Introduction
To get the most out of Garrett handheld metal detectors, your security team needs not just tools—but training. Proper use, consistent protocols, and regular practice mean better detection, fewer false alarms, and safer environments. This guide provides best practices for training your security personnel so they can use Garrett handheld detectors with confidence and precision.
1. Understand the Features & Proper Handling
- Teach the team the specific model(s) of Garrett detectors you own: SuperWand, Super Scanner V, etc. Understand what features each has (e.g. alarm modes, sensitivity settings, detection zones).
- Demonstrate how to hold the detector correctly: distance from body, angle, and motion. Garrett handhelds often require movement over the area rather than holding still.
- Show how to use different alarm modes (sound, vibration, LED) and when to use each depending on noise environment or necessity for discretion.
- Ensure everyone knows how and when to check/replace batteries, inspect for physical damage, and confirm that detection components are clean and unobstructed.
2. Basic Screening Procedures
- Train the full outline sweep: start from head, move down the arms, sides, legs, front, back. Make sure entire body perimeter is scanned.
- Teach how to screen footwear and carried items (bags, outerwear) thoroughly.
- Show how to manage screening when dealing with different clothing types (long skirts, coats, layered clothes).
- Establish protocol for secondary screening: what to do when the detector alarms (ask about metallic items, perform focused sweep, request removal if needed).
3. Dealing with Special Situations
- Procedures for persons with disabilities: modified screening techniques, communication first, limitations if mobility aids, prosthetics, etc.
- How to handle medical implants or devices (pacemakers etc.)—inform the person, screen gently, follow health/safety guidelines.
- Screening service animals while respecting guidelines and comfort.
4. Maintaining Accuracy & Reducing False Alarms
- Teach correct calibration or sensitivity settings—understanding environmental factors (metal structures nearby, electromagnetic interference) that can cause false alarms.
- Use detector over typical non-threat metal objects during training so staff learn what background metal or benign items trigger alarms, and how to distinguish real threats vs harmless items.
- Regular testing: before each shift, test detectors on known test objects to confirm they are working.
5. Safety & Communication
- Train staff to communicate with people being screened clearly and politely. Explain the process: “I will use this detector on you; if you hear an alarm, I may ask you to remove items or have a more focused scan.”
- Use consistent phrasing to avoid misunderstandings.
- Ensure officers respect privacy and handle sensitive cases (pregnant people, medical conditions, etc.) respectfully.
6. Practice & Drills
- Regular hands-on drills are important. Simulate both routine screening and difficult scenarios (crowd flow, high traffic, suspect concealed metal).
- Role play: staff member acts as visitor trying to conceal something; see if detector operator finds it.
- Evaluate performance: speed of screening, thoroughness, false alarm handling.
7. Protocols & Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Create written SOPs for your facility: how to respond to alarms, rules for what items must be removed, escalation chain if prohibited item found.
- Ensure consistency across all staff: same sweep pattern, same alarm reaction, same documentation of incidents.
- Review and update SOPs often (every few months or after incidents) to improve.
8. Monitoring, Feedback & Continual Improvement
- Keep logs: number of people screened, alarms triggered, false alarms, incidents. Review them for patterns.
- Supervisors should observe staff periodically to ensure protocol is followed, give feedback.
- Use feedback from staff: what is difficult, what is confusing, what could make screening more efficient. Adjust training accordingly.
Conclusion
Training your team to use Garrett handheld detectors effectively isn’t a one-time event—it’s an ongoing process. When staff understand device features, follow consistent procedures, practice regularly, and maintain the tools well, you’ll get reliable detection, fewer disruptions, and stronger overall security.
Call to Action
At DetectorsHub, we include training materials, hands-on setup guidance, and support for all Garrett handheld units. Reach out to ensure your security team is fully prepared—and not just equipped.