The effectiveness of metal detectors can vary on how a school uses them.
As school districts have looked for ways to prevent school violence, some have turned to metal detectors, although the devices aren't as prevalent as other safety measures. The National Center for Education Statistics says that in 2007, only 10 percent of U.S. students ages 12 to 18 reported the use of metal detectors at their schools. While the devices can be effective, there are drawbacks and the effectiveness can vary depending on how a school uses them.
Limitations
The National Institute for Justice says that metal detectors can accurately detect knives and most types of firearms that are brought in to schools. But it notes that book bags, purses, briefcase and other objects may carry items that easily can set off an alarm on the detector. If using a walk-through metal detector, schools may be required to have more space than is available. The institute notes that it takes the proper amount of training and manpower in order for detectors to work successfully.
Costs
One of the biggest drawbacks of metal detectors is the cost, which can cost thousands of dollars per device. School districts also must hire more staff in order to supervise the detectors, and training is an additional cost. Hand-held detectors cost less -- a few hundred dollars versus thousands -- but still require the personnel to operate them.
Unintended Consequences
Metal detectors may also have unintended consequences. Students interviewed for a U.S. Department of Education School Crime Supplement study in 1999 said they were more likely to be fearful in schools that had metal detectors. Researchers suggested that the increase use of security may make students believe there is something to be concerned about. Students in the survey also reported the same amount of incidents of bullying, although security guards working the detectors were more likely to report the incidents of bullying if seen.
Effectiveness
Despite their use, school shootings have happened in buildings with detectors. The "Baltimore Sun" reported that a student at a Washington, D.C. high school shot a classmate inside a building with a detector in 2004. The newspaper also reported on a shooting in 2005 at a Minnesota school that had a detector, perimeter fencing and security guards.
Other Options
The Consortium to Prevent School Violence says that a metal detector alone is not the most effective way at preventing school violence. The consortium instead recommends targeted school violence prevention programs. The program includes a school violence leadership team at the school that includes staff and parents.
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