Radiation from Airport Body Scanners

Author: American College of Radiology - American Roentgen Ray Society
Published: 2010/01/06 - Updated: 2010/06/24
Category Topic: Disability Travel Information - Academic Publications

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: American College of Radiology statement on airport full body scanners and radiation.

Introduction

These systems produce anatomically accurate images of the body and can detect objects and substances concealed by clothing.

Main Content

American College of Radiology statement on airport full-body scanners and radiation - Amid concerns regarding terrorists targeting airliners using weapons less detectable by traditional means, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is ramping up deployment of whole body scanners at security checkpoints in U.S. airports.

To date, TSA has deployed two types of scanning systems:

Millimeter wave technology uses low-level radio waves in the millimeter wave spectrum. Two rotating antennae cover the passenger from head to toe with low-level RF energy.

Backscatter technology uses extremely weak X-rays delivering less than 10 micro-Rem of radiation per scan the radiation equivalent one receives inside an aircraft flying for two minutes at 30,000 feet.

An airline passenger flying cross-country is exposed to more radiation from the flight than from screening by one of these devices. The National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurement (NCRP) has reported that a traveler would need to experience 2,500 backscatter scans per year to reach what they classify as a Negligible Individual Dose. The American College of Radiology (ACR) agrees with this conclusion.

The ACR is not aware of any evidence that either of the scanning technologies that the TSA is considering would present significant biological effects for passengers screened.

The ACR encourages those interested in learning more regarding radiation associated with imaging and radiation oncology procedures as well as radiation naturally occurring in the Earth's atmosphere to visit www.radiologyinfo.org

Explore Similar Topics

• : Study reveals disabled Americans use travel as therapy, with poorest individuals traveling most to combat loneliness despite facing significant barriers.

• : Explore historic dining spots, gourmet meals, and accessible travel options in this guide to memorable culinary destinations in the U.S. and France.

▶ Share Page

Citing and References

Founded in 2004, Disabled World (DW) is a leading resource on disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility, supporting the disability community. Learn more on our About Us page.

Cite This Page: American College of Radiology - American Roentgen Ray Society. (2010, January 6 - Last revised: 2010, June 24). Radiation from Airport Body Scanners. Disabled World (DW). Retrieved October 9, 2025 from www.disabled-world.com/travel/scan-radiation.php

Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/travel/scan-radiation.php">Radiation from Airport Body Scanners</a>: American College of Radiology statement on airport full body scanners and radiation.

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it's important to note that our content is for general informational purposes only. We always recommend consulting qualified healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.