Weapons detection system installed at University of Alberta Hospital’s emergency department
Posted September 2, 2026 9:35 am.
A weapons detection system, similar to the technology used at concerts and sports venues, has been installed at yet another Edmonton hospital.
The safety measure was introduced at the University of Alberta Hospital’s emergency department.
All arriving patients and visitors will need to pass through the screening system to enter the emergency.
If the system detects an “item of concern” on a person or in their belongings, the hospital’s protective services team will perform a secondary screening.
Alberta Health Services says prohibited items can be secured in a locker, their car, or with a family member not entering the emergency department
“Weapons detection technology can be an effective additional layer of protection, helping prevent weapons and items that could be used as weapons from entering our sites,” said Ryan Cammidge, Alberta Health Services’ director of protective services for the Edmonton corridor.
“This is about creating a safer environment for patients, families and our staff, while maintaining a welcoming and respectful experience for everyone.”
The University of Alberta Hospital is the second Edmonton hospital to introduce a weapons detection system after the Royal Alexandra Hospital did so in May.
AHS says an average of 359 prohibited items are secured at the Royal Alex each month – an increase of roughly 175 per cent prior to the detection system. It also noted a sharp decrease in the number of visitors entering the hospital at night.
“Together, these results demonstrate how enhanced screening and access measures can help create a safer environment for patients, families and healthcare workers,” AHS said in a news release.
