Incidents of violence against health care workers are on the rise across the U.S. The safety and well-being of Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s people and patients is the institution’s first priority. However, personal safety and security is a shared responsibility for everyone.
Going forward, wearing your VUMC-issued ID badge will be increasingly important. Vanderbilt University Police Department (VUPD) will be increasing efforts to identify employees and visitors who are not displaying appropriate identification.
In accordance with VUMC’s policy, Dress Code, Identification Badges and Personal Appearance, identification badges must be worn above the waist with your name, title and photo clearly visible.
As a reminder, and in accordance with VUMC policy, Physical Security at VUMC, Vanderbilt University Police Department, VUPD may request identification of people who are within the facility at any time.
You are encouraged to check with individuals, whether they appear to be employees or visitors, who are not wearing a VUMC-issued ID badge or appropriately displaying a ‘Visitor’ sticker, indicating they were screened at a facility entrance, while inside VUMC’s facilities. If you feel uncomfortable, call VUPD.
There are additional steps you can take to help keep yourself and others safe in the workplace.
Visitors who stay in VUMCs hospitals after 9 p.m. are required to have a visitor pass. Individuals who do not have a pass are asked to leave as visitation hours end.
Employees should be careful when entering “Card Access Only” or “Employees Only” areas not to allow non-ID employees or visitors to ‘tailgate’ in behind them.
All employees are encouraged to keep doors secure – don’t prop them open, and don’t share access codes, or allow unidentified individuals to enter. Report broken doors or locks to Facilities Management promptly.
Staff are encouraged to interact with VUPD regarding concerns. Situations where VUPD may be needed include crimes that have occurred, when suspicious activity is observed, or when someone is beginning to escalate their behavior where verbal or a physical assault may occur.
To contact VUPD:
For an emergency – dial 911 from a Vanderbilt phone or (615) 421-1911 from your cellphone
Non-Emergency – dial 615-322-2745
