New AI system will screen people entering ER at Truro hospital

An A.I. weapons-detection system is being tested as a security pilot project in the emergency department entrance at a Truro hospital.

Nova Scotia Health is utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to help with security at a Truro hospital.

The health authority is launching the pilot project at Colchester East Hants Health Centre (CEHHC) on Monday and says it’s aimed at “enhancing safety for patients, visitors and healthcare providers.”

An AI-powered weapons detection system will screen people entering the hospital’s emergency department.

“The system specializes in non-invasive threat detection and uses artificial intelligence to identify potential weapons or dangerous items. If an item is flagged, additional screening or bag searches may occur,” reads a news release from Nova Scotia Health.

The pilot project is set to run for five days and will be monitored 24/7 by trained Paladin Security staff, according to the health authority.

“Safety is a top priority for everyone in our facilities—whether you’re receiving care, visiting a loved one, or part of our team,” said Dean Stienburg, director of security for Nova Scotia Health.

“This new technology gives us another tool to help create a safer space for all. We are proud to be leading the way.”

Nova Scotia Health says items deemed unsafe will be stored and returned to the owner when they leave the property, while firearms and illegal weapons will be given to police.

If the pilot project at CEHHC is successful, Nova Scotia Health says it hopes to expand the use of the AI-powered weapons detection system to other entrances and sites across the Northern Zone.

The president of the Nova Scotia Nurses’ Union, Janet Hazelton, says she’s pleased the $7 million “Safety Innovation Fund government committed to is being implemented to address this alarming but real threat to staff and others.”

“It’s unfortunate that healthcare dollars must be spent on security, however I believe these measures fiercely remind the public that violence in our healthcare institutions will not be tolerated.”

The new security system is being implemented just a few weeks after a teen allegedly assaulted two security guards at the hospital by throwing bleach on them, striking one in the face.

At the time of the incident, Hazelton said it was further proof that violence in the health-care system “is completely out of control.”

Nova Scotia Health and Wellness Minister Michelle Thompson told CTV News feeling and being safe at work “is paramount.”

“The safety and wellbeing of everyone working in our healthcare facilities is important to us all, and those working and seeking treatment in our hospitals and healthcare facilities deserve to be able to do so without fear of threat or violence.”

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