NORFOLK, Va. — This week, OSHA and the Transportation Security Administration leaders tested radiation levels at Norfolk International Airport.
TSA officers wore devices to track radiation levels from airport scanners.
“It’s to ensure everyone is safe,” said TSA officer and Local AFGE 443 member Sherry Markham.
For more than a decade, Markham has worked as a TSA officer. She said radiation levels possibly impacting her health had crossed her mind.
“Like I said, seven hours near these machines, you know, if there is any exposure that could cause any type of health condition, it’s a concern,” said Markham.
However, relief came Wednesday when leaders with OSHA and the TSA tested radiation levels. Employees were required to wear devices to collect levels.
The President of the American Federation of Government Employees Local 443 said while exposure levels are [minimal] for passengers, they are high for TSA officers.
“The aging of the machines is always a concern because, with age, wear, and tear, there’s the potential for a device to not perform at a hundred percent again; we want to make sure that these are the safest workplaces it can be,” said union president of local 443 Scott Robinson.
Fortunately, Robinson said radiation levels were in good standing, which is good news for employees.
“I think it’s a great thing to ensure the safety of the officers,” said Markham.
Robinson said a similar test was conducted in 2018 after workers voiced concerns over radiation levels. He said the tests are conducted when needed, and results are available upon request.