How the Intercept full-body scanner works (and how to request an exception)
Visiting someone in a Missouri Department of Corrections facility? You'll likely go through an Intercept full-body scanner during entry screening. Here's what the scanner is, who gets scanned, what other screening tools you may encounter, and how to request an exception if you're pregnant or have a medical condition.
The Intercept full-body scanner is one of several screening tools Missouri DOC uses to check people entering a facility. It works alongside walk-through metal detectors, hand-held metal detectors, and X-ray baggage scanners. Depending on what you're carrying and what staff need to verify, you may go through more than one screening step.
The Intercept scanner and other screening tools exist to keep weapons, drugs, and other prohibited items out of the facility. Contraband compromises safety and security, so Missouri DOC treats visitation as a controlled entry point with layered screening rather than a single check.
At Missouri DOC facilities, anyone age 18 or older is subject to a scan using the Intercept full-body scanner. The scan is part of standard entry screening unless an approved exception applies. If you think you'll need one, plan ahead as much as possible.
Common exceptions: Approved exceptions can include a verified medical condition or pregnancy. The key word is *approved*, so be ready to request the exception and back it up with documentation.
- Expect searches when you enter prison grounds. In Missouri DOC facilities, you, your packages, your children, and your vehicle are all subject to search.
- Plan to go through metal detection. Metal detectors are used at all Missouri DOC facilities during visitor screening.
- Complete the Itemizer wipe test if staff direct you to. You may be given an Itemizer towelette and asked to wipe your shirt front, your pockets, and the palms of your hands. The towelette is then placed into a machine to detect traces of narcotics or explosives.
Screening goes beyond just your person. Missouri DOC policy allows searches of visitors, packages, children, and vehicles when you enter prison grounds. The Intercept full-body scanner is used alongside walk-through metal detectors, hand-held metal detectors, and X-ray baggage scanners, so expect to move through multiple checks before you're cleared to visit.
How Request Exception
- ✓ Tell staff as early as possible that you are requesting an exception to the Intercept full-body scan.
- ✓ If you can, make the request in advance rather than waiting until you are already in line.
- ✓ Bring documentation that supports the exception (for example, paperwork verifying a medical condition or pregnancy).
For non-staff visitors (including vendors and contractors), exception requests go to the warden or superintendent of the facility. Even with an approved exception to the full-body scan, expect to follow the facility's normal entry screening. Visitors and their belongings are still subject to search when entering prison grounds.
Tip: Bring your supporting documentation with you. Even with an approved exception to the Intercept scan, you may still be screened using other tools like the Itemizer wipe test.
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