MEDIA RELEASE__OhioHealth is taking a significant step forward in its commitment to protect its patients, associates, and visitors and prevent workplace violence. By the end of 2025, OhioHealth hospitals and emergency departments will have metal detectors at public entrances.

Starting December 16, OhioHealth Hardin Memorial Hospital will begin screening all visitors, associates, and providers at its main and emergency entrances. In addition, the main entrance will be accessible between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

In all, OhioHealth will install metal detectors at 26 care sites. The new scanning technology is part of OhioHealth’s initiative to make all facilities a weapons-free environment. These safety changes come at a time when violence is increasing in the health care industry. According to the US Bureau of Statistics, healthcare workers are five times more likely to experience workplace violence than other industries.

“The safety of our patients, visitors, and associates is of utmost importance to us at OhioHealth,” said Vice President of Security and Protective Services Todd Wickerham. “While we have always prohibited weapons from entering our care sites, this is an active measure to make sure that’s the case.”

The screening process takes only a few moments and does not delay patient care.  By taking this next step, OhioHealth is working to prevent and reduce workplace violence during an increasingly violent time.