Folks, I almost spilled my coffee reading this one. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has decided that airport security employees checking boarding passes and IDs will no longer be allowed to sit down while working. I mean, who needs a chair when you’re scanning IDs all day, right? The TSA confirmed this on Tuesday, and I’m still trying to wrap my head around it. All chairs are being removed from the travel document checker podiums at the entrance to checkpoints nationwide, because, you know, standing is the new sitting.
The American Federation of Government Employees TSA Council 100 is not happy about this decision, and I don’t blame them. They called it a “disregard for workers’ rights and safety.” I can see why – standing all day can be tough on the feet and back. The union said that these chairs serve as basic ergonomic and safety support for officers who stand and walk on hard surfaces all day. But hey, who needs ergonomic support when you’re trying to create a better experience for passengers?
The TSA defended the move, saying that document checkers are the first to interact with the traveling public, and requiring them to stand will create a better experience for passengers. Because, you know, a smiling face and a standing TSA officer are all you need to make your airport experience complete. The agency said in a statement, “This welcome change reinforces both our security posture and our commitment to hospitality by having these officers on their feet and alert.” I’m not sure what’s more amusing – the fact that they think standing will make a difference or the fact that they’re using the word “hospitality” to describe airport security.
The move comes nearly two months after TSA Administrator David Cummins was confirmed to lead the agency. I’m not sure what his vision is for the TSA, but I hope it includes comfortable shoes for his employees. The removal of chairs has already begun in most commercial airports, and there was no formal notification to the union or its local chapters. I guess that’s just the way the TSA rolls – no chairs, no notice.
As the TSA approaches its 25th anniversary, Cummins has held meetings to “rapidly advance key strategic initiatives” as part of a program dubbed Horizon 25. I’m not sure what this program entails, but I hope it includes a new chair budget. Cummins said, “TSA does not have to choose between a secure checkpoint, an efficient checkpoint, and an elevated passenger experience.” I think he’s right – they can choose to have all three, and maybe even throw in some comfortable seating for their employees.
In conclusion, the TSA’s decision to remove chairs from airport security checkpoints is an interesting one. I’m not sure what the logic is behind it, but I’m sure it’ll make for an exciting experience for both passengers and TSA officers. And who knows, maybe the next thing they’ll remove is the coffee machines – after all, caffeine is overrated, right? As I finish my coffee, I’m left wondering what’s next for the TSA – will they start requiring employees to hop on one foot while checking IDs? Only time will tell.
Armchair patriot. Believes in the free market, cold beer, and that there’s always a guy named George behind every CNN segment.
Former remote-throwing champion turned #1 couch commentator on liberal panic in the media. Born in Texas (or so his mug says), he earned a degree in Fake Newsology & Beer Philosophy from YouTube University.
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