X-ray cargo inspection for enhancing the maritime safety and security: a case study of international container ports
by Hokey Min; Yong-Kon Lim; Jong-Won Park
International Journal of Logistics Systems and Management (IJLSM), Vol. 16, No. 1, 2013

Abstract: As the international container traffic continues to rise, there is a growing concern over the potential exploitation of cargo containers as means of terror and other illegal activities. Though relatively sturdy and easier to handle, a cargo container for international traffic poses a greater security risk, since it may be used to smuggle contraband, narcotics, terrorists/pirates, pests, hazardous materials, and explosives (e.g., dirty bombs, and nuclear weapons). Nevertheless, it is impractical to inspect every single container for potential security breaches considering the volume of container traffic and lengthened customs procedures. In particular, the inspection of the inside of a container is always challenging. To cope with such a challenge, many port authorities either have used or consider using the X-ray scanning equipment to inspect suspected containers. Despite its increased role in maritime security management, many logistics companies and government authorities still do not know whether investment in X-ray scanning equipment would pay off and/or how efficiently and effectively X-ray scanning equipment can be utilised for cargo inspection. Through a case study, this paper identifies a multitude of factors that facilitate or hinder the usage of X-ray scanning equipment in the maritime logistics industry.

Online publication date: Thu, 26-Dec-2013

The full text of this article is only available to individual subscribers or to users at subscribing institutions.

 
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.

Pay per view:
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.

Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Logistics Systems and Management (IJLSM):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:

Username:        Password:          Forgotten your password?

Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.

If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com