Managing healthcare environments in 2024 requires juggling multiple responsibilities – preventing workplace violence while increasing staff retention rates; driving better patient outcomes; preserving your brand reputation – all while keeping the business thriving. It’s a big task, and one that you shouldn’t tackle alone.

To help you navigate these complexities, we consulted with two experts: David Ballard and Rich McElwain, Flock Safety Solutions Consultants. With over 35 years of combined law enforcement experience and expertise in criminal investigations, they offer invaluable insights into creating safer healthcare environments.

This 7-part series presents actionable strategies drawn from their extensive knowledge, designed to enhance security, protect healthcare workers, and improve patient outcomes. In our fifth installment, we cover how you can help protect your staff from violence by implementing a virtual security perimeter.

Discover more security strategies for your healthcare facility in our guide: 7 Security Strategies to Protect Nurses, Doctors & Patients From Violence.

Part 5: Prevent Attacks of Violence Against Your Staff with a Virtual Security Perimeter

According to one source, “Nurses faced the highest number of assaults in psychiatric units and emergency departments. While patients were most likely to attack nurses, attacks were also initiated by family members, co-workers, visitors, and intruders, and most attackers were men.”

In the healthcare industry, ensuring the safety of staff is paramount. One effective strategy to enhance security is by creating a virtual security perimeter. This article explores how healthcare facilities can leverage technology to establish a virtual security perimeter and prevent attacks of violence against their staff.

The Growing Threat of Violence in Healthcare Settings

Healthcare workers, particularly nurses, are at a high risk of experiencing violence in the workplace. According to a report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the healthcare and social service industries experience the highest rates of injuries caused by workplace violence. Nurses in psychiatric units and emergency departments face the highest number of assaults, often initiated by patients, family members, co-workers, visitors, and intruders.

The Concept of a Virtual Security Perimeter

A virtual security perimeter involves creating zones of coverage around the healthcare facility using advanced technology. These zones help in early detection and intervention of potential threats, preventing violent individuals from entering the premises. 

Creating a Virtual Security Perimeter with Flock Safety

Flock Safety offers a comprehensive suite of technological solutions designed to enhance security in healthcare facilities. Our platform integrates LPR, live and recorded video, and audio detection, providing a robust virtual security perimeter.

1. Flock Safety Falcon® License Plate Recognition (LPR) Cameras: LPR technology identifies and tracks vehicles entering and exiting the facility. By flagging vehicles associated with known threats, security personnel can detect and respond to potential threats early.
2. Flock Safety Condor™ Video: AI-powered live and recorded video provides continuous monitoring of the facility's perimeter. These cameras offer real-time video feeds and recorded footage, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
3. Flock Safety Raven® Audio Detection: Audio detection triggers alerts when sounds such as gunshots are detected, enabling security personnel to investigate and respond quickly.

By creating a virtual security perimeter using advanced technology, healthcare facilities can detect and respond to potential threats early, preventing violent individuals from entering the premises. Ultimately, implementing these technologies not only enhances safety but also provides peace of mind for staff, fostering a secure and supportive work environment. 

Read on to part 6: Implement a Proactive Off-Hours Security Plan