New Security System at Medical Center
In compliance with Assembly Bill (AB) 2975 Hospital Weapon Detection Policy and Screening, the California Department of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) has mandated hospitals to adopt a weapon detection screening process by March 1, 2027. To provide a safer environment for everyone at our medical center, a new designated entrance and weapon-detection screening process has been implemented for all patients, visitors, staff, and physicians.
Everyone entering through the medical center main lobby is required to use the designated entrance and pass through the weapon-detection system. To help ensure a smooth arrival, please allow a few extra minutes for screening.
This enhancement is part of our ongoing commitment to workplace safety and patient care. If you have any questions, please email generalsecurity@SalinasValleyHealth.com. Thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Salinas Valley Health implement this weapons screening?
A: The well-being of everyone at the Salinas Valley Health Medical Center
has always been
our top priority. The use of this system added another layer to our comprehensive security
program designed to protect the safety of everyone who enters our facility.
Q: Who is required to go through the weapons screening?
A: Anyone entering our Main Lobby or Emergency Department is required to
pass through the detection system. This includes patients, visitors, physicians,
staff and volunteers. Anyone previously screened who leaves the facility
must be rescreened before reentering.
Q: How will the screening work?
A: Screenings take place at the Main Lobby entrance to the medical center and the
Emergency Department entrance with security personnel monitoring the process.
Individuals enter between two panels of the Evolv Express System as shown above.
Q: I use a wheelchair. Will I still be required to go through the weapons
detection system?
A: Individuals who may have difficulty moving through the detection system,
such as those in wheelchairs, are screened with a handheld device.
Q: What if someone entering has a medical emergency?
A: Contingency plans are in place to accommodate patients with emergencies
and special circumstances, including those who arrive on gurneys, stretchers
or with other medical equipment.
Q: Does the detection system impact implanted devices such as a pacemaker
or defibrillator?
A: The system is considered safe with low- to no-risk for individuals with
medically implanted devices. If an individual is not comfortable entering
through the system, they may request an alternative screening.
Q: Will the detection system impact pregnant women?
A: The system is considered safe for the general public, which, by definition,
includes those who are pregnant and their unborn children, as well as
detection system operators.
If an individual is not comfortable entering through the system, they may
request an
alternative screening.
Q: What is considered a “weapon” and prohibited at the medical center?
A: Items considered weapons and not allowed at the medical center include,
but are not
limited to, firearms and any type or style of knife or other sharp-edged weapon.
Q: What happens if I accidentally bring a prohibited item with me to the
medical center?
A: If a prohibited item is accidentally brought onto medical center property
by an individual, they will be given an opportunity to leave the property
with a security escort. If the situation warrants, our security officers
can take possession of the item for duration of their visit, at which
time they will be escorted from the property prior to returning the item.
If the individual with the prohibited item does not cooperate, they will
be immediately escorted from medical center property, and law enforcement
may be notified in accordance with policy.
Q: Who can I contact at Salinas Valley Health with questions or feedback?
A: Patients and visitors may call our main line at
831-757-4333 and request to speak with
our Security Department or Patient Experience with questions and/or feedback.
Alternatively, they may send an email to
Questions@SalinasValleyHealth.com.
Q: Where can I learn more about the Evolv Express System being used for weapon
screening?
A: For additional details about the Evolv Express System, click
here.
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