How to effectively scan people

General Rules for Scanning

• Never touch a person while scanning. Keeping a safe distance ensures proper detection and avoids any misunderstandings.
• Never kneel down while scanning. Instead, have the person lift one foot at a time and balance themselves by holding onto something if needed.
• Scan the entire body to ensure nothing is hidden. Weapons and contraband can be concealed anywhere.
• Always follow post instructions and security policies to ensure proper screening procedures.

Step-by-Step Scanning Process

1. Front Body Scan

• Have the person stand facing you with their arms extended to the side.
• Start scanning from one shoulder down to the foot on the same side.
• Move to the other shoulder and scan down the opposite leg.
• Scan both arms by moving the wand under the arm and then back over the top.
• If the person is wearing a hat, ask them to remove it and scan it separately. Hats can be used to hide weapons like razor blades.

2. Back Body Scan

• Have the person turn around while keeping their arms extended.
• Start scanning from one hand, up to the shoulder, and down the leg on the same side.
• Repeat on the other side of the body.
• Never scan between the legs or too close to the person’s face.

3. When the Alarm Sounds

• Ask the person not to remove the object immediately. Instead, have them place items like cell phones, keys, or pens in a plastic container for inspection.
• Rescan the area where the alarm went off.
• If the alarm still sounds, ask the person to pull their clothing away from the body to see if anything is concealed.
• If a potential weapon is detected, do not allow them to remove it themselves. Call a supervisor or another security officer for assistance.
• If the object is harmless, take it from the person and inspect it to ensure there are no hidden compartments.

Hidden Weapons in Clothing

Criminals often try to hide weapons or illegal items in their clothing. Be on the lookout for:

• Guns disguised as cell phones.
• Weapons hidden in belt buckles.
• Drugs or small weapons sewn into clothing.

If you detect an object and cannot verify what it is, call for backup or a supervisor before proceeding.

Handicap and Special Screening Procedures

Wheelchairs, Walkers, and Braces

• People using wheelchairs or mobility aids often have a lot of metal in their equipment.
• Since magnetometers and wands may not work well in these cases, a physical search is usually required.
• Be professional and respectful of the person’s condition.
• Male security officers should screen male individuals, and female security officers should screen female individuals whenever possible.

Service Animals

• Visually inspect the animal’s collar and harness for any hidden objects.
• If needed, scan the area under the harness with a wand.

Baby Strollers

• Ask the adult to remove the child and carry them through the metal detector.
• Inspect the stroller visually and, if needed, use the wand to scan it.
• If the magnetometer detects metal while the adult is carrying the child, scan both the adult and the child with a handheld wand.
• If a person refuses to remove the child for proper screening, notify a supervisor immediately.

If Someone Refuses to be Screened

• Do not allow them to enter the secure area.
• Notify a supervisor or law enforcement if necessary.
• Stay professional and explain that screening is mandatory for everyone.

Using a handheld metal detector wand correctly is a critical part of access control. By following proper scanning techniques, staying alert for hidden weapons, and enforcing screening procedures consistently, security officers help keep everyone safe. Always stay professional, follow post instructions, and call for backup when needed.