Body scanners are now in use in Tasmania's corrections system, with a scanner in the Hobart Reception Prison the first to come online on Monday.
Minister for Corrections and Rehabilitation, Madeleine Ogilvie, said newly-installed body scanners will come online soon in the Mary Hutchinson Women's Prison, the Risdon Prison Complex and the Launceston Reception Prison.
"The phasing in of body scanners in correctional facilities across the state fulfils our $1.3 million election commitment, in line with our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future to keep Tasmanians strong, healthy and safe," said Minister Ogilvie.
"This provides another tool to keep contraband like drugs, weapons and mobile phones out, and keeps our staff and inmates safe.
"These scanners will enable the detection of objects on or inside a person's body and clothing without the need for clothing removal or physical searching."
The scanner rollout involved a procurement process for state-of-the-art technology, infrastructure works to create appropriate spaces and their installation in prison facilities.
As part of the commissioning phase, TPS staff undertook training in safe radiation practices as well as operational training, including image analysis, to allow the use of the scanners in their regular operations.
