PAS 97:2021 (Specification for Mail Screening and Security)

Understanding PAS 97:2021 Requirements for X-Ray Mail Screening

PAS 97:2021 places significant emphasis on the effectiveness of x-ray screening operations and the ability of organisations to identify suspicious items before they enter secure environments.

Equipment Selection & Performance

Modern x-ray security systems must provide sufficient penetration and wire-resolution performance to accurately screen the range of mail items processed within the facility, from standard letters through to dense parcels and freight consignments.

Dual-energy x-ray can play a critical role in modern threat detection by allowing operators to distinguish between organic and inorganic materials. This capability assists operators in identifying materials and objects that may warrant further investigation, including substances with characteristics consistent with known threat materials.

For higher-security environments, integration with image archive systems is also essential. Archived images provide valuable retrospective analysis capabilities in the event of an incident investigation or security breach review.

Whether deploying a compact x-ray security cabinet scanner in an executive mailroom or a high-throughput x-ray security conveyor scanner within a logistics hub, equipment performance must align with operational risk assessments and screening requirements.

Operational Procedures Matter as Much as Technology

Even the most advanced screening equipment is only effective when supported by robust operational procedures.

PAS 97:2021 highlights the importance of clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), particularly for dealing with “dark” or impenetrable items that cannot be fully cleared through x-ray analysis alone. Operators must understand escalation procedures, isolation protocols and secondary inspection requirements.

Operator performance can also be significantly impacted by unrealistic throughput expectations. Effective image analysis requires sufficient time and concentration to identify subtle threat indicators without fatigue-driven errors.

Threat Image Projection (TIP) systems can help maintain operator vigilance by presenting realistic simulated threat images during screening activities. This supports ongoing competency development and helps reduce the risk of operators becoming desensitised to routine images over time.

Operator Training & Competency

One of the most critical elements of PAS 97:2021 compliance is ensuring that x-ray operators are properly trained, regularly assessed and supported through fatigue management procedures.

Operators should undergo formal competency assessments at scheduled intervals to verify their ability to identify prohibited items, improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and CBR indicators within complex x-ray imagery.

To reduce fatigue and maintain image interpretation accuracy, organisations should also implement structured operator rotation schedules and mandatory screen breaks. Extended periods of uninterrupted image analysis can significantly reduce detection performance over time.

In addition to operational competency, all personnel must receive comprehensive health and safety training, including radiation awareness, emergency stop procedures and safe equipment operation protocols.

Maintenance, Testing & Compliance

PAS 97:2021 also reinforces the importance of preventative maintenance and ongoing system verification.

Regular image quality checks using recognised test pieces, such as the UK Mail Screening Test Piece (MSTP), can help confirm that scanners continue to operate within expected performance parameters.

Routine servicing, calibration, and preventative maintenance should be documented to ensure equipment performance remains compliant with manufacturer specifications and operational standards.

Organisations must also have clearly defined incident response procedures in place. If an x-ray image indicates the presence of a suspected IED or CBR threat, operators should immediately initiate isolation protocols and follow established emergency escalation procedures.

Designing a Secure Mailroom Environment

The physical layout of the screening environment is equally important in preventing security failures.

X-ray monitors should be positioned to minimise glare and prevent unauthorised viewing of screening images by visitors or members of the public. Controlled access to screening areas helps maintain operational security and protects sensitive screening activity.

Workflow design is another critical consideration. Effective mailroom layouts should prevent screened and unscreened items from mixing at any stage of the process, eliminating potential bypass opportunities that could compromise the integrity of the screening operation.

Why Businesses Choose My Group Security

Implementing a mailroom security strategy that aligns with PAS 97:2021 requires specialist expertise, operational understanding and reliable technology support.

At My Group Security, we help organisations across the UK implement tailored x-ray screening solutions designed around their operational requirements and threat profile.

Our Services Include:

• Advanced x-ray security cabinet scanners and high-volume conveyor screening systems
• Mailroom security assessments based on PAS 97:2021 principles
• Preventative maintenance and calibration support
• Operator training and competency development programmes
• Risk-based workflow and screening process design
• Technical support and system optimisation

Our approach combines industry-leading screening technology with practical operational expertise to ensure your mailroom security procedures remain effective, compliant and resilient.

Secure Your Mailroom with Confidence

Postal-delivered threats continue to evolve, making proactive mailroom security more important than ever.

My Group Security provides UK organisations with trusted guidance, advanced x-ray screening systems, and specialist support to help meet the demands of PAS 97:2021 and strengthen overall organisational security.

Contact our team today to discuss your mail screening requirements and discover how we can help protect your people, assets and operations.