New Rule In Effect Nationwide

TSA's Aviation Direct Access Screening Program went into effect Thursday for airport workers. For the first time, the TSA will randomly screen workers before and after they are allowed into secure areas of the airport.

Up to now, baggage handlers, janitors and food vendors were vetted via background checks prior to hiring, then issued an ID allowing unrestricted access.

Security consultant Charles Slepian told the Tampa Herald Tribune, "I've been lobbying for the screening of airport personnel since before 9/11. It's one of the gaping holes in aviation security."

TSA won't reveal details of the program, however one TSA notice, issued by the federal security director in Los Angeles, said screeners would look for explosives, improvised explosives or their components, firearms and ammunition, lighters and matches and hazardous materials.

The new procedures are a direct response to this summer's attempted terrorist attack on US-bound aircraft. Inspectors with Scotland Yard arrested several men plotting to explode homemade bombs on those planes over the Atlantic.

CBS reports some of those arrested were workers at London's Heathrow Airport.

FMI: www.tsa.gov