The Transportation Security Administration's programs to improve the credentialing process for transporters of hazardous materials got a boost last week when the Homeland Security Department signed Computer Sciences Corp. to a contract worth up to $16 million over four years. CSC will provide personnel to help the TSA Office of Transportation Vetting and Credentialing run applications through its Screening Gateway and Document Management systems.

The Screening Gateway system takes data from applicants seeking credentials to transport hazardous materials, gain entry into the Registered Traveler program, or win approval for a Transportation Workers Identification Credential. It also checks that information against databases containing criminal and terrorist watch-list data. The companion Document Management System helps notify individuals of the results of their security-threat assessment and process any appeals or waivers. CSC and subcontractor Trinity Technology Group Inc. will provide about 40 staffers to offer support services.