B.15.01.R3 Prisoner Scanner Search (National Requirement)

Scanner Search

1. A scanner search means a search of any person by means of any equipment that does not require the touching of that person.
   • An example is where a device such as a metal detector or walk- through scanner is used to identify whether or not the person being searched is carrying an unauthorised item.
2. A scanner search includes the authority to search any item carried by a prisoner or in a prisoner’s possession. It does not include the right to require removal, or search of, outer clothing or footwear.
3. A scanner search can be used:
   • Routinely where a walk-through metal detector is installed.
   • At any time for any prisoner, prison facility or prison vehicle for the purpose of detecting any unauthorised item.
   • To search any item carried by, or in the possession of, a prisoner being searched.
4. A person who carries out a scanner search shall conduct the search with decency and sensitivity and in a manner that affords to the person being searched the greatest degree of privacy and dignity consistent with the purpose of the search.

Scanner Search Procedure

1. The prisoner who is to be searched either by passing through a walk-through scanner or by a hand-held scanner shall first be asked to identify all metallic items on their person.
2. The prisoner is then instructed to pass through the scanner or is scanned using the handheld scanner.
3. Should the scanner activate, the officer then has the option of asking the prisoner a second time to identify any other metallic items they may have on their person and repeating the scanning procedure or proceeding directly to a rub down search or strip search (if necessary in the circumstances for the purposes of detecting any unauthorised item).