Many thanks for all of the contributions,

I managed to put the OH's mind at ease and fortunately the machine didn't beep. That does mean I can't report back on the second question but the consensus is that small pins are ok.

I'm enjoying the fact that the moral of the thread seems to be that security really is inconsistent, but then again I guess it has to be. Surely the queues would be shorter if we knew what to take off first though?

The bra wire issue was what got me thinking they might cause it to beep. I was once dragged into a discussion over which bras had non-airport compliant wire (can't say I contributed much), but sadly can't remember the conclusion. It did result in several 'bra tests' during subsequent trips (can't say I contributed much there either) so her entire wardrobe is now airport friendly.

My collarbones/cufflinks/watch always set the thing off, so I'm usually resigned to receiving a pat down as I don't want to risk putting them in my handbaggage. The goons at T5 really do go for the intensive method though.

Hope you all enjoy your weekends,

FlyingJ