articles, please visit her columnist page.
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