Permanent artificial intelligence (AI) weapon scanners have been installed at the emergency departments at Health Sciences Centre Winnipeg to help address safety and security concerns raised by front-line workers.
“When you enter an emergency room, the only thing you should be concerned about is your health or the health of your loved one,” said Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara. “Over the last several years, safety has been a growing concern for patients and the front lines alike. Permanently installing weapons scanners at HSC is one of many steps we are taking to increase safety at health-care facilities throughout the province.”
Weapon scanners were successfully piloted at HSC, receiving positive feedback from staff working in the emergency department, said the minister, adding staff surveys noted less congestion in the waiting area and a better workplace overall. The permanent scanners are in at the HSC adult emergency department, the children’s emergency department and the Mental Health Crisis Response Centre.
“When we trialed the weapon detectors in the summer, I actually felt safe at work,” said Joanne Paterson, clinical resource nurse, Health Sciences Centre. “With the new equipment and two security guards sitting at the front door, we didn’t have to worry about people bringing weapons or sharp objects into our workplace. Thanks for letting us focus on our patients.”
The Manitoba government is committed to addressing safety and security concerns raised by front-line workers during the health-care listening tour, noted the minister. In addition to the weapons scanners, the government has funded 126 institutional safety officer positions at HSC and in facilities across the province, with 96 trained and working.
