APTDIST tries out Electric Stand-up Transporter
To enhance operational efficiency and support frontline officers patrolling the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), Airport District (APTDIST) has recently put two Electric Stand-up Transporters (ESTs) on trial as aids in patrolling the vast Terminal of the HKIA.
The US-made ESTs were sourced by the Force Motor Transport Officer and after consultation with APTDIST management and the Airport Authority, the ESTs are now being tried out by APTDIST Patrol Sub-Unit officers. The EST is a three-wheel based machine with a 22-cm elevated platform, which gives the operator an elevated line of sight and makes him easily seen in crowds. Similar types of EST are currently being used by the law enforcement agencies in the USA, Canada, Qatar and South Korea. The advantage of the EST is that it uses clean energy with zero emissions and is very suitable for operating within the confines of the HKIA. It has good mobility and manoeuvrability to operate in tight areas, and in a safe and controlled manner.
APTDIST recognises that safety for both the EST operators and the passengers at the HKIA is of paramount importance. Therefore, the maximum speed of the ESTs on trial is set at 8 km/h, while the maximum speed of the machine is 25 km/h. Although the EST is very easy to operate, each operator has undergone a half-day training session conducted by APTDIST in-house trainers who had been trained and certified by the manufacturer. The session included operational and occupational safety topics, as well as practical lessons. Although the ESTs are not classified as motor vehicles, the operators are holders of HK driving licenses to ensure they have sufficient knowledge and competency in operating the machines. Operating instructions have also been issued, and it is emphasised that the EST is used for general patrol rather than responding to incidents or emergencies.
During the trial period, the ESTs are deployed to patrol the restricted area on both the departure and arrival levels of Terminal 1, and their effectiveness and suitability for police use will be reviewed by the end of April this year.
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