Edinburgh and Glasgow have become the latest UK airports to introduce full body scanners as part of their national roll-out. But how much do you know about how they work?
We set out to banish the myths surrounding these new machines which are now in use at Scotland’s busiest airports, as well as at Manchester and Heathrow, where they have been in use since 2010, by answering your top 10 questions regarding their use:
1) Why are body scanners being rolled out across the UK?
The roll-out is part of a series of steps being taken to heighten aviation security after the UK government carried out an in-depth review of procedures following an attempted terrorist attack on an airline to Detroit in 2009.
2) Who gets scanned?
Anyone who sets off the metal detector or raises another concern at airport security will need to be scanned while others may be chosen at random.
3) What do I have to do if I’m selected?
All you’re required to do is stand very still with your legs slightly apart and arms raised so the scanner can get a clear picture of your outline.
4) How long does it take?
Full body scanning only takes seconds and doesn’t usually cause any additional airport delays.
5) What will airport security staff be able to see?
Security officials will only be able to see a mannequin-type image – almost like a cartoon as pictured above. They cannot see bodily features or skin.
6) What are they looking for?
They are looking for contraband – which is typically anything not allowed on the flight and, in particular, any drugs, chemicals or weapons which could be concealed on or in your body.
7) What happens to the images afterwards?
The images are deleted immediately after the scan.
8) Can I refuse?
Having the scan is mandatory under the rules of the Department of Transport and anyone who refuses will not be allowed to board their flight.
9) What about radiation?
The scan is 100 per cent safe with less radiation emitted than the average mobile phone.
10) Where can I find out more?
Each of the airports operating body scanners has information leaflets tailored for passengers and which solve any unanswered questions regarding the procedure.
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