11 November 2010
Attention all Long Haul Cabin Crew
WHOLE BODY SCANNING
In coming weeks it is likely that the issues associated with whole body scanning at airport security checkpoints will become a news item. The Federal Government intends to introduce this security screening procedure as early as next year.
During the past 12 months, your Union has been monitoring the deployment of whole body ionising scanners at airports and the operation of these units in other countries. Melbourne OH&S Representative & FAAA Delegate, Brian Wilson has been coordinating this work.
The FAAA has also been in contact with prominent specialists including scientists who developed the whole body scanning system at the direction of then US President George Bush following 'September 11' – the FAAA is also working with the Pilots Union (AIPA), Qantas and OH&S specialists at Trades Hall.
Currently the Australian Government has not undertaken any formal consultation with Aircrew despite the presence of 'trial units' in Sydney and Melbourne in 2009.There are also numerous discrepancies between State based OH&S legislation. (For example there is no agreed national standard in connection ionising radiation and in Victoria; there are no limits whatsoever to the amount of radiation an employee can be exposed to).
Amongst our concerns are the exposure risks to pregnant crew or crew who may be recovering from cancer or similar conditions. These concerns are particularly important given that frequent scans may be imposed, Aircrew have no means by which to monitor the amount of radiation they are exposed to and there is no provision for refusal.
The FAAA is also concerned that as yet no procedures have been developed for the operation of these radiation devices and that they may be operated by casual security contractors without appropriate training or qualifications.
Together with the Base OH&S Committees, the FAAA will continue to monitor the Australian Government's progress and will seek proper consultation, accurate information and importantly, assurances of your safety.
We will issue updates as appropriate, however Crew (both Members and non-members) are encouraged to forward any questions or comments to
[email protected]
Written by Brian Wilson - FAAA QCCA Delegate and Regulatory Affairs
and authorised by Michael Mijatov – Secretary International Division