The Dartmouth General Hospital in Dartmouth, N.S., is implementing new security measures with the goal of keeping patients, staff and guests safer.
Nova Scotia Health says, starting this week, anyone entering the hospital’s emergency department (ED) will be searched with hand-held metal detecting wands.
The health authority says personal belongings may also be searched for dangerous objects.
Any weapons – or objects that could be used as a weapon – will be confiscated.
Dangerous items will be returned safely and securely outside the emergency department area, according to a news release from Nova Scotia Health.
“We ask that an ED visit be treated the same as the process for airport security clearance,” reads Nova Scotia Health’s news release.
“Patients and visitors can be prepared and minimize the wait by leaving weapons at home, in a vehicle or with a trusted person while at the hospital. Entry will be quicker if everyone cooperates.”
The health authority says discretion will be used by security staff if a patient arriving at the hospital needs urgent and immediate attention – adding that emergency care will not be delayed.
Halifax Infirmary safety measures already in place
The QEII’s Halifax Infirmary also implemented extra security measures after four people – including staff – were injured by a patient earlier this year.
Anyone entering the Halifax Infirmary’s emergency department through the main entrance on Bell Road has to enter through a metal detector and may be searched.
Nova Scotia Health said any weapons, or anything that could be used as a weapon, will be confiscated.
“Some confiscated items will be secured on site and returned to the patient upon discharge. All firearms and illegal weapons will be handed over to police,” reads a news release from the health authority last month.
A new visitor pass system has also been implemented at the Halifax hospital to enhance security and safety at the site.
The following measures took effect last month:
- all visitors will be issued a wearable badge upon entry
- security will also log your time of arrival and departure from the department
- the badge must be worn and visible at all times while inside the emergency department
- visitors who leave the emergency department, even briefly, will be required to undergo re-screening upon re-entry
- visitors who plan to leave the department for more than one hour should return their pass to any security officer stationed in the area
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