Each year, Campus Safety conducts surveys on safety and security technologies commonly found on K-12, universities, and healthcare campuses. The data extracted from these surveys offers insights into how campuses are using these technologies and the challenges and successes they encounter along the way.
With the recent rise in mass shootings in America, many schools, institutions of higher education, and healthcare facilities have adopted various types of technologies to screen for guns, knives, bombs, and other objects that could be used as weapons.
Results from our 2024 Weapons, Metal, and Gunshot Detection Survey, released in June, show the most popular type of weapons detection system used by survey participants is weapons/metal detection via walk-through or hand-held detectors (63%). An additional 11% said their organizations own, borrow, or rent a gunshot detection system.
While this data has proven extremely useful for gauging the adoption of these technologies, campus safety and security experts are often looking to the future, working diligently to continuously find ways to further mitigate violent incidents. That’s why we asked a variety of experts — both practitioners and security solutions providers — to give their educated predictions for how weapons and gunshot detection in education and healthcare will evolve in 2025.
Here’s what they had to say.
Weapons Detection Predictions from Safety/Security Practitioners
Anthony Pluretti, Associate Vice President, Student & Campus Services, Widener University, 2022 Campus Safety Director of the Year Winner:
“My prediction for the next couple of years is that you will see a huge influx of two technologies that are already gaining traction in the below markets. NFC wallet credentials, and concealed weapon detection systems. There are hundreds of K-12, higher ed, and healthcare systems utilizing technology such as the Evolv concealed weapons detection systems to screen students and the public when entering their facilities. As this technology continues to gain traction, it may become as common as cameras and card readers for schools and hospitals.
NFC / mobile wallet credentials are still in their infancy but quickly spreading through the market. As they become easier and more cost effective to adopt, it will cause a precipitous shift in the market to deploy these to enhance both the student and faculty experience. Magnetic and proximity cards are flawed in their security efficacy. As multi-factor authentication options such as mobile credentials and facial authentication readers stabilize in the market, they will become the new base standard for access control.”
Mark Reed, MBA, CHPA, Director of Campus Support Operations for City of Hope:
“AI-driven weapons detection systems are expected to become more common in healthcare settings, especially at main entry points and high-traffic areas. The State of California has recently passed legislation mandating weapons detection use at main entrances, emergency room entrances, and separate labor and delivery entrances. Healthcare facilities are likely to integrate weapons detection capabilities with existing video surveillance systems to create a comprehensive security network. This combination enables security teams to monitor and manage potential threats across various areas in real-time, making response coordination easier and more effective. Predictive analytics using data from weapons detection systems may help identify high-risk times or locations within a healthcare facility. By analyzing patterns in threat alerts, facilities can develop preemptive security measures, schedule additional personnel, or improve protocols at identified risk points.”
Ian Lopez, Director of Security, Cherry Creek School District, 2024 Campus Safety Director of the Year Finalist:
“School districts will continue to weigh the benefit of weapons detection systems since many require additional support and manpower that schools often don’t have. Many schools still operate on open campus models with multiple entry points and don’t have the budgets or staff to support screening capabilities.
Video detection systems must also be vetted to determine if the systems can perform as advertised and provide the necessary warnings needed to safeguard schools against real threats and false alarms.”
Dr. Aaron Skrbin, Director of Safety and Security, Allegheny Intermediate Unit, 2024 Campus Safety Director of the Year Finalist:
“The use of AI continues unabated throughout all aspects of society. As this technology continues to permeate K-12 schools, the continued evolution of AI gun detection will continue. With each incident of school violence, officials continue to seek out ‘the better mousetrap’ to add to their array of safety and security tools. AI gun detection technology is one of the newer tools that the industry touts as having great benefit to schools, particularly in cases where camera systems are not actively monitored.
