As workplace violence has dramatically increased in healthcare settings, Assembly Bill 2975 has been signed into law, mandating that the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (Cal/OSHA) amend existing workplace violence prevention standards for hospitals by March 1, 2027. These amendments include several specific requirements:
- Implementation of weapons detection devices that automatically screen individuals at three key entry points:
- Main public entrance
- Emergency department entrance
- Labor and delivery entrance (if separately accessible)
- Deployment of trained personnel (other than healthcare providers) to monitor and operate the weapons detection systems
- Establishment of response protocols for detected weapons and alternative screening methods for those who refuse standard screening
- Posting of conspicuous notices informing the public about weapons screening while affirming that medical care will not be refused
Importantly, the law specifically prohibits handheld metal detector wands as the sole screening method. Limited exceptions will be made for small and rural hospitals, facilities with space constraints, or those providing extended care for patients with complex needs.
Why Healthcare Facilities Need to Act Now
While the 2027 implementation deadline might seem distant, the reality is that healthcare facilities should begin planning immediately for several compelling reasons:
1. Anticipated Equipment Supply Constraints
With hundreds of hospitals across California required to implement new technologies simultaneously, equipment manufacturers and security vendors will likely face significant backlogs as the deadline approaches. Facilities that wait until the deadline approaches to begin procurement may find themselves unable to source compliant equipment in time.
2. Complex Implementation Requirements
In addition to the purchase of weapons detection equipment, healthcare facilities must:
- Train dedicated personnel (minimum 8 hours) on equipment operation, response protocols, de-escalation techniques, and implicit bias
- Develop extensive screening policies that maintain patient dignity and privacy
- Establish protocols for responding to detected weapons
- Create alternative screening procedures for special circumstances
- Update workplace violence prevention plans
These elements require careful planning, stakeholder input, and adequate time for development and refinement.
3. Budget Planning Considerations
For many healthcare facilities, implementing these requirements will require significant capital expenditure that should be incorporated into upcoming budget cycles rather than addressed as an emergency expense as the deadline approaches.
How Xtract One’s Solutions Meet Healthcare Security Needs
Xtract One offers a suite of security solutions designed to address the specific challenges of different environments, including healthcare facilities. Our advanced detection technologies go beyond traditional security approaches to provide protection that enhances rather than hinders operations.
Tailored Solutions for Different Healthcare Environments
Healthcare facilities come in various sizes and configurations, with different security needs based on patient volume, location, and specific operations. Xtract One offers two primary solutions that can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of different healthcare settings:
Xtract One Gateway is ideal for hospital environments where patients and visitors carry medium volumes of personal belongings like medical devices, medications, electronics, and personal items. Its advanced object identification technology differentiates between everyday items and actual threats to dramatically reduce false alerts while maintaining effective protection.
SmartGateway delivers high-throughput security for environments where individuals typically carry fewer personal items, such as outpatient clinics, specialized treatment centers, or administrative areas. Its portable design and quick assembly make it perfect for facilities that need flexibility in their security deployment or have multiple entrances that require protection at different times.
Security That Enhances the Healing Mission
The intent behind AB 2975 is clear: to protect healthcare workers, patients, and visitors from the tragic impacts of workplace violence. But implementation doesn’t have to come at the expense of the healing environment.
With thoughtful planning and the right technology partner, California healthcare facilities can meet these new requirements while enhancing their core mission of patient care. Xtract One’s approach to security screening supports this balance by providing protection that respects dignity, maintains operational flow, and focuses security resources where they matter most.
Don’t wait until the implementation deadline creates equipment backlogs and rushed deployments. Contact our healthcare security specialists today at sales@xtractone.com to begin your assessment and planning process.