The Soter RS security body scanner, which can detect organic and inorganic materials, includ- ing hidden contraband on people, is now available in South Africa, says body scanning security application company ODSecurity spokesperson in South Africa Dominique Mabaso.

The system can identify anything carried inside or on a human’s body that is illegal or a safety risk. This is accomplished without being invasive or exposing sensitive body parts. Unlike metal detectors, the Soter RS scanner can detect any object of any substance and size within a ten-second scanning cycle. Other advanced body imaging scanners can only detect objects carried on the body, not those inserted inside a body.

The system is manufactured in the Netherlands, by ODSecurity, a subsidiary of ODMedical, which is known for its X-ray technology for tuberculosis detection. The Soter RS only emits a fraction of radiation compared with typical medical X-rays. Users are exposed to less radiation than that received during a routine flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town.

The company introduced the first scanner into the market in 2005 and it was installed in many airports and prisons in the UK. The company has since improved the scanner technology and the Soter RS was introduced into the market as a low-dose body scanner for security purposes in November 2006. The later model has been installed in many airports and prisons around the world.

Benefits of the system include accurately identifying smuggled drugs, weapons and communication devices into prisons, as well as offering solutions to the latest terrorist ploys. It also eliminates the need for physical searching in high-risk areas, such as courts, prisons and at airports, and identifies drug smugglers. She says that any person attempting a terrorist attack would refrain from using any airport with a Soter RS installed, as the chances of being caught are much greater, but, unfortunately, there are still many airports without such a system.

Mabaso says that the scanner has not yet been installed in South Africa, but the 2010 FIFA World Cup is an opportune time for airports to enhance security.

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