London Health Sciences Centre in southwestern Ontario has become the latest Canadian hospital to implement AI-driven weapons detection systems in its emergency department to combat rising violence against healthcare workers. The system, which was launched at University Hospital on April 15, will be installed at Victoria Hospital on May 6.
David Musyj, the head of the health sciences centre, explained that while AI weapons detectors were under consideration long before the hospital’s decision, it was a disturbing incident in December, when a gunman chased someone into the hospital, that prompted action. Musyj emphasized the importance of recognizing that violence can infiltrate hospital walls just as it does outside.
Unlike standard metal detectors, the AI technology is designed to specifically identify dangerous objects like guns and knives without requiring individuals to remove personal items such as cellphones or belts. When a concerning item is detected, a nearby security guard inspects it to ensure it is either legally allowed or calls the police if it is not.
On its first day of operation, the system detected seven knives, according to Musyj. While most individuals carrying knives did so without malicious intent, he stressed the importance of educating the public about the risks of bringing sharp objects to hospitals.
Windsor Regional Hospital, which started using AI weapons detectors in October 2023, reported a significant reduction in daily finds—from around 20 knives to about six. Mike Broderick, the hospital’s manager of safety and security, noted that the decreasing numbers suggest that patients are becoming more aware of the hospital’s security measures.
While AI weapons detectors are a key part of hospital safety, both Musyj and Broderick highlighted that these measures are part of a broader strategy to improve security. This includes visible security guards, enhanced lighting, additional cameras, and panic buttons for staff. Other hospitals, like Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre and the QEII Halifax Infirmary, have also installed similar AI weapons detection systems.
However, not all hospitals are embracing these high-tech solutions. University Health Network (UHN) in Toronto, for example, has opted for different approaches, citing data that most assaults in its emergency departments are verbal or physical rather than involving weapons. UHN has invested in staff training for situational awareness, de-escalation, and self-defense, along with wearable devices like body cameras and panic buttons for staff. Their strategy focuses on promoting mutual respect between staff and patients, which has proven effective in creating safer environments.
As hospitals continue to adapt to the evolving challenges of healthcare security, the integration of technology like AI weapons detectors and staff training programs represents a crucial step in protecting both workers and patients.
Source: Swifteradio.com
