New new FAA-certified explosive detection scanning equipment can jeopardize your film, according to experts at Kodak. X-ray equipment used to inspect carry-on baggage uses a very low level of X-radiation that will not cause noticeable damage to your film. However, baggage that is checked sometimes goes through the equipment with higher-energy X-rays. Kodak has outlined some suggestions for avoiding fogged film:
- Don't place single-use cameras or unprocessed film in any luggage or baggage that will be checked.
- If an attendant or security personnel informs you that your carry-on baggage must be stowed with the checked luggage or go through a second scan, you should remove your unprocessed film.
- Have your exposed film processed locally before passing through airport security on your return trip.
- If you're going to be traveling through multiple X-ray examinations (more than five times), request a hand search of your carry-on baggage. FAA regulations in the U.S. allow for a hand search of photographic film and equipment, if requested. However, non-U.S. airports may not honor this request.
- If you're asked to step aside for a more thorough search of your carry-on baggage, you should be advised that film could be harmed and you should take it out of your luggage.
- Lead-lined bags, available from photo retailers, will weaken the X-radiation on film and reduce potential harm. However, the effectiveness of any particular lead bag depends on the intensity and electric potential of the X-ray generator, the lead's thickness and the film speed. If you use a lead bag, check with the manufacturer for the effectiveness of their products with airport X-ray devices. The inspection process may be triggered by a lead bag on the scanner screen.
- Consider shipping unexposed or exposed film through an expedited carrier, but first check with the carrier to determine what package examination procedures they are using.
