Helveticor AG has successfully received approval from the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) to carry out the “Physical Handsearch” (PHS), a crucial security method for unsafe air freight export shipments in Switzerland.
Safe / unsafe air freight
Air freight is a critical component of global trade, and with its role in the fast and efficient transportation of goods across countries and continents comes a high responsibility for security. The term “safe” and “unsafe” freight refers to whether or not a shipment meets certain safety requirements. These requirements exist to ensure that no dangerous or illegal items are transported in air cargo, which could pose a significant threat to the safety of aircraft, crews and passengers.
In order to minimize these risks, various methods are used to control and secure air freight. The purpose of screening or securing cargo is to identify hidden dangers and prevent them from being transported by air. Potential risks include explosives, weapons, dangerous chemicals and other prohibited items.
Physical Handsearch
The “Physical Handsearch” (PHS) is one of the 7 approved security methods that may be used to secure airfreight export shipments.
For this purpose, an export air freight consignment with the security status “unsafe” is checked for prohibited items by means of a manual search. To do this, the entire contents must be removed from the packaging and thoroughly checked. If it is not possible to view and touch all the contents, the PHS securing method may not be used.
In addition to the contents of the shipment, the packaging must also be carefully examined for prohibited items. This backup process may only be carried out by specially trained and certified personnel. The company that carries out the securing of unsafe air freight using PHS bears full responsibility for securing the shipment in question. Failure to observe or comply with the regulations will result in immediate withdrawal of the FOCA license.
As Helveticor AG, we are delighted to have received approval from the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) for the PHS securing method.
Specialized professionals / strict compliance with regulations
In the meantime, 4 employees of Helveticor AG have successfully completed the external training including the audit in the company. These experts have the necessary know-how and experience to carry out the process specified by the FOCA with the utmost precision and professionalism.
The PHS is carried out in accordance with the strict guidelines of the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA). Our 4 certified employees ensure that all procedures and protocols meet the highest safety standards to ensure compliance.
Specialized area of application
Helveticor AG is certified for PHS implementation for securities shipments. This special authorization underlines our capabilities and stands for the highest security standards and professional services in the field of air freight security.
The “Physical Handsearch” may also only be carried out for customers/senders who have been approved by the FOCA.
We at Helveticor are proud to offer our customers a reliable solution that gives them the confidence that their air freight export shipments are in the safest hands.
