Compliance gaps in the use of baggage scanners by government institutions
A recent sample survey conducted by the ANVS found that public institutions such as courts and municipalities do not always fully comply with regulations on the use of baggage scanners. In 2024, we carried out inspections at 26 public institutions with baggage scanners. Almost all of the compliance gaps that were identified during these visits have since been addressed.
View contents of suitcase without opening
To look inside luggage without opening it, baggage scanners at public institutions use X-ray technology, which produces ionising radiation that poses certain health risks to staff and visitors.
Inspection results
During our inspections, we encountered baggage scanners that had not been reported to us, even though devices that produce ionising radiation can only be used with permission from the ANVS.
The inspections also revealed that not all public institutions had consulted a radiation protection expert prior to installing the scanners, which is a legal requirement.In addition, we looked at whether the devices could be used by unauthorised individuals, and we checked the institutions’ records. Here too, irregularities were identified at some institutions.
Safety and compliance
It is important that public institutions comply with these regulations, as they help to ensure the safe use of baggage scanners. While the amount of radiation these machines produce is very low, they are used in public areas. People who visit public institutions should be able to trust that baggage scanners are used in accordance with all relevant safety standards.
Regulations apply to all government institutions
Almost all of the government institutions we visited have since addressed the compliance gaps that were identified. One institution is still working on this and is expected to be fully compliant in the near future. We trust that the results of these inspections will prompt other government institutions to carefully review their own compliance with the applicable regulations on the use of ionising radiation. The results of our inspection will also be shared with the Council for the Judiciary and the Association of Dutch Municipalities.