How does a baggage scanner work?
Over 70 million people visit the world’s largest airports every year. Security personnel use X-ray scanners to ensure the security of all passengers. A baggage scanner is an essential security tool used to screen passengers’ luggage for potential threats. The x-ray technology used in these scanners creates images of the contents inside luggage, allowing security personnel to detect any dangerous or prohibited items. It consists of a conveyor belt that moves the luggage through the machine while x-ray radiation penetrates the baggage and creates an image of the contents. Security agents also use an x ray hand baggage inspection system to analyse the luggage of people waiting for their boarding time. The x-ray technology used in these scanners can identify a wide range of items, including weapons, explosives, and drugs. Newer baggage scanners also use advanced software to detect anomalies in the image, making the screening process even more effective.
What can and cannot be detected by baggage scanners?
Luggage scanners are particularly effective in detecting items such as firearms, explosives, and chemicals. These items appear clearly in the x-ray image, making them easy to spot by security personnel. However, certain materials can block the x-rays and make it difficult to see what’s inside. For example, dense materials like lead, thick metal, and ceramics can obscure the view of what’s inside. Organic materials like food, clothing and paper may also create a dense image that can mask other items in the luggage. Modern smugglers have developed innovative methods to hide prohibited items, such as concealing drugs inside sealed food containers or hiding explosives inside electronic devices. To combat this, baggage scanners use advanced software with AI to detect any anomalies in the image that could indicate potential threats.
Is x-ray technology safe?
X-rays are a type of ionising radiation, meaning they have enough energy to remove electrons from atoms and molecules, potentially causing damage to living tissue. However, the radiation emitted by airport x-ray machines is considered very low and safe for humans. X-ray equipment used at airports complies with the standards and limits established in The European Community legislation and other countries. Additionally, airport personnel operating x-ray machines must undergo training and follow safety protocols to minimise exposure. However, repeated exposure to x-rays can increase the risk of cancer and other health problems. To avoid this exposure, people must leave all their belongings in a tray and pass through a metal detector, which has no adverse effects on the body. X-rays from the scanners never reach the passengers.… Read More..
