X-rays or Strip Search? -Reply

[Michael S Ford <MFORD@pantex.com>]

I'm not sure how we got onto the x-ray search "brick-bats," but when
I heard this story break, it concerned the use of these x-ray search
devices on people suspected of being smugglers in the customs
areas of airports in the US.

As the story relayed (NPR?), the search typically followed an
interview by the customs agent whereby the individual was given
the choice of the x-ray scan or a strip search.  It was interesting to
hear that most of the folks preferred the strip search.  Wonder why?

As Don pointed out in his response, it appears that this choice is
also provided in other areas where these units are in use.

I have no information on the design of these units, but I would
certainly agree that the prudent course of action would be to ensure
that the design of the instrument does not allow user/field
modifications and that the manufacturer's design specs have been
validated.  After you've done that and IF the doses are proven to be
in the micro-rem range, wouldn't you move on? Maybe issue a
limited-term license to the user based on the stability of the
instrument design?

It seems that once you've demonstrated a micro-rem dose potential,
you move on to other things... like ventilating manicure shops or
using lasers for tattoo or cellulite removal!  (a whole other off-topic
thread)   'Seems like we're missing some big picture public-health
items when we get wrapped around a micro-rem axle.

In my humble and uninformed opinion...
v/r
Michael
*************************
Michael S. Ford, CHP
Texas Radiation Advisory Board
Address:
Radiation Safety Department
Battelle Pantex
Amarillo, TX
806.477.5727 phone
806.477.4198 fax
mford@pantex.com
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