New Glasgow, N.S., hospital getting AI-powered weapons detection system

The Aberdeen Hospital in New Glasgow, N.S., is shown in this undated image.

Nova Scotia Health says an AI-powered weapons detection system will soon be going to the Aberdeen Hospital in New Glasgow.

The health authority announced in December it would continue installing the system at emergency departments across the province after a successful pilot project at the Colchester East Hants Health Centre in Truro, N.S.

The new systems have already been installed in Halifax, Dartmouth and Sydney.

The technology will start being used in New Glasgow on Monday. It will be at the main entrance facing East River Road and at the emergency department entrance.

There will be no public access through other doors.

“Any item that is classified as a weapon, resembles a weapon or is reasonably deemed capable of being used as a weapon, will not be allowed inside,” reads a news release from Nova Scotia Health.

“Security will be present to answer any questions or address concerns about navigating the new safety process. AI technology will not adversely affect people with medical devices.”

The health authority has said the AI systems will continue to be installed across the province over the coming months, with emergency departments being given priority.

For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page