Franciscan Alliance’s Franciscan Health Olympia Fields hospital in the US has partnered with Athena Security to implement a weapons detection platform to increase staff and patient protection.

The system is designed to protect from potential threats, addressing the high rates of workplace violence experienced in the healthcare sector.

Franciscan Alliance senior vice-president and chief nursing officer Agnes Therady said: "As a healthcare staff, we know all too well the violence that happens in our place of work.

"We can all give a collective sigh of relief that Athena Security is always on, always looking out to keep us protected while we care for our beloved community."

The Athena Security platform operates continuously, providing a layer of protection that was previously unattainable through security personnel alone.

It also integrates CEIA OPENGATE and other metal detectors with a visitor management system and AI evasion detection software.

This combination regularly identifies a variety of threats.

Athena Security CEO Michael Green said: "Athena Security is very pleased to ensure the safety of patients and staff at Franciscan Health Olympia Fields with the addition of our AI weapons detection platform to support security operations and processes.

"Alerting security staff to firearms, knives, and tasers, as well as non-cooperative visitors, the Athena Security system can allow cell phones and car keys to pass, decreasing the number of people detained for further inspection."

Following the successful implementation at the Olympia Fields campus, Franciscan Alliance is evaluating the potential launch of the Athena Security system at other locations.

Comprehensive risk assessments and the examination of key statistical data will inform deployment strategies for additional campuses to ensure that the Athena system will provide optimal security benefits.