SFS updates gate entry procedures

HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – Defenders from the 66th Security Forces Squadron have adjusted the installation entry and visitor access procedures as a result of the COVID-19 response and the installation’s current Health Protection condition.  

The changes help ensure both defenders and vehicle passengers are able to keep a safe physical distance while coming through the gate.

“These measures are part of our efforts to prevent the spread of the virus to all people coming on base, as well as our defenders at the gates,” said Isaac Rosales, 66 SFS police officer.

Entry controllers will continue to operate with a hands-off approach while checking credentials, said Rosales. As personnel arrive at the gate, they should present their credentials, and any other passengers’ credentials, with the bar code facing the defender to be scanned.

Once the barcode is registered, personnel should flip their credentials over to be visually inspected by the defender. To ensure a positive identification, personnel will be asked to remove face coverings or masks.

“If someone isn’t comfortable removing their mask, they may roll up their window before removing it to maintain a healthy barrier between themselves and the defender,” said Rosales. 

Rosales said all personnel should be prepared to state their purpose or business on the base to determine if they meet the criteria for installation access.

Currently, base access is limited to:

• Mission essential personnel
• Personnel for required or imperative services
• Personnel seeking medical care at the 66th Medical Squadron
• Base housing residents
• AAFES and commissary service beneficiaries

Sponsors requesting a short-term guest visitor’s pass will be required to submit a signed memorandum from the sponsor’s leadership at the Visitor Control Center.

Contact the Visitor Control Center at 781-225-6642 for more information.