Frequently Asked Questions

Commercial buildings typically use cabinet x-ray scanners or conveyor x-ray scanners for screening mail, parcels, and visitor belongings. The right system depends on the size of the building, the volume of items being screened, and the level of security required.

Yes. Cabinet x-ray scanners are ideal for office reception areas because they are closed-source radiation units and can safely operate in occupied environments without requiring large exclusion zones.

Yes. Compact cabinet scanners are designed for letters and small parcels, while conveyor scanners can process larger items. Smaller conveyor systems can also be installed in office environments with appropriate safety spacing.

Mailrooms typically use conveyor x-ray scanners for higher throughput environments and cabinet scanners for smaller operations. Conveyor systems are ideal for large parcels and bags, while cabinet scanners are highly effective for letters and small parcels to detect powders and liquids.

Visitor bag screening usually involves conveyor x-ray scanners combined with walk-through metal detection archways. This setup allows efficient and controlled screening similar to airport-style security. 

Corporate offices may require cabinet scanners, conveyor scanners, walk-through metal detectors, handheld detection devices, and additional threat detection systems depending on risk levels. 

The best scanner depends on the volume and type of incoming mail. Cabinet scanners are suitable for letters and small parcels, while conveyor systems are designed for larger and higher-volume operations.

Some advanced x-ray systems can assist in identifying suspicious powders, liquids, and organic materials when equipped with enhanced detection software. 

X-ray screening is faster, more consistent, and less intrusive than manual searches. It allows operators to inspect bags thoroughly without removing personal belongings. 

Yes. Many corporate headquarters now screen incoming mail and parcels due to increased threats targeting senior executives, directors, and high-profile organisations.

Mailroom security can be improved by screening all incoming mail and parcels, restricting unscreened deliveries at reception areas, verifying deliveries, and implementing clear security procedures.

Screening systems should be located near building entrances or within separate mailroom areas so suspicious items can be isolated without affecting wider office operations.

This is genuinely covered when you complete a postal threat assessment. 

High-risk buildings should screen all incoming mail, parcels, pallets, and visitors. Security requirements are commonly guided by PAS 97 recommendations and building-specific threat assessments. 

Incoming parcels and deliveries are screened by security staff before tenants are notified. Buildings often use tracking systems to log deliveries and manage collection or internal distribution securely. 

No. Martin’s Law does not specifically require x-ray equipment. Organisations must demonstrate they have considered appropriate security measures and implemented reasonable procedures based on their risk level and visitor numbers.

No. There is no specific category of “Martin’s Law compliant” equipment because the legislation focuses on preparedness and risk mitigation, based on the venues requirements rather than mandatory technology purchases.

No. Martin’s Law does not mandate x-ray screening equipment. However, organisations are expected to review and regularly update their security procedures and threat mitigation plans. 

Many organisations are introducing enhanced bag searches, metal detection wands, walk-through archways, CCTV systems, and full screening solutions depending on venue size and risk profile. 

Cabinet x-ray scanners require minimal compliance because they are closed-source radiation units. Conveyor scanners require additional controls, including a Radiation Protection Supervisor (RPS) and support from a Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA) to comply with IRR17 regulations. 

Cabinet scanners are classed as closed-source radiation units and have minimal requirements. Conveyor systems are open-ended radiation units and must comply with IRR17 regulations.

Local rules are documented procedures that define responsibilities, operating methods, equipment use, and emergency actions within an x-ray screening environment. 

X-ray screening equipment must be installed and commissioned by trained engineers with radiation safety expertise. 

Most x-ray systems can be installed and commissioned within a few hours. User training is typically completed on the same day to ensure safe operation. 

All x-ray scanners require regular servicing and radiation safety testing. Most systems require at least two maintenance visits per year to comply with health and safety regulations (IRR17) and maintain certification. 

Maintenance contracts can include preventative servicing, safety certification, emergency callouts, labour, replacement parts, software support and ongoing operator training.

Commercial screening projects can take several months to complete, especially within facilities management contracts where security is part of a wider building management tender process.

Pricing depends on system size, scanning capacity, software options, installation requirements, servicing agreements, and staff training needs.

Yes. Refurbished and ex-demonstration x-ray security scanners are available for organisations seeking a more cost-effective screening solution. 

Yes. Portable x-ray screening systems are available for temporary events, short-term contracts, and pop-up security requirements. Installation and commissioning must still be completed by qualified engineers.

Yes. Short-term rental options are available across the UK, ranging from single-day hire to multi-month contracts, including installation, commissioning, and user training. 

The cost of a security screening x-ray machine depends on factors such as the size of the scanner, the type of items being screened, software requirements, installation, operator training, and ongoing maintenance. Smaller cabinet scanners for letters and parcels are generally less expensive than larger conveyor systems used for mailrooms, visitor screening, and high-volume security operations.

Because every organisation has different security requirements, the best way to obtain an accurate price is through a security assessment. This ensures the equipment is matched to your level of risk, throughput requirements, and available space.