Transit/Public Transportation Security Checklist

This transit and public transportation security checklist ensures compliance with TSA Surface Division security directives, 49 CFR Part 1570 surface transportation security regulations, FTA (Federal Transit Administration) Transit Security Program requirements, and APTA (American Public Transportation Association) security standards. Designed for transit security officers and transit police to protect passengers, staff, and infrastructure each shift.

  • Industry: Security Services
  • Frequency: Per Shift
  • Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes
  • Role: Transit Security Officer / Transit Police
  • Total Items: 30
  • Compliance: TSA Surface Transportation Security Directives, 49 CFR Part 1570 Surface Transportation Security, FTA Transit Security Program Requirements, APTA Security Standards and Recommended Practices, DHS Baseline Capabilities for Transit Agencies

Station/Terminal Security

Facility security and patron safety checks.

  • Station CCTV cameras operational?
  • Fare-paid zones and restricted areas access-controlled?
  • Emergency call stations/intercoms operational?
  • Station lighting adequate throughout?
  • Any unattended items or suspicious packages observed?

Patron Safety and Service

Passenger safety and quality of life enforcement.

  • Platform edge safety enforced?
  • Prohibited conduct (fare evasion, panhandling, smoking) addressed?
  • Any medical incidents responded to and documented?
  • Vulnerable or distressed passengers assisted?
  • Any crimes against persons or property reported?

Suspicious Activity Reporting

ISE/SAR (Suspicious Activity Reporting) compliance.

  • Officers current on SAR indicators per DHS See Something Say Something?
  • Any suspicious persons or behavior observed?
  • Any apparent surveillance of facility observed?
  • SAR filed and submitted to fusion center (if triggered)?
  • Suspicious Activity Notes

Vehicle and Infrastructure Security

Transit vehicle and critical infrastructure protection.

  • Out-of-service vehicles inspected and secured?
  • Maintenance yards and rail yards secured?
  • Critical infrastructure access points secured?
  • No unauthorized persons on trackway/restricted right-of-way?
  • No evidence of vehicle tampering observed?

Emergency Response Readiness

Emergency preparedness and coordination.

  • Radio communication with operations center functional?
  • Emergency response procedures knowledge current?
  • Station evacuation routes clear and posted?
  • Fire extinguishers in place and tagged current?
  • Police/fire agency coordination contacts current?

Shift Documentation

Shift log and incident reporting.

  • All activities documented in shift log?
  • All incidents reported per agency policy?
  • Shift commander notified of significant events?
  • Incoming shift fully briefed?
  • Shift Summary Notes

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Why Use This Transit/Public Transportation Security Checklist?

This transit/public transportation security checklist helps security services teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for transit security officer / transit police professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per shift.

Ensures compliance with TSA Surface Transportation Security Directives, 49 CFR Part 1570 Surface Transportation Security, FTA Transit Security Program Requirements, APTA Security Standards and Recommended Practices, DHS Baseline Capabilities for Transit Agencies. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Transit/Public Transportation Security Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Station/Terminal Security, Patron Safety and Service, Suspicious Activity Reporting, Vehicle and Infrastructure Security, Emergency Response Readiness, Shift Documentation. It is designed for security services operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per shift. Each completion takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

Who should use this Transit/Public Transportation Security Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Transit Security Officer / Transit Police professionals in the security services industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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