Addressing radiation safety challenges in security screening: distinguishing active patent travelers from illicit radioactive material transport

In Nuclear Medicine (NM), unsealed radionuclides are administered to patients for imaging and therapy. NM patients being held at Indian airports have been reported in recent time. Security official engaged in screening must distinguish medical use from illicit transport of radioactive materials. A survey was conducted with 10 hospitals nationwide that perform such procedures. If the radiation is not from the individual it might be from his/ her belonging. The belonging may be checked for plausible contamination and segregate the contaminated materials. If no contamination found, the case need to be investigated in detail. At the time of discharge, the RSO should ensure that belongings of the patient are free from radioactive contamination. Arrange to get all the personal belongings used during the treatment checked for contamination before leaving the hospital. The procedure aids security officials in distinguishing medical use from illicit radioactive material transport. It encourages cooperation from NM professionals to streamline security checks at places like airports, improving traveler screening and security