News

Biometric security introduced to improve the speed of container collection at the Port of Felixstowe has not shortened the queues, according to owner drivers.

The system, which uses handreaders to verify drivers' identification, is touted as something that will speed the process up because drivers will not have to bring all their identification paperwork with them every time. Driver Keith Revell says the system has not made any difference to the length of the queues at Felixstowe. "The  system verifies the driver's identity, but you still have to give them the paperwork for the container."

He adds that he had to go to the police station to get his identification verified for the system before he could go to the port. Another owner-driver says the system has just added another level of complication, rather than making anything easier.

Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies, which supplies the Road Haulier Identity System (RHIDES), says drivers have to register on the system before they come into the port.

"The first time they visit the port after registering they need all their paperwork, but after that they can use their verification card and the handreader rather than all the normal checks which have slowed them down," says marketing executive Claire Hayes. UK technical manager Andy Ratcliff adds haulage companies can register drivers remotely and adding a new driver, such as an agency worker,  would not take long.

He says Ingersoll is in discussions with other ports in the UK about introducing the biometric system. The Port of Felixstowe and owner Hutchison were not available for comment, but in a statement said it was necessary to enhance security by monitoring movements in and out without increasing cargo handling times and inconveniencing hauliers.