Share It On

1. Technology based on x-rays:

Although X-ray based scanners provide better quality images their radiations might be harmful specially for frequent flyers’ and crew members’ health. Several scientific studies have been made on the use of X-ray based scanners but were limited to estimate the maximum number of scans acceptable to remain within the safe limits. However pilots are exposed to radiation not only at security checks but also when they are airborne and fly at a high altitude.

According to the Council Directive 96/29/Euratom Art. 42 there is no significant health risk for air crew below 1milisievert (mSv) per year. Records made by companies to assess pilots’ exposure to ionizing radiation show an annual exposure between 3 and 6 mSv for long haul flights. These records only take into account the radiations captured during the flights operated in 1 year. The cumulative doses of radiation (cosmic radiation, security screenings and natural radiation) received during a lifetime by crews are not considered as they are well above the limits advised by scientists.

As regards x-ray technology, a distinction must be made between 3 different techniques that have different applications: the backscatter, the low dose and the transmission scanner.