Conduct of inspections
Article 9
1. Commission inspectors shall conduct inspections in an efficient and effective manner, with due regard for their own and others’ safety and security. Commission inspectors whose behaviour during an inspection fails to meet these standards may be excluded from further Commission inspections. 2. A standard methodology shall be used to monitor compliance with the civil aviation security requirements laid down in Regulation (EC) No 300/2008. The conduct of inspections shall be based on a systematic gathering of information using one or more of the following techniques: (a) observations; (b) verifications; (c) interviews; (d) examination of documents; and (e) tests. 3. Commission inspectors shall be accompanied by a representative of the appropriate authority when carrying out inspection activities. The conduct of the escort shall not prejudice the efficiency or effectiveness of the inspection activities. 4. Commission inspectors shall carry an identity card authorising inspections on behalf of the Commission and an airport identification card allowing access to all areas required for the inspection. The format of the airport identification card shall not prejudice the efficiency or effectiveness of the inspection activities. 5. Tests shall only be performed after advance notification to and in close coordination with the appropriate authority. 6. Member States shall ensure that Commission inspectors are authorised to carry items to be used for testing purposes, including those that are, or have the appearance of, prohibited articles, in any area to which access is required during the course of an inspection and when in transit to or from an inspection, in accordance with any agreed protocols. 7. The appropriate authority shall be informed as soon as practicable of any serious deficiencies identified during a Commission inspection. In addition and without prejudice to Article 10, Commission inspectors shall, wherever practicable, provide an informal oral summary of their findings on the spot at the conclusion of the inspection.