Airport X-Rays Can Harm Film
This submitted by Ray Ovelman from Bronica Images Winter/Spring 1990.
The concern for degradation of film quality from airport x-ray inspection equipment is real. A study under taken by Technical Photography showed that half of 300 rolls of film showed some damage. 17% had significant visual effects and a few rolls were completely ruined.
Despite proof of tests done on airport x-ray security systems, many airport guards balk at hand inspections, stating that the x-rays are harmless to film.
Although (in the U.S.) the FAA mandates that everyone is entitled to a hand inspection if requested, don’t count on it. Many airport guards are poorly or wrongly informed, and may refuse to conduct hand inspections.
Make hand inspection as easy as possible, by packing all your film in a separate clear plastic bag, for example. And if airport security personnel refuse hand inspections, don’t argue unnecessarily. Seek out a security, airline or FAA. supervisor to inform the guard of your rights.
If all attempts at film protection fail, and your film is damaged, notify the X-Ray Awareness Committee, 11511 W. Carpenter St. Midland, MI 48640, giving them as much detail as possible.
Editor’s note: This report flies in contrast to other reports on the subject. So, the jury is still out. Again here are few reminders to help in having your film not x-rayed.