Which of the following is a valid approach to respond to a fixed screening alarm?

• A. Using portable screening equipment
• B. Hand Screening
• C. Manual Search
• D. Monitor closed circuit television (CCTV)

Answer: (C)

Responding to a fixed screening alarm requires a controlled, physical verification to determine what triggered the alarm. A manual search provides the systematic process for inspecting the person and their belongings, using approved procedures, to locate any concealed item and to clear the alarm if nothing prohibited is found. This approach is thorough and actionable, covering both the search of clothing and bags and any necessary follow-up actions to ensure safety and proper handling of evidence.

Hand screening is a component of the manual search—the hands-on checking of pockets, clothing, and belongings—but the term manual search refers to the full set of procedures, not just a single technique. Portable screening equipment and CCTV serve supportive roles. Portable screening devices aren’t the primary response to a fixed alarm at that checkpoint, since they don’t directly resolve what caused the alarm. CCTV provides situational awareness and can guide where to search, but it cannot physically locate concealed items or clear the alarm on its own.