Michigan Hospital Testing Metal Detectors
The metal detectors are currently being tested in the main lobby, but were previously found to be “very effective” in the emergency department, according to John Bolde, director of safety and security for Munson Healthcare.
- By Jessica Davis
- January 14, 2019
Munson Medical Center in Traverse City, Mich., is testing metal detectors at some of its entrances as part of its security and safety measures.
The metal detectors are currently being tested in the main lobby, but were previously found to be “very effective” in the emergency department, according to John Bolde, director of safety and security for Munson Healthcare. Bolde told the Record-Eagle that the hospital’s security staff and signage encourage people to make security aware of any medical condition that would interfere with going through a metal detector.
Bolde said that Munson keeps an eye on incidents involving weapon violence and other security risks that happen across the U.S. The use of metal detectors isn’t related to any particular event, he said.
“With the environment that we live in … — (and) all the violent situations that we’ve heard about — we felt it’s really important to stay proactive,” Bolde said.
He added that that Munson has a weapons-free policy and hospital facilities have used handheld metal detectors for a long time. The hospital also has a standing policy stating that all bags and belongings are subject to search.
Other security and safety measures Munson uses include an extensive video surveillance system, panic alarms that alert security and law enforcement, limited access to certain areas and highly trained security staff, Bolde said.
About the Author
Jessica Davis is the Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media.