What are the Essential Tools for Security Guard Searches?

Last Updated on September 26, 2024 by Ranga

Various tools and technologies are used to search baggage, screen individuals, and inspect vehicles to detect prohibited items. These tools make the security guard search more effective and faster.

Companies provide security staff with search tools and technology based on the threat level, risk, and type of organization. However, the commonly used tools for security guard search are as follows:

Security guard search tools

1. Hand-held metal detector;

Handheld metal detectors are the most widely used security tools in the private security industry. They make a sound when they pass over a metal object on a person’s body. Using them helps security staff find the object and decide whether it poses a risk or not.

Handheld metal detectors use batteries, so security staff should regularly check their battery levels and connections.

• The battery connection points are free from the rust 
• Battery has recharged
• Any technical defects should be reported and sent for maintenance

2. Walk-through metal detector;

A walk-through metal detector is another commonly used security device, ideal for screening a person’s whole body. Security guards should be familiar with how to operate it effectively.

3. Baggage X-Ray;

It is one of the effective methods to screen personal baggage to detect the dangerous and prohibited items commonly used in;

• Ports, Airports, and Border control points
• Government buildings
• Tourist attractions
• Military camps

How to operate the X-ray machine?

Operating an X-ray machine may seem straightforward, but there are several important factors to consider before, during, and after its use. As a security guard, if you’re responsible for operating the X-ray machine, it’s crucial to follow these guidelines carefully.

Machine inspection:

• Confirm power voltage 
• emergency stop buttons are in the „Reset‟ position
• Do not start the machine if any emergency stop buttons are not working
• Check entry and exit points of the tunnel are not blocked 
• Check the conveyor belt for cracks,
• Report any issues to the supervisor

 Powering on the machine: 

• Insert the key into the switch-on
• Press the power button until the power comes

 Operating the machine

• Wait for the machine to pre-heat: Depending on the machine and how long since last use it may take 1-20 minutes to pre-heat
• Log in to the system using the user profiles as required
• the machine can now be controlled using the keyboard
• Progress the conveyor belt to confirm the correct operation

Inspecting Objects

• Place the object or bag on the conveyor Belt at the tunnel entry
• Click on the move button to run the Conveyor belt forward and backward as Necessary
• When the objects are scanned, the X-ray lights will light up, and the scanned image Will display.
• The image can now be inspected for prohibited or dangerous items (more details on interpreting images are given in the next section)
• When the object arrives at the tunnel exit, press the conveyor stop button and remove the object.
• The X-ray operator can now proceed to the next item to inspect

 Powering off the machine

• Check the conveyor belt for any objects remaining, if any are found, remove them and inform the shift supervisor
• Press the stop button and rotate the keys witch counterclockwise to the „OFF‟ position
• Remove the key from the key switch and secure it under the site key storage policy

Stander color of the X-ray image display.

• Blue – Hard materials including metal, hard plastic, wires, batteries, etc.
• Orange – Organic materials including rubber, leather, food, explosives, liquids, gels, and powders
• Green – Light plastic, soft metal alloy

Note: Light, thin, dirty, or damaged objects should be placed in a tray for inspection. Electronic items should be screened separately from the person, as their X-ray images can be complex. Screening electronics separately helps to see their internal components.

Detection of suspicious items

If the suspicious items are found during the X-ray you should report to the supervisor and ask the other security guard to conduct the physical search.

4. Particle detectors;

A particle detector is a device used to detect, track, and/or identify Explosives, narcotics, and chemicals.

5. Person scanning X-Ray

This screening machine detects objects on a person’s body during security checks. It is a general X-ray machine used to scan people.

6. Person thermal scanning

Thermal cameras are used to detect a virus or an infection by measuring a person’s body temperature.

Conclusion: While there are many tools available for security guard search, their effectiveness depends on your ability to operate the equipment. Always stay mindful of company policies during the search process.

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