Three Questions Hospital Administrators Need to Ask Themselves Before Selecting a Weapons Detection System

In recent years, hospital security has become a top concern for administrators. With the increase in violence in public spaces, hospitals are not immune to these incidents. As such, many hospitals are now looking to install weapons detection systems to help prevent these types of incidents. However, selecting the right weapons detection system can be a daunting task.

Here are three questions hospital administrators should ask themselves before selecting a weapons detection system:

What weapons do I want to detect?

Before selecting a weapons detection system, hospital administrators must first determine what type of weapons they want to detect. While guns are an obvious concern, the majority of weapons confiscated in emergency departments are knives, box cutters, and other bladed weapons, as identified in a recent study of a large urban healthcare system. In the study, researchers discovered that nearly 67% of weapons confiscated were bladed instruments, while 0.3% were guns. This is an important fact that hospital administrators should consider before selecting a new detection system because while most weapons detection systems can detect firearms, only some systems can detect these further ranges of threat items.

What experience do I want to create for my patients and visitors?

Hospital administrators must also consider the experience they want to create for their patients and visitors. A weapons detection system can create a sense of safety and security, but it can also create a sense of fear and anxiety. Administrators should select a system that is discreet and does not create an intimidating environment for patients and visitors. Additionally, administrators should consider how the system will impact the flow of traffic in their facility and select a system that can be easily integrated into their existing security protocols.

How easy is it to implement?

Finally, hospital administrators should consider how easy it is to implement the weapons detection system. Implementing a new security system can be a complex and time-consuming process. Administrators should select a system that is easy to set up and can be integrated seamlessly into their existing security infrastructure. Additionally, administrators should consider the training and support that the vendor will provide and ensure that their staff is fully trained in the system’s operation.

In conclusion, selecting the right weapons detection system for a hospital can be challenging. Hospital administrators must consider the types of weapons they want to detect, the experience they want to create for their patients and visitors, and how easy it is to implement the system. By answering these three questions, hospital administrators can select a weapons detection system that provides the right level of security while also creating a welcoming and safe environment for their patients and visitors.