Blog

Surveillance cameras key to overall security program

Surveillance systems can enhance access control, reduce theft and provide another opportunity to protect individuals, information and the hospital campus

By Ken Bukowski/ Special to Healthcare Facilities Today


Healthcare security programs are complex and require multiple solutions. The best security programs carefully integrate a variety of solutions to ensure that the program meets client, staff, patient and visitor needs. 

Surveillance systems are viewed as a healthcare security best practice. Surveillance systems can enhance access control, reduce theft and provide another opportunity to protect individuals, information and the hospital campus from harm. To be effective, a surveillance system should be integrated into a comprehensive security program and monitored and managed by well-trained security officers. Surveillance systems aid healthcare security staff in preventing crime and managing security incidents, but they cannot react when a dangerous event is taking place.

Hospitals, by their nature, are designed to be open and accessible to the public, except for restricted areas which need around the clock monitoring. A surveillance system can include real-time motion detection analytics that can trigger an alarm in the security center when an unauthorized individual or vehicle enters a protected area. The security officers operating the camera system can dispatch patrol officers to that specific area and provide back-up or details to police.

Cameras can also assist in protecting hospital staff during stressful situations. When conflicts arise, security officers can immediately be alerted and can provide assistance. Additionally, video footage provides an accurate record of events that can be shared with police or presented as evidence in legal proceedings.

Surveillance systems are also useful outside of the facility, looking over campus grounds. While security officers can patrol the campus, they cannot be in every area constantly. By strategically positioning security cameras, the surveillance team will have a virtual tour of the whole campus and can more efficiently monitor the area for dangerous situations.

Surveillance systems have evolved significantly in recent years. Your security provider can recommend the latest technology and help ensure monitoring provides an added layer of protection for your hospital campus.

Bukowski is the vice president of healthcare, AlliedBarton Security Services.

 



September 16, 2015


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

How Backup Power Needs Vary Across Healthcare Settings

Manufacturers discuss how evolving codes, technologies and care settings shape healthcare backup power strategies.


Flexible Design Strategies Help OhioHealth Maximize Clinical Space

Doing more with less was key to the renovated facility’s design.


New Bass Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Diseases Opens

The new space not only offers more exam rooms but also features 15 private infusion bays to allow privacy for all patients and their caregivers during treatment.


Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Daytona Beach Opens

Hospital amenities include all private patient rooms, a spacious therapy gym featuring advanced rehabilitation technologies, an activities of daily living suite and more.


What Healthcare Facilities Can Learn from a $49 Million Window Failure

A major window system failure at the University of Iowa’s Children’s Hospital sparked a costly replacement project – and a $49.4 million arbitration win.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.