I just got back from a business trip to Singapore – a full 14 time zones ahead of Dallas – and it was a fascinating trip (though I’m glad to be home).
But what everyone wants to know is, did I have to “endure” one of those new body scan imaging machines? I did indeed – and later, I underwent a full body pat-down.
Both took about the same amount of time – although, after removing laptop, belt, shoes, whatever – it’s hard to tell what takes longer:-o .
Keep reading – I will describe the two very different security procedures, as best I can – and I’ll also let you know which one I preferred…
BODY SCAN: My first personal, one-on-one experience with the body scan machine was in San Francisco (SFO’s International Terminal) before heading to Tokyo. Reminded me somewhat of the old “puffer machines” that detected traces of explosives: you step into it, arms up – wait a few seconds for a buzzer – and step out. It was longer than passing through a metal detector of course, but I didn’t notice folks backed up behind me. Nor did I see or hear anyone complaining about it, though I did spy a few bewildered faces as if people were thinking, “What the heck is that contraption?”
My opinion: despite all the buzz and wariness over the technology and things like “where will my photo end up?” I have to say, it was really no big deal at all.
PAT-DOWN: This took place in Tokyo (TYO) as I was heading back to the U.S. No wand was used, just a full and thorough pat-down. It was definitely more up-close and personal than the body scan machine I know some of my readers are not crazy about the body scan, but I think some would find the full body pat-down a little disconcerting.
My opinion: relatively quick and painless.
So what did I prefer? Easy – the body scan imaging machine. Although at about $180,000 per machine, most of us will only get a chance to experience this procedure at the largest airports. And remember, in the U.S., you do have the option of body scan or pat-down.
But Rick, a baggie of PETN up your rectum would have been undetectable by the scanner. The patdown didn’t involve an anal probe. So the security theater added exactly what to your safety?
And what about long-term effect of these machines – for people who must pass through them every day (some multiple times per day)? For a person who might take one flight per year this might not amount to much, but for people who fly five days a week this could be terrible.
C.,
I don’t have all the answers. I do know security consists of more than machines, and agents do look for anomalies among passengers. I also know that no security system will ever be fool-proof, but — we’ve got to keep trying.
Regards,
Rick
In order for myself and family to have a nice holiday in the sun I am expected to let my wife expose herself to a complete stranger.
Bend over Britain all is lost.
Derek,
Sorry, but I had to edit your letter for length; also, it appears you meant to respond to the post about Heathrow using body scan images, which can be found here: http://rickseaney.com/2010/02/01/body-image-scanners-now-live-at-heathrow-are-you-ready/
Rick
I remember way back in 2005 they had a few body scanner machine in CN Tower Toronto. It was petty much like what Rick is describing, some chemical spraying/puffing all around you, few seconds later, you walk out. I kind of liked that system, because they even allowed us to carry our bags (like ladies handbags, back packs etc) but it just have to be open. It was quick & easy.
Shan,
I kind of liked those too, and I will really like a machine that lets you keep your shoes on.
Rick
you are not keeping your clothes on – they see everything you own and the radiation is very bad, reading more about this . . . very bad
Loretta,
You have gotten some misinformation. First of all, you DO keep your clothes on. Second of all, please read more here: http://www.tsa.gov/approach/tech/imaging_technology.shtm
Regards,
Rick
You are being disingenuous to Loretta. The government sees all that you have, which is the same as you being naked. Maybe you’re a fan of women or children being ogled after by government employees.
Dick,
I suggest you opt for the pat-down.
Rick
Hi Rick, I have no problem with any kind of security, I work at an airport. Passengers just need to be made aware of time issues and allow for it. Anyway all this security keeps me safe as well. I do wonder about health issues regarding any security screening machine, though. Depending on my assigned jobs, I can walk through metal detectors over 20 times and often more a day. Any comment?
Vivienne,
Not being a scientist, I really don’t know the answer; I can point you to the “imaging technology” section of the TSA’s site, which explains the millimeter wavy technology and provides some safety comparison information: http://www.tsa.gov/approach/tech/imaging_technology.shtm
Hope this is helpful.
Rick
Thanks – i’ll check it out.
Where does it all end? There will always be a justification for more security measures and further erosion of the rights of privacy we once regarded so highly. For those who fear big government, these ever-increasing security measures are potentially the biggest threat we face as free citizens. How confident are you that all of this data collection is properly secured and safe-guarded?
It is easy to say that we need this for greater security. But at what point do we simply stay home out of fear of whatever may happen if we leave our homes? In fact, the most dangerous thing that most of us ever do is get in our cars and drive down the highway.
Will,
All I can say is, I love to travel and I will continue to fly.
Thanks for writing.
Rick
I recently had my first experience with the scanner as well, and I’m not sure they can see as much as we might think
.
When I stepped out of the machine a TSA agent asked me to step to the side and was talking to that “guy in the back room” via an earpiece/microphone. I heard her say “No” and “I’m sure” to him a couple times, then she said: “I am looking right at him, he’s got an open collar and he is NOT wearing a necklace”. Then she said “well…OK” and kind of sighed before asking me: “Sir, are you wearing a necklace?” — I laughed and said “No”. And she said “well he seems to think you are”. Then she rolled her eyes and let me go. So, I’m not sure the images are as “revealing” as people fear (or, for security reasons, might hope).
Bryan,
Good to hear from another with first-hand experience.
And thanks for writing.
Rick
Rick Seaney makes money when people fly. The more people fly the more money he makes.
Do you really think he will tell you all the dangers of body scanners? If people stop flying because they are forced to go through a scanner Rick Seaney will lose money. I don’t think Rick Seaney wants to lose money so I think Rick Seaney will say anything to get more people to fly.
Saying that going through a body scanner is voluntary is BS! You have two (and ONLY two choices):
1. Surrender your freedom, self determination, dignity, and the rest of your rights and go through the body scanner.
2. Decline to go through the scanner. The TSA will grope you, slowly peer at every single item in your luggage (you will be amazed at how fascinating the TSA will find your dental floss!), you will be “asked” to operate your notebook computer, cell phone, iPod, electric toothbrush, alarm clock, etc, etc. The TSA will send you through a metal detector, which will always detect the fillings in your teeth, then they will wave a metal-detector over you until their arm gets tired, then they will rub a “sampling” device over all your stuff. Two hours later, and 30 minutes after your flight has departed, you will be allowed to put your glasses,belt, shoes, earrings, rings, wallet, coat, etc., etc., back on, pick your belongings up off the floor, repack your suitcase, and think about how safe you are. Now you can call your airline and find out that you can’t change your flight after it has departed.
THIS is the choice you will be given!
Enjoy air travel in the “Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave!”
John G.
Rick Seaney is rolling his eyes…
Regards,
Rick