When passing the hand-held metal detector over a visitor's clothing, how far must it be held from the clothing of the person?

When using a hand-held metal detector on a visitor’s clothing, holding the device one half inch away is the recommended practice. This distance is optimal for accurately detecting metallic objects while minimizing any potential discomfort or alarm for the individual being screened.

The rationale behind maintaining this specific distance is tied to the operational parameters of metal detectors, which are calibrated to pick up metal signals effectively at close range. Holding the detector too far away may result in missed detections, as the sensitivity decreases with greater distance from the source of the metal. Conversely, being too close could lead to false alarms or unnecessary discomfort for the person being screened.

This practice is integral to ensuring a balance between thorough security checks and maintaining the dignity and comfort of visitors. Understanding the appropriate distance for operation enhances the effectiveness of screening procedures within correctional facilities.