EC Holds Workshop on Body Scanners as Part of Aviation Security Efforts
November 7, 2008 // Published as a news service by IHS
On Nov. 6, the European Commission (EC) held a workshop on body scanners as a first step in addressing the impact of this equipment and aviation security measures on human rights, privacy, personal dignity, health and data protection.
The EC's effort is being done in close cooperation with the European Parliament, the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS), manufacturers and national authorities.
The aim of the workshop was to exchange information and examine issues relating to body scanners, including the results of trials at London Heathrow Airport, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and Helsinki Vantaa Airport.
Manufacturers involved in these trials made presentations on how body scanner work and demonstrated the two technologies used for the trials.
Following these presentations, airport operators discussed operational issues and representatives of European Union member states discussed regulatory issues.
In order to address issues relating to fundamental rights, privacy, personal dignity, health and data protection, the airport trials were only allowed under strict conditions. The EC will continue this process and consult with the EDPS, the Article 29 Working Party and the Fundamental Rights Agency.
Additional possibilities that will allow all parties concerned to exchange information on body scanners, while addressing legitimate concerns, are under discussion, and will be presented shortly.
Source: European Commission.