Airport says “Thanks!” to HSS

The Port of Portland’s aviation security department sponsored a team building barbeque recently for the airport’s contract guard service, HSS Aviation Security. Employees from airside operations, construction, maintenance and the police department also attended to show their gratitude to HSS employees for a job well done. John Dean, senior manager of aviation security with the Port, said, “Collaborative efforts by HSS and other airport departments are crucial in keeping PDX a safe and secure place for travelers and airport employees. We want the HSS folks to know we appreciate their work.”

HSS provides vehicle inspections and other services related to directives mandated by the Transportation Security Administration. It conducts specific and random site inspections; monitors access of people and vehicles into restricted areas; and staffs construction access gates. The company also gives vehicle escorts on the airfield to vendors and other operators; escorts arriving international passengers from the federal inspection station to bag claim; and conducts scheduled and unscheduled site inspections. HSS has provided security services at PDX since February.

PDX prepares for H1N1

PDX will soon be installing hand sanitizing stations as an additional means to help prevent the spread of H1N1 and seasonal flu. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the H1N1 influenza is likely to spread from person to person in the same way as seasonal flu, that is, via coughing or sneezing by people infected with the virus. People may also become infected by touching something with influenza viruses on it and then touching their mouth, nose or eyes.

• Clean hands, especially after sneezing and coughing, with soap and water or alcohol-based hand cleaners. Travelers may find it helpful to pack a 3-ounce or less container of hand cleaner.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a sleeve or tissue, and throw the tissue in the trash after using it.
• Avoid touching nose and mouth.
• Avoid close contact with sick people.
• If exhibiting signs of the flu, stay home for at least 24 hours after fever falls below 100 degrees Fahrenheit without the use of aspirin or other fever-reducing medicine.