Courses NXCT: THE CARGO NATIONAL X-RAY COMPETENCY TEST

NXCT: THE CARGO NATIONAL X-RAY COMPETENCY TEST

NXCT
THE CARGO NATIONAL X-RAY COMPETENCY TEST

This Test has been introduced by the DfT to bring cargo screening into line with current baggage screeners test requirements and is in addition to being qualified to Level 1 plus module 8 X-ray. The importance of x-ray screening can not be stressed enough to ensure the safety of passengers and crew, therefore bringing in this common standard is a very welcome addition. There must be a minimum competence to indicate that we are all screening to a national standard.

Depending on your level of screening at the moment it may be wise to undergo an X-ray refresher course before attempting the test, this is something that we can provide.

The testing format must meet the regime set out by the DfT as described below.

The test covers all ten compulsory competencies listed below:

1. Understanding of safety issues
2. Ability to operate the x-ray machine
3. Understanding of peculiarities and limitations of the x-ray and how to overcome them
4. Ability to interpret the meaning of colours on the x-ray image
5. Ability to interpret the shapes and sizes of objects on the x-ray image
6. Image analysis using enhancement functions
7. Ability to recognise the appearance of everyday articles on the x-ray image
8. Understanding of the visual cues which may represent a prohibited article
9. Ability to recognise the appearance of prohibited articles on the x-ray image
10. Ability to use the correct procedures during security screening


The test is undertaken under exam conditions.

Only candidates who reach the required standard will be accepted as passing the competency test.

All test applicants will be provided with feedback on completion.


Target Population
Persons employed within the Cargo industry who undertake Module 8 of Cargo Level 1 are required to undertake the test at:

The end of their induction training; and at least every 13 months thereafter.
Any member of staff who has previously passed the competency test but who then has not been actively screening cargo by x-ray for three months will also be required to undertake the test again to demonstrate competency.

Appropriate records will need to be maintained.

Records should be kept of all tests undertaken and be available for inspection by DfT for a period of three years.

Results of competency tests should be retained for all staff by their employing companies as part of the individual's training record.

If a candidate fails the test, areas of failure need to bee suitably addressed, either through further on the job training or additional classroom training, before the candidate is allowed to re-sit the test. We can advise on the best way forward.

Candidates should not sit more than three tests in a three-month period.
It is a requirement that all cargo screeners who undertake x-ray screening duties must be in possession of a valid x-ray competency certificate.

Existing screeners will be allowed to continue operating but must have passed the test by June 2008).

TRANSEC has made it clear that there will be NO exceptions.

An accredited test manager may revoke a certificate if there is evidence that a candidate is not meeting the requirements laid down by the DfT.

Duration
The maximum duration of each part of the test will be one hour. Overall the test will not last for more than two hours, but delegates may complete the test in a shorter time.
We suggest allowing at least 1.5 hours

Marking Process
The CD-ROM will automatically mark individual tests. Results will then be clearly recorded.
On completion of the test marking, the person managing the test will provide immediate feedback including the marks achieved, to the candidate.
Where the candidate is successful, a certificate will be forwarded via the candidate's employer.
Certificates for individuals, who successfully complete the test, will be signed by the person administering the test and will remain the property of the DfT.
Candidates' test results are confidential and will only be provided to the individual undertaking the test, their employer and, on request, the DfT.


Test Centre Facilities
We have our own training centre which is approved by the Dft and many other bodies. The class room is set out for exam conditions therefore preventing trainees working together or colluding.
Candidates have access to toilet and refreshment facilities.
A waiting area and suitable facilities for confidential individual feedback is also available.

Equipment
The test is provided in the form of a CD-ROM, using a lap-top computer.

The DfT has the right to visit any accredited test centre or mobile test centre at any reasonable time to ensure that the rules are being complied with.

The candidate should have some basic computer skills, however if this is not the case, this will not bar the candidate and we can help them complete (type) their personal details. We can also help candidates on the procedure to follow to answer a question. At any time during the test the candidate can ask questions by raising their hand if they do not understand something, but we cannot give candidates any help regarding the correct answers to questions.

Prices:

At our Training Centre: £50.00
At your venue: £60.00 Minimum 4 Candidates
As part of initial training: £35.00
As part of refresher Training: £45.00

The above fees are for the Test only and do not take into account any course fees, details of which are available from our web site or please call our office for more details. All fees are subject to VAT.

Any in house testing can only be carried out if your facilities meet the strict DfT criteria for testing.