Metal Detector FAQ | University of Portland

Metal Detector FAQ

Why has this policy been adopted?
Safety and security policies are reviewed each year, looking for ways to improve them.  These proactive and preventative measures will both enhance safety inside the venues and speed the security screening process for all fans.  The public deserves to be in a safe, secure environment.  This is about both safety and the overall fan experience.

How does this make it more convenient for guests?
This will enable us to move guests through our security checkpoints faster, allowing staff to be more efficient and effective in checking bags that are brought into the venue.  We also believe guests will realize an improved sense of safety.

How many bags can each person bring into the venue?
Each ticketed guest can carry one bag that is no larger than 12" by 12" by 6".

What happens if I show up at the entrance with a bag or other item that is not permitted?
Guests carrying bags that do not meet the criteria or any prohibited item will be asked to return them to their vehicles. All prohibited items will not be allowed into the venue, guests must return such items to their vehicle.

I have a concealed weapons permit; can I bring in my firearm? 
University of Portland is a private property and reserves the right to prohibit firearms from campus.  Concealed weapons permit holders are not exempt from the restriction and cannot bring firearms on campus. 

If I have certain items that I need to bring into the venue for medical reasons and they are larger than the permitted bag, what do I do?
Guests carrying medically necessary bags or equipment into a venue will be required to have their bag inspected by security. Guests with such items should enter the arena through an ADA screening lane. For questions about medical equipment or other needs please contact Campus Safety at 503.943.7161.

What items do I need to remove from my pockets or clothing before walking through the metal detectors? 
All items need to be removed from your pockets, including keys, cell phones and wallets.  

Do I have to remove my shoes and other metal including belts, jewelry, hair clips? 
Unlike at an airport, guests do NOT need to remove shoes, belts, small jewelry, or hair clips.
 
What if an alarm sounds?
If an alarm is triggered, a secondary search will be conducted by event staff using a hand-held metal detector.

What about diaper bags?
Diapers and other baby supplies can be carried into the venue, a bag search will be conducted. 

If I use a wheelchair, scooter or walker, do I still pass through the metal detectors?
Guest with disabilities or assistive devices may be screened in the ADA entrance lane using a hand-held metal detector instead of utilizing the walk through metal detector.
 
If I have an artificial hip/knee, a pacemaker, or other medical concerns, do I still have to pass through the metal detectors? 
Guests with medical devices should consult their doctor or device manufacturer if unsure of their ability to utilize a walk-through metal detector. Event staff will not give advice regarding any medical devices. Guests who are unable to use a walk-through metal detector should utilize the designated ADA lane.
 
Guests should notify event staff that they have a medical device. Guests who are screened with a hand-held metal detector will be asked to place their palm over the area of the device so that it can be avoided during screening. After hand-held metal detector screening is complete, event staff will clear the area of the device using a physical pat-down.
 
If I am an expectant mother, do I have to pass through the metal detectors?
Expectant mothers should consult their doctor if unsure of their ability to utilize a walk-through metal detector. Event staff will not give advice regarding the ability of an expectant mother to utilize a walk-through metal detector. Guests who are unable to use a walk-through metal detector should utilize the designated ADA lane.
 
What is the policy for children?
Children are subject to screening, however, infants and toddlers may be carried with their parents/guardian through the walk-through metal detector. Children who are able to walk through will be asked to go through on their own. If the walk-through metal detector alarms for items on a child, secondary screening will occur in the presence of a parent/guardian. Designated ADA lanes are available for families with small children who opt to be screened with a hand-held metal detector.