TSA installed acrylic barriers at Chicago O’Hare International Airport. (TSA photo)
CHICAGO – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has completed installation of new acrylic barriers at security checkpoints throughout Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) in the agency’s ongoing efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19.
More than 100 acrylic barriers were installed at all 54 security lanes across 11 checkpoints at ORD. The barriers are currently in place at the conveyor belts, travel document checker podiums, and Known Crew Member positions.
“These new acrylic barriers at our TSA checkpoints will help protect our TSA officers, passengers and crews,” said TSA’s Federal Security Director Dereck Starks. “Along with other
technologies to reduce or eliminate physical contact, TSA will continue to identify and implement changes to help minimize the spread of the virus.”
This is an ongoing project with more barriers being installed in the near future. TSA recently awarded a contract for acrylic barriers and associated equipment for installation at ORD security checkpoints and 36 other major airports nationwide.
The contract will provide an additional 1,230 acrylic barriers to augment temporary barriers already installed at various airports and will be completed by early autumn. The contract was awarded in June and additional barrier contracts will be awarded in September for remaining airport locations.
TSA continues to promote its “Stay Healthy. Stay Secure.” campaign designed to advise travelers of airport checkpoint modifications designed to contain the spread of COVID-19. Travelers are reminded to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) travel guidance as well as local and state advisories regarding COVID-19. For more information about the TSA response to COVID-19, please visit tsa.gov.