HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Huntsville Hospital has unveiled a series of upgraded security measures designed to provide a safer environment for patients, staff, and visitors. Over the past three years, hospital leaders have made significant investments in improving its security infrastructure, incorporating cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technology into daily operations.
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One of the upgrades is the implementation of facial recognition and license plate detection (LPR) software. Security officials can now track individuals entering and exiting the hospital premises more effectively. According to Zach Sledge, Huntsville Hospital’s security technology manager, these systems allow security teams to identify potential safety threats quickly.
“If we have a bad actor at one of our facilities, whether they exhibit traits of workplace violence or have committed thefts, we can just insert their photo into the system,” explained Sledge to WAFF. “Then we will get a notification the moment they come back on our property.”
Cameras, LPR Help Huntsville Hospital Solve Crimes, Identify Medical Emergencies
Huntsville Hospital now operates more than 1,800 AI-powered cameras that enhance monitoring capabilities across its campus. These cameras not only identify individuals but can also detect unusual behaviors. For example, they can send alerts regarding medical emergencies, such as when someone falls, or if someone is loitering or screaming outside the hospital.
LPR technology has also proven to be a valuable asset in identifying and apprehending suspects. Sledge noted that this technology recently assisted authorities in catching two individuals who had been breaking into vehicles on hospital grounds.
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Additionally, the system helped police track down suspects involved in a bank robbery. Following the robbery, the suspects entered hospital property, where security cameras provided authorities with descriptions and vehicle details that proved instrumental in solving the case.
To further bolster security, new kiosks were installed late last month at the main hospital campus, as well as at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital and Madison Hospital.
