X-ray control of borders and of internal security

Abstract

Objective: Security control with X-rays means exposure to ionising radiation and creates the possibility of access to personal privacy. Internal security concerns the police and secret services. The used technologies and their possibilities are described. Material and method: Observations and additional information have been collected. The exposure dose has been measured. Results: Several technical set ups are in use: Transmission imaging (fluoroscopy), backscatter imaging, computed tomography and several combinations. The search of persons concerns the interior of the human body, its surface and the clothing together with the luggage. One looks for weapons, explosives and drugs. The exposure dose is low compared to the exposure dose by a flight or due to a holiday in a country with higher environmental radiation by external sources like Finland. Conclusion: In the future, the security control will increase. Using X-rays creates the possibility to inspect privacy.