Business Policies and Procedures Manual
Chapter 50: Safety and Security

Security Screening and Metal Detection

BPPM 50.34

For more information contact:
   Public Safety 
   police@wsu.edu / 509-335-8548

1.0  Overview and Purpose

As part of its event planning and incident management strategy, and to help ensure the safety of students, faculty, staff, and guests, WSU reserves the right to utilize security screening, including but not limited to metal detection and other technologies, at WSU facilities and events. This policy establishes guidelines and requirements related to the use of these measures.

2.0  Applicability

This policy applies to all WSU facilities systemwide, to all persons entering a WSU facility or event, and all individuals involved in the planning and execution of large spectator events.

3.0  Requirements

3.1  Decision to Use Security Screening

WSU may use security screening, including metal detection and other technologies, at any event or WSU facility when the WSU Pullman Chief of Police or designee has determined that such measures are warranted. This decision is made in consultation with:

  • WSU Emergency Management;
  • Risk Management;
  • The office of campus safety for locations other than Pullman;
  • The director or designee of the facility where the event takes place;
  • The event sponsor (e.g., Athletics, Student Entertainment Board, or campus equivalent); and/or
  • Other WSU units, depending on the nature of the event or circumstance.

In the event of a disagreement between the WSU Pullman Chief of Police and the individual with authority over campus safety for the applicable location, the campus chancellor makes the final decision after consultation with both parties.

The campus chancellor may also decide to use security screening when the WSU Pullman Chief of Police has determined screening is not needed, if:

  • Funding is available; and
  • The decision to use security screening is based on appropriate and documented factors such as consistency with similar events.

WSU uses a risk assessment process to determine whether to use security screening and the nature of the screening to be used. The risk assessment is based on factors including, but not limited to:

  • The number of participants at the event
  • The location of the event
  • Whether alcohol is served at the event
  • Other security measures to be used (e.g., video security systems, clear bag requirements)
  • The existence of identifiable risks or threats
  • A history of security issues related to the specific event, speaker, group, or venue
  • Feasibility of deploying screening devices at specific times or locations

The basis for the decision to use security screening, and the nature of the screening to be used, must be documented in writing in advance of the event, along with a staffing and funding plan. Funding for security screening is typically the responsibility of the event sponsor/organizer.

3.2   Advance Notice

Event organizers should:

  • Request a risk assessment for security screening as early as possible in the event planning process; and
  • Provide clear and timely notice to attendees regarding the use of metal detection or similar technologies at a particular event. When possible, such notice is provided in advance of the event.

    The notice provides information regarding the nature of the screening, entry procedures, prohibited items, and expected wait times, and should advise participants to arrive early to allow extra time for screening.

3.3   Nondiscrimination and Reasonable Accommodation

Decisions regarding the use of security screening, including metal detection and other technologies, may not be based on reasons that violate EP15 Policy on Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct.

University officials involved in these decisions are strongly encouraged to complete implicit bias training, which is available through Human Resource Services Learning and Organizational Development.

Reasonable accommodation of individuals with disabilities is provided during the security screening.

4.0   References and Resources

WAC 504-36-030 Spectator events – Safety rules

BPPM 50.35 Video Security Systems

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Revisions:  Dec. 2023 – new policy (Rev. 620)