Why is Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt installing weapons detection screening technology?
The safety and well-being of our patients, families and employees is our top priority. In addition to security measures currently in place, we are implementing the weapons detection technology at all key entrances as additional safeguards and as part of our comprehensive physical security measures.
Where will the weapons detection screening systems be located?
The weapons detection screening devices will be located at all key entrances of Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt — the Emergency Department, the first-floor main entrance, and the second-floor entrance from the South garage.
Which weapons detection technology is being used?
Each entrance will employ different technology.
- The Emergency Department uses a traditional metal detector. Metal items and electronic devices must be taken out before entering the metal detector.
- The first-floor main entrance and second-floor entrance use screening technology that does not require pockets to be emptied. Laptop computers/tablets and certain metal objects, ie metal water bottles/coffee tumblers and some eyeglass cases, should be removed prior to the screening process.
Do other health care systems or hospitals check for weapons or use weapons detection technology?
Yes. Several health care systems, including children’s hospitals, across the nation have implemented weapons detection screening. Examples include Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinics, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Texas Children’s, St. Louis Children’s, among many others.
Which entrance do I use to get into the building after-hours (9 p.m.-5 a.m.)?
During after-hours, from 9 p.m.-5 a.m., all visitors and employees should enter the hospital through the second-floor entrance from the South Garage.
How long will it take to get through security screening?
The screening should have minimal impact on entry to the building. The weapons detection screening systems on the first- and second-floor entrances are designed to screen large crowds quickly, allowing people to pass through while carrying bags, luggage and backpacks and without emptying their pockets. However, laptop computers/tablets and certain metal objects, ie water bottles/coffee tumblers and some eyeglass cases, should be removed prior to screening process as they will set off an alert.
Additionally, because the ED entrance has a traditional metal detector, individuals will be required to empty pockets/bags of metal and electronic devices.
What happens if the weapons detection system alerts security staff of a possible weapon?
The weapons detection sensor technology will alert security staff of a possible weapon and capture an image of where a potential weapon is located. The image helps security know where to focus during a secondary screening. If a secondary screening is needed, the individual will be asked to step aside to verify if there is an item is present. This screening can include a separate handheld weapon detection scanner or permission for visual inspection of any bags. If a weapon is found, the individual will be asked to remove the weapon from the premises before being allowed to return to the building and pass through the screening again.
Can I go through the weapons detection screening with a stroller, wheelchair or car seat?
Yes. Individuals can go through the weapons detection screening system with strollers, wheelchairs and car seats. Some stroller handles may cause the system to alert and will be evaluated by the officer on site.
Will I have to remove items from my pockets?
The screening technology on the first-floor main entrance and the second-floor entrance do not require individuals to remove items like keys, change or cell phones from pockets. The technology is designed to detect weapons, not metal. However, the ED entrance will require individuals to remove metal and electronics from pockets and bags.
Will my implantable medical device set off the screening device?
Implanted medical devices should not set off the detectors. Any alerts to security will be followed up with a secondary screening to determine if a weapon is present.