As these systems evolve, they grow more sophisticated. In this way, schools may see more utility in the product in that it will identify not only guns, but potentially other weapons or hazards such as knives, vapes, etc. More schools may then move to adopt the products once they demonstrate greater day-to-day usage as opposed to a sole focus on weapons detection. The software also then eases the burden of school staff, many of whom may be tasked with searching students’ bags. Many school staff are untrained and uncomfortable with this process for a variety of reasons. In some cases, collective bargaining agreements prohibit school staff from participating in daily screening searches. In this way, AI weapons detection systems provide an additional layer of security over other systems.
What remains clear however, is that no technology replaces the human element. While it is important to research, understand and invest in appropriate and proven security technology, the value of the technology is ultimately defined by the person on the receiving end of the information. Are those with access to the platform(s) capable of appropriately analyzing, interpreting and responding to the information that they receive? More importantly, above any physical tool, does your safety and security plan prioritize relationships above everything else. It is easy to get lost in the weeds of the ‘stuff’ but education is and always will be a human centered endeavor. We, as school safety professionals, must never lose site of the importance of making sure that students feel connected to their schools and have at least one appropriate and meaningful relationship with a trusted adult. No AI platform can ever replace the value of these relationships.”
Weapons Detection Predictions from Security Consultants
Mike Gips, Principal, Global Insights in Professional Security:
“As both a security practitioner and an attorney, I’ve been observing and documenting the evolving role of weapons-detection systems (WDSs) as part of a holistic security program that withstands legal claims alleging premises liability or negligent security. WDSs are increasingly becoming part of the standard of care in facilities such as medical centers, schools, and college campuses. As more and more sites opt for such systems, the expectation grows for similar or neighboring facilities to adopt these solutions. Moreover, it’s likely that the heightened capabilities of WDSs will also inform the evolving standard of care. WDSs are far more than metal detectors, incorporating elements such as visual cameras, thermal cameras, LiDAR, artificial intelligence, and other technologies. Outdated tools might not meet new standards of care, as determined by the courts.
State legislation is also driving the increase in standard of care. At the beginning of 2024, Maryland began requiring the use of WDSs in hospitals, and medical institutions in California will have to follow suit by 2027. Other states will watch carefully to determine whether they should do likewise. But it won’t be surprising if a Maryland-based health institution decides to install WDSs in facilities located in other states as part of sound practice or in expectation of future legislation. In other words, the effect of these statutes may spread well beyond the states that enacted them.
It’s essential to note, though, that even institutions that deploy WDSs with the latest bells and whistles aren’t automatically insulated from liability. Systems must be appropriately set up, tested, situated, maintained, calibrated, and staffed. A top-of-the-line WDS is a lot less valuable when an attendant lets certain people skirt screening or when there is not a well-thought-out process for what occurs when weapons are identified. While WDSs are only one (typically optional) element of a campus security program, organizations will be expected to assess these solutions, determine whether and where they are needed, and, if used, deploy them appropriately and effectively.”
Paul Sarnese, Owner, Secured & Prepared Consulting, Past IAHSS President, 2022 Campus Safety Director of the Year Winner:
“Weapon Detection Systems will improve due to the use of artificial intelligence algorithms by continuing to learn to identify new threats. Systems will improve in their ability to detect stainless steel and ceramic items. The data that will be generated from the weapon detection system will become more granular and provide valuable insights into the threat environment and how best to deploy security resources.
California is implementing AB 2795 which requires hospitals to implement a weapons detection screening policy by the year 2027. The statute will require the use of weapons detection devices that automatically screen a person’s body at specific entrances of the hospital, hospitals to assign appropriate personnel who meet specified training standards, hospitals to have reasonable protocols for alternative search and screening for patients, family, or visitors who refuse to undergo weapons detection device screening, and for hospitals to adopt reasonable protocols addressing how the hospital will respond if a dangerous weapon is detected. For hospitals that have not already deployed a weapon detection system, they will continue to evaluate solutions that will meet their organization’s culture and environment. Many hospitals will have to renovate their existing spaces to accommodate the weapon detection system implementation. Facilities will have to consider utilizing the Facility Guideline Institute and the International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety Industry and Design Guidelines.
