Henry Ford Allegiance Health has announced increased security measures going into effect today on the hospital campus.
Today a metal detector will be installed in the Emergency Department entrance to the patient registration area. The detector will be in operation around the clock. Signs will be posted to direct patients and visitors.
This is the first step of several improvements in HFAH’s safety and security plan. Next steps will include hiring additional security officers and adding a new K-9 officer. The hospital is assessing the current security camera and badge access systems.
Henry Ford Allegiance Health consistently monitors the effectiveness of its security measures. “We want to reduce risks and be ready to respond as needed because safety is our top priority,” said Security Manager Charles Marshall. “Our goal is to ensure a coordinated, effective response and recovery in the event of any safety incident.”
In a press statement, HFAH says it continues to place a high priority on maintaining a safe environment for patients, visitors and staff in each of its facilities. HFAH proactively prepares for a crisis by conducting simulated emergency drills, evaluating security preparedness and making enhancements—from metal detectors to K-9 officers—to improve overall safety.
Every year, HFAH stages full-scale emergency exercises on the hospital campus to focus on potential safety-related incidents, such as an active shooter. Through these simulations, HFAH is able to put its emergency operations plan to the test.
“These exercises help us to identify strengths to capitalize on, along with opportunities to improve going forward. We practice our response to an incident in collaboration with local, regional and state emergency responders, as well as local law enforcement, just as we would in a real-world crisis,” said Emergency Management Coordinator Corey Kubik.
Community partners who have participated in emergency exercises on the hospital campus include Jackson City Police and Fire Departments, Blackman Township Public Safety, Michigan State Police, Jackson Community Ambulance/Emergent Health Partners, Jackson County Sheriff’s Department, Jackson County Emergency Management, Michigan State Police Emergency Management Homeland Security Division, Jackson Health Department, District One Regional Medical Response Coalition (D1RMRC) and Michigan Department of Corrections.
