Frequently Asked Questions

We recognise that often X-ray scanning, metal detection and security can be confusing, so here you’ll find answers to all of our frequently asked questions. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with a member of our team.

In business since 1950, Todd Research is a proven and respected manufacturer of high-end x-ray scanning machines. For more information about our company, visit our About Us page.

Generally you would use an x-ray cabinet scanner for the scanning of post and small bags and an x-ray conveyor to scan larger items or when you have a steady flow of items to scan.

Yes! We have stringent safety tests throughout our manufacturing process and regularly measure radiation levels as part of our ongoing service contracts.

We have full compliance with the Ionising Radiation Regulations 2017 (IRR2017).

All of our x-ray cabinet scanners have bespoke Enhanced Powder Detection (EPD) software. This will highlight any powders that are in the scanned packages or envelopes.

Yes. We have a full range of x-ray cabinets and conveyors to cater for a wide range of customer requirements. Check out Our Products for more information.

Yes. We have a fully comprehensive service offering that covers parts, labour, and engineer time, meaning that you’ll have no unexpected costs (Terms & Conditions apply).

Yes. We have a highly trained team of multi-skilled engineers that can service the vast majority of makes and models of x-ray machine.

Our experienced team offer a wealth of knowledge when it comes to assessing threats and security risk and assisting in the design of a mailroom. We will offer expertise that falls in line with the current CPNI/BSI guidance as laid out in PAS97 and PAS127.

Yes. We can provide a range of leasing options with payments spread over 3 or 5 years.

Yes. We offer full safe disposal of all makes and models of x-ray machines. Once your machine has been recycled we will issue a safe disposal certificate in compliance with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE Directive).

Yes. Our engineers will carry out refresher training on the use of the x-ray scanner during routine service visits. This includes what to look out for as well as using the machine to its full potential and using enhancement tools to get the best possible images.

We hold regular Suspect Package Courses. Highfield endorses all of these courses and attendance counts towards 4 hours of CPD training.

This is dependent on what type of x-ray unit you own. If you own a conveyor machine then it is a legal requirement to appoint an RPS. Although this is NOT a legal requirement for cabinet x-ray units, it is considered as best practice. We offer regular RPS training courses to help upskill members of staff.

Yes. Todd research supplies a wide range of metal detection equipment from handhelds to walkthroughs and ferromagnetic detectors. Check out Our Products for more information.

Yes. The food standards agencies have conducted extensive studies on this subject and there is no evidence whatsoever to suggest that this is harmful. Most foods, drinks and medicines will pass through an x-ray unit as part of the manufacturing processes.

Yes. It is safe to use an x-ray machine while pregnant, however there are some recommend guidelines recommended by the HSE. More guidance on this topic can be found at http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg334.pdf


Yes. The dose rate for a scan is not strong enough to damage electronic equipment or hard drives.

We have a fleet of hire machines available for short-term hire.

Go to the Contact Us page and get in touch either by phone or email. A member of our expert team will be in touch to consult with you and give you the best possible advice.

Yes. It is a mandatory requirement to notify the HSE of your intentions to use an x-ray scanner. More information from the HSE can be found at http://www.hse.gov.uk/radiation/ionising/notification.htm


Yes. We are always interested in speaking to companies that have an interest in our distributing our products. Please contact us for more details.

Yes we work very closely with consultants and specifiers wishing to specify our equipment. Please contact us for more details.