Advanced Imaging Technology

On June 18, 2012, the Pentagon Force Protection Agency (PFPA) will begin a 90-day pilot program using Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT), also known as whole body imaging, to randomly screen visitors before they enter the Pentagon. Our hope is AIT will provide an additional screening tool to help address a variety of threats such as metallic and non-metallic weapons, explosives and dangerous liquids. AIT addresses many recent and emerging threats, particularly low metal content weapons and explosive devices.

Protecting people's privacy and civil liberties is a priority in integrating the AIT with PFPA's current security procedures. The version of AIT that PFPA will use does not present an image of the person being screened. The only image visible to anyone will be a generic body outline located on the side of the screening system. An algorithm will automatically detect anomalies and any areas of concern are automatically highlighted on the image. Once screening is complete, the image will be cleared. No images will be saved. At no point will anyone be viewing an actual scanned image of the person undergoing screening; therefore, an individual's privacy is protected. Anyone may opt-out of AIT screening, but he or she will be subject to other screen procedures before being allowed into the Pentagon. Persons under 18 will not be screened via AIT but will be subject to other screening measures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the Pentagon Force Protection Agency (PFPA) choose this screening method?

PFPA's number one priority is to better protect Pentagon employees using the best available technologies. Advanced Imaging Technology, also known as whole body imaging, is a security screening system that allows for the identification of metallic and non-metallic objects concealed on the body. It does not specifically identify a threat, but instead detects anomalies that may range from innocuous items, to contraband, to weapons, or to explosive devices. PFPA has employed strict procedures to ensure the privacy of individuals is maintained. PFPA has obtained a Rapiscan Secure 1000 AIT system to conduct whole body screening. The new screening system is equipped with automatic threat recognition software and does not generate a visible scanned image of the person being screened. If an anomaly is detected the system will alert the screening officer by highlighting the threat area on a generic body outline located on the side of the screening system.

How does the imaging technology screening process work?

After processing through the metal detectors, individuals will be selected randomly for additional AIT screening. They will be asked to remove all items from their pockets. They will be asked to stand in a position and remain still for a few seconds while the technology screens for anomalies on the body. If anomalies are detected the scanner operator may need to pat-down the specific area of concern. Once all anomalies are addressed the individual will be free to depart the screening area and collect their belongings. The entire process takes a matter of seconds, compared to a 2-4 minute pat-down.

Is this screening method safe?

The Rapiscan Secure 1000 AIT System is safe for all persons regardless of age, gender or medical condition, including:

- Pregnant women
- Medical radiation therapy patients
- Pacemaker wearers
- Individuals with medical implants

Each scan emits less than 0.05 ÂµSieverts of radiation, and a screening session shall not exceed 3 scans (0.15 ÂµSv). The amount of radiation emitted in a scan is less than the exposure a person receives during five minutes on a typical commercial aviation flight.

The Rapiscan Secure 1000 complies with the American National Standards Institute/Health Physics Society standard N43.17-2009 entitled, Radiation Safety for Personnel Security Screening Systems Using X-Rays. This equipment also conforms to exposure recommendations set forth by the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements

What is PFPA doing to protect my privacy?

PFPA has employed strict procedures to ensure the privacy of individuals is maintained. PFPA uses automatic threat recognition technology that does not display a scanned image. If an anomaly is detected the system will alert the screening officer by highlighting the threat area on a generic body outline located on the side of the screening system. This allows the screening officer to effectively screen an individual for a variety of threats, while protecting the individual's privacy. Once screening is complete, the image will be cleared. No images will be saved. At no point will anyone be viewing an actual scanned image of the person undergoing screening; therefore, an individual's privacy is protected.

I have a medical concern and I'm not sure if it will impact the screening process (e.g., pregnancy, pacemaker, metal plate in my head/metal pins in my leg, implant(s), colostomy or urostomy bag, etc.)

Advanced Imaging Technology is safe for all persons (See FAQ #3 above). Individuals selected for AIT screening will have the opportunity to discuss privately with a screener any specific medical concerns prior to the screening process.

Can I opt out of AIT screening?

Individuals may opt out of AIT screening for any reason. Those who opt out will receive alternative screening that includes a physical pat-down. Individuals who opt out of AIT screening and refuse the alternative pat-down screening will be denied entry into the Pentagon.

What if I have more questions or concerns about Advanced Imaging Technology?

Please contact the PFPA Corporate Communications Office at cco@pfpa.mil.