Unfortunately, with the continued increase in violence in healthcare and assaults against healthcare workers, I believe we will see additional states follow California’s lead and impose similar provisions requiring weapon detection systems in healthcare facilities. I look forward to helping my clients to evaluate the available solutions and to deploy the weapon detection solution that best meets their organizational culture and operational needs.”
Weapons Detection Predictions from Solutions Providers
Simon Goodyear, CEO, Metrasens:
“In 2025, school safety strategies will center on a balanced approach that combines advanced technology with critical human oversight. With over 300 school shooting incidents reported in the U.S. in 2024 (according to the K-12 School Shooting Database), the urgency for effective, sustainable safety protocols has never been greater.
While artificial intelligence can play a role in monitoring, it is not a standalone solution. Advanced detection technologies, such as magnetic detection systems, will be pivotal for identifying potential threats while maintaining efficient entry processes. These technologies enhance security without replacing the indispensable human element—staff, administrators, and community members—who provide the essential oversight needed to ensure a safe environment.
School safety advocates like Ryan Petty, board member of Stand with Parkland and co-founder of The WalkUp Foundation, emphasize the importance of layered security strategies, especially during after-school events, where risks are often heightened. The People-Process-Technology framework highlights how tools can support, rather than replace, human vigilance in these critical situations.
Another pressing challenge is balancing budgets with sustainable safety investments. Federal and state grants provide initial funding, but long-term planning is essential to maintain these systems as grant funding diminishes. Districts must weigh the cost-effectiveness of technologies to ensure affordability over time. For instance, there are solutions that come with steep price tags and require ongoing financial commitments through subscription-based models. For schools prioritizing long-term security, these costly investments can pose significant economic challenges. Investing in adaptable, cost-effective technologies, paired with grant opportunities and scalable planning, will help schools sustain safety measures for the long haul.
In 2025, achieving safer learning environments will require districts to think beyond the immediate. A thoughtful combination of innovative technology and committed personnel will ensure schools stay secure while navigating evolving challenges.”
Mike Lahiff, CEO, ZeroEyes:
“I believe that in 2025 we will see even more school districts, public spaces and businesses adopting AI-based security solutions. Reliance on computer vision is rapidly growing, thanks to a mix of new product innovations, rising demand from different industries, and breakthroughs in technology.
As the problem of gun-related violence continues in this country, thoughts and prayers just aren’t enough. There is no ‘one size fits all’ solution, but a layered security program that includes perimeter security, access control, intrusion detection, and other advanced technologies is proving to be the most effective approach. We are seeing schools, hospitals, houses of worship, commercial businesses, public transit and other organizations increasingly investing in proactive AI-based solutions, and I expect this to continue into next year and beyond. I also think we will be seeing more state legislatures granting funds so schools in particular can invest in AI technology.
People are realizing that AI has a valid role to play in preventing violence. Our Research Center has found that the vast majority of shootings occur outside buildings as the result of an escalated dispute. AI has the ability to detect and warn others the second that a weapon is illegally brandished, so that action can be taken before the first shots are fired.
School districts will continue to weigh the benefit of weapons detection systems since many require additional support and manpower that schools often don’t have. Many schools still operate on open campus models with multiple entry points and don’t have the budgets or staff to support screening capabilities. Video detection systems must also be vetted to determine if the systems can perform as advertised and provide the necessary warnings needed to safeguard schools against real threats and false alarms.”
Craig Oberschlake, Business Development Manager – Education, Bosch Security and Safety Systems:
“In 2025, schools and universities will begin to combine camera-based visual gun detection with cloud-based AI verification to further improve the accuracy of detections and minimize false positives. Cloud-based AI alarm verification can add a second pair of eyes to verify questionable alerts, operating like instant replay technology in sporting events. The camera’s edge-based AI makes the call on the field and sends a short clip of that detection to the cloud for a replay review, where the cloud-based AI acts like a referee to confirm potential threats or overturn the call. Alarms by the edge-based technology are rescinded or escalated quickly via the cloud.
