Topic: Backscatter X Ray

8 chapters across the catalog

Wonton Violence
Episode 286 1:43:55 - 1:46:21

286: Wonton Violence

TSA Body Scanners, Radiation Bookkeeping Errors, Unionization

The TSA is re-testing full-body x-ray scanners after admitting to "bookkeeping errors" regarding radiation levels. Reports suggest the actual radiation exposure could be ten times higher than previously claimed. Meanwhile, TSA agents are moving toward unionization, though they will lack collective bargaining rights.

Mavericks of Media
Episode 268 1:40:54 - 1:44:33

268: Mavericks of Media

TSA Body Scanner Radiation and Airport Security

The safety of TSA full-body scanners is questioned following reports in the Seattle Times and New York Times regarding radiation exposure and equipment malfunctions. John C. Dvorak describes his experience at the Las Vegas airport, observing TSA agents standing in close proximity to active scanners for extended periods. The hosts express concern over the long-term health effects of "spurious radiation" on both passengers and security personnel.

Radioactive Butts
Episode 255 13:00 - 16:55

255: Radioactive Butts

TSA Thanksgiving PR Strategy, Adam Curry's Disconnected Press Call

The TSA is accused of executing a strategic PR campaign during Thanksgiving by speeding up security lines to avoid predicted protests. Adam Curry recounts his attempt to join a White House telephone press conference hosted by TSA Administrator John Pistole. Curry intended to ask about radiation testing standards and why agents are forbidden from wearing dosimeters, but he was disconnected shortly after identifying himself.

Banned by NASA
Episode 251 57:34 - 1:01:29

251: Banned by NASA

National Opt-Out Day and Radiation Concerns

Activists are organizing a National Opt-Out Day for November 24th to protest TSA body scanners. Concerns from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) regarding the safety of backscatter X-ray radiation are discussed, alongside suggestions for passengers to wear dosimeters to measure exposure.

Transportation Sexual Assault (TSA)
Episode 250 42:42 - 45:01

250: Transportation Sexual Assault (TSA)

UCSF Radiation Warning, TSA Dosimeter Ban

Physicists at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) issued a memo questioning the safety of X-ray backscatter technology, noting that the energy is concentrated on the skin. The hosts report that the TSA has banned its own employees from wearing dosimeters to measure radiation exposure, allegedly to prevent public alarm. This lack of transparency regarding radiation levels is presented as a significant health scandal for both workers and travelers.

Obama Insane?
Episode 247 36:43 - 42:40

247: Obama Insane?

Z-Backscatter Mobile X-Ray Vans

Fox News reports on the use of Z-Backscatter vans by law enforcement and private companies to x-ray vehicles and cargo in public spaces. The hosts express concern over the health risks of "human subjects" being irradiated without consent and the potential for illegal searches of private property. They compare the lack of outcry over these vans to the public backlash against Google Street View cars.

Form 990
Episode 244 1:12:34 - 1:14:05

244: Form 990

TSA Body Scanners, SeaTac Airport, Radiation Concerns

The TSA is deploying 14 backscatter x-ray body scanners at SeaTac Airport as part of a nationwide rollout of 450 machines. Travelers are encouraged to "opt out" of the scans in favor of physical pat-downs to avoid potential radiation exposure. Concerns are raised regarding the long-term health effects on both passengers and TSA employees.

Eggs & Poop
Episode 229 1:37:07 - 1:41:00

229: Eggs & Poop

Z Backscatter Van, X-Ray Surveillance, AS&E Technology

American Science and Engineering (AS&E) is marketing the Z Backscatter Van, a vehicle that can x-ray other cars and containers while driving. The hosts question the physics of the device and the health risks associated with blasting x-rays in urban environments.