The Homeland Security department says maritime workers at the Port of Anchorage have started signing up for an ID program geared toward tightening up security there.

Officials say the program is supposed to ensure that anyone with unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities and vessels has received a thorough background check.

Nationwide, more than 1.2 million workers are slated to apply to the program.

The Port of Anchorage is the 104th port to begin enrollment.

(Associated Press)