Campus security enhancements
By Jamie Smith, Saint Joseph President
Ensuring that our caregivers, patients and visitors feel safe when they are in and around Saint Joseph Hospital is a top priority. We have a very engaged Workplace Violence Prevention Committee as well as a robust Security Team who continually assess campus security issues and evaluate solutions that best address these challenges.
Colorado continues to lead the nation in motor vehicle thefts, and both Governor Polis and the Colorado Legislature are currently working to address the problem. Additionally, the Denver Police Department has launched an auto theft prevention program called DenverTrack. The program uses GPS systems to track stolen vehicles in real time. Physicians and caregivers can learn more and register here.
In particular, there has been an increase in stolen vehicles at metro-area medical campuses, according to this recent article in The Denver Post. The article notes that Saint Joe’s has seen a decrease in car thefts thanks to significant investments and new safety protocols we have put in place, including:
Adding additional vehicle patrol in parking garages.
Purchasing and distributing 250 steering wheel lock devices to caregivers.
Adding mobile trailer cameras and Security Officers during shift changes in Parking Garages E and B.
Restricting access to the elevators in Parking Garage E to caregivers with badge access only.
Staffing the Welcome Desk in the main hospital lobby with a Security Officer during visiting hours 7 days a week.
Restricting public access through Entrances 2, 3, and 4.
We are also in the process of getting approval to purchase two Knightscope Security Robots to patrol the campus. This technology is designed to disrupt criminal behavior, deter unauthorized visitors, and improve the overall experience of our caregivers, patients and guests. You will be hearing more about this project, including a naming contest, once we get the robots onboard!
The Senior Leadership Team and I are committed to your safety and appreciate your input and suggestions about how we can continually improve your experience here at Saint Joe’s.
Jamie