We will also see continued development in this field to help schools and universities identify the presence of brandished guns further away from entrance points. Longer range visual gun detection can help give school personnel more time to react to an event in which every second counts.”
Peter Evans, CEO, Xtract One Technologies:
“Weapons screening is getting a radical upgrade through Artificial Intelligence that’s transforming threat detection from a passive checkpoint into an intelligent, proactive defense mechanism.
At Xtract One, our experts believe AI-powered systems will decode threat landscapes with incredible precision. New and upcoming technologies analyze complex behavioral patterns, material compositions, and risk indicators in microseconds – creating a holistic threat assessment more sophisticated than any human security team could manually construct.
The breakthrough is in contextual screening, that is to say screening that doesn’t just look at one data point. Next-generation systems will integrate multiple data streams – movement patterns, physiological signals, and historical behavioral data – creating threat assessments of unprecedented sophistication.
Machine learning algorithms will continuously refine detection models, ingesting global incident data. Weapons detection becomes an anticipatory science, identifying potential risks before traditional methods would even register a concern.
Privacy remains core to these advances. Intelligent systems will increase safety while reducing invasive screening. Individuals will navigate spaces more freely, with advanced technology operating invisibly. We can walk into diverse environments without the need to divest items, endure pat downs, or even separate ourselves from our personal belongings like bags and purses that include laptops, phones, and other daily essentials.
In 2025, we’re going to see more than incremental improvements to some of these technologies. However, buyers must exercise caution. The market has already been flooded with technologies making bold claims that prioritize speed at the cost of accuracy. Some solutions will sacrifice critical detection capabilities, potentially creating false senses of security that make spaces more vulnerable. Facilities must demand rigorous testing and proven performance metrics before implementing any new weapons detection system.
We’re witnessing a fundamental reconstruction of security technology – where artificial intelligence doesn’t monitor threats, but fundamentally reinterprets how we understand risk so that we can one day eradicate prohibited and dangerous weapons from our public spaces altogether.”
Steve Novakovich, CEO, Garrett Metal Detectors:
“The earliest known use of a pendulum is a crude first century seismometer invented by Han dynasty scientist, Zhang Heng. In the 19 centuries since that time, observers have learned to anticipate that a pendulum eventually slows and changes direction, retracing a path back to center. Many social phenomena seem to follow the same pattern where an excess continues on for a period before a correction brings that excess to heel, then back to equilibrium.
In 2025, I expect to see the excesses of security equipment marketing reach their maximum displacement from reality and begin to retrace a path back to more truthful claims and more reasonable expectations. Specifically, I’d look for movements like these to occur:
More school districts begin to insist on side-by-side demonstrations using real-world threat items. While it’s amazing that so many school district security screening equipment purchases have been made in the past five years without rigorous testing, the easy acceptance of “security theater” cannot continue much longer as real-world evidence is beginning to pile up.
As truth reasserts itself in the market for security screening technology, some subscription contracts and lease agreements will be declared “voidable” by the courts. Our legal system does not enforce contracts that were based on fraud or misrepresentation (known as “fraud in the inducement”). This protection will provide a backstop for school districts who were misled and now find themselves dealing with the unfortunate combination of very large costs and weak security.
“Best value” for security screening comes back into the decision-making process as current marketing fictions become less loudly asserted and less often believed. The school security market is on the cusp of a newfound understanding that effective security can never be “frictionless” regardless of the buzz words being applied in the pitch. Once that truth is internalized, the full range of detection technologies will be back in competition. Let the unfettered cost/benefit analysis exercises begin!
2025 will be a year where the security screening industry starts to undergo a cleansing process. That should be very good for the school security professionals who advise district decision makers and, subsequently, very good for the students for whom day-to-day safety is impacted by false marketing claims.”
