New weapons screening system coming to two Halifax-area hospitals this weekend

An AI-powered weapons detection system first launched as a pilot project at the Colchester East Hants Health Centre ER in Truro, N.S. (Source: Nova Scotia Health)

Visitors and patients will have to walk through a new AI-powered weapons screening system at two Halifax-area hospitals starting this Saturday.

Nova Scotia Health says the new technology will be in place at the main entrances and emergency entrances of the QEII Halifax Infirmary site and Dartmouth General Hospital.

“These measures are being introduced to enhance safety and security for all patients, visitors and hospital staff,” said Nova Scotia Health in a news release Wednesday.

“Any item classified as a weapon, resembles a weapon or is reasonably deemed capable of being used as a weapon, will not be allowed inside.”

Nova Scotia Health says prohibited items will be confiscated and may be turned over to police.

Security staff will be on hand to answer any questions or concerns about the new screening process.

Nova Scotia Health says the AI technology won’t adversely affecting anyone with a medical device.

At the QEII, visitors will no longer be permitted to enter the Halifax Infirmary via the pedway from the Abbie J Lane or Veterans Memorial buildings.

Nova Scotia Health is offering the following tips for a smooth screening process:

• arrive 10-to-15 minutes earlier than is typically recommended for appointments
• avoid bringing non-essential items, especially large bags or backpacks
• have belongings ready to be checked

Nova Scotia Health said last week it would continue installing AI-powered weapons detection systems at emergency departments across the province after a successful pilot project at the Colchester East Hants Health Centre in Truro, N.S.

The health authority said more than 7,400 people were screened during the two-week pilot project, with 49 “potentially dangerous items” intercepted during that time, and more people returning items to their vehicles before entering the hospital.

It noted the technology helped reduce the number of secondary searches by about 25 per cent, compared to conventional screening methods like metal detectors, while improving screening times. It also said the system can distinguish between “everyday personal items and actual weapons,” which helps streamline entry and minimize delays.

The AI-powered units will be installed at 12 more sites, including the Halifax Infirmary and Dartmouth General Hospital, across Nova Scotia over the next six months.

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