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Procedures for Body Scanning With a Handheld Metal Detector

A metal detector can be used to scan individuals at airports, government buildings or anywhere extra security is needed. They can be sensitive enough to detect metal items that are as small as a quarter and yet still a convenient way to manage security. The time it takes to scan an individual is minimal, so day-to-day business is not impeded.

  1. Procedure for Scanning an Individual

    • Have the individual face you. Ask him to extend his arms and to spread his legs slightly. Use a speed that is smooth and even. Start the scan at the individual's upper left shoulder. Hold the scanner with the flat surface facing toward the individual's profile and keep it about one inch away from his body. Scan down the length of that arm and head back up underneath that arm. Run the scanner down the full length of his body to his feet. Go up the inside of his leg starting from the ankle. Move across to the other leg and go down toward that ankle. Move the scanner to the outside of the ankle and proceed to move up the other side of his body. Move the scanner up the underneath side of that arm and then over the topside of the same arm. Scan the front part of the torso by starting at the shoulder area and moving downward. Move to the individual's back and scan from the lower back area up to the shoulder. Do not forget to scan the belt area.

    Set the Sensitivity Level

    • The sensitivity level of the detector can be adjusted to increase or decrease sensitivity to metals. Follow the instructions found in the owner's manual to change the sensitivity settings. If the owner's manual cannot be located, look for a small hole in the handle of the scanner. If found, use the tip of a small screwdriver and insert it into the hole until it touches the control inside the handle. Adjust the screwdriver until the tip fits into the slot. Turn the screwdriver in a clockwise motion to increase the sensitivity. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease the level. Scan a small metal item while turning the screwdriver until you reach the desired level.

    Tips

    • If the floor has a significant amount of metal in its makeup, it may cause interference with the scan when at the ankle level. If this happens, desensitize the scanner while going over the ankles. If the metal detector gets wet, dry it immediately. Certain liquids can destroy the circuitry. As there are circuit boards in the metal detector, use it gently and do not drop it. Use the scanner in environments that run at normal temperatures. Do not use harsh cleaning chemicals or solvents on the metal detector.

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