X-ray Scanning For Theft Detection

[Michael Williamson <m.williamson@mailbox.uq.edu.au>]

Before this thread gets much further we should have the basics clear.

The wording of ICRP60  leads me to conclude that they are firmly against
anti-theft X-ray devices (as opposed to the possibility of anti-terrorist
security X-ray detection).  Where I'm getting this from is clause 112(a) of
ICRP 60:

*No practice involving exposures to radiation should be adopted unless it
produces sufficient benefit to the exposed individuals or to society to
offset the radiation detriment it causes*

The benefit referred to is a tangible benefit to an individual or society
as whole, not the benefit of increased profits to a private firm, and
definitely not the "benefit" to an employee of not being fired for theft.

If the proposal was for an anti-terrorism detection device  where some
minor radiation exposure was involved, there might be a case - but it's
hard to see how one could be made out for the anti-theft system (given the
ICRP's injunction).

Michael Williamson
(m.williamson@mailbox.uq.edu.au )

Radiation Protection Adviser

Occupational Health & Safety Unit
University of Queensland
Brisbane 4072
Australia

ph +61 7 3365 4504
fax +61 7 3365 1577

The opinions expressed in this communication are those of the writer:
unless explicitly stated they should not be taken as representing the
official policies or views of the University of Queensland.