Members of Congress are seeking data to determine just how much radiation is emitted from new airport full body X-ray scanning machines. Not only does it affect travelers, many who choose to opt out of the scan, but there is controversy on just how much radiation Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers are being exposed to, according to the news website Fair Warning.
USA Today has tried unsuccessfully to obtain inspection reports from TSA, specifically looking for reports for 4,080 X-ray machines and for 221 full-body X-ray scanners. TSA insists the radiation emitted is low. A 2008 report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that some X-ray machines are missing protective lead curtains. Since that report, TSA says it began using a different maintenance contractor for the X-ray machines.
A House Committee on Federal Workforce Issues is also concerned about radiation exposure to TSA workers. Rep. Edward Markey has sent a letter asking the Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security to investigate TSA and X-ray screening equipment because of its lack of any expertise in radiation health and safety that may be unintentionally exposing the public and TSA workers to excessive radiation. TSA is responsible for inspecting its own devices, unlike X-ray machines at a local courthouse that would be inspected by the state.
Despite all of the assurances, some TSA workers would like the machines checked and do not believe TSA has done all it can to maintain and monitor the X-ray machines.
If you have been injured or become ill by equipment or toxins in the workplace, the Florida workers’ compensation lawyers at Farah & Farah can help you if your employer or its insurance company is reluctant to compensate you for your injury or illness.