2 LI Hospitals To Install Weapons & Contraband Detectors At Entrances

LONG ISLAND, NY – Northwell Health has officially implemented new metal and contraband detectors at its Long Island hospitals.

Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New Hyde Park and South Shore University Hospital in Bay Shore, as well as Lenox Health Greenwich Village in Manhattan, now have the screeners at its entrances, according to a press release.

The technology, created by company Evolv Express, is a "seamless" walk-through system which will identify weapons and unauthorized drugs.

It is a "touchless experience" that is monitored by Northwell’s security team. It is designed to avoid bottle necking and slow lines associated with older detection screening processes and technologies, the release said.

“The safety, security and well-being of our patients, visitors and team members are our top priorities,” said Michael Dowling, Northwell’s president and CEO. “To help ensure a safe environment for all who enter our facilities – and as part of Northwell’s broader safety and security efforts – we’re trying this next generation of screening devices.”

The high-tech technology, which will also be installed at other facilities in the health system, are part of a larger Northwell initiative to maintain the safety of employees, patients and visitors, the release said. The effort also includes more resources and trainings for team members to enhance workplace safety, said Scott Strauss, vice president of security and support systems.

"The installation of this new detection system is just the latest addition to a wide range of security protocols the health system has in place to protect those in our hospitals, minimize the risk of violence and maintain a safe working environment for our team members," said Strauss.

Northwell has hosted hundreds of trainings over the last few years, a press release said. For example, they have conducted active-shooter drills, seminars on conflict de-escalation techniques and courses on how to respond to bleeding emergencies so that team members are better prepared in case of a crisis.

"This technology adds just another layer of safety – and improves confidence for everyone who enters these healing spaces," said Strauss.