On September 27, 2024, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law legislation that will enhance current healthcare safety regulations by requiring hospitals to implement weapons detection screening and personnel education and training policies in 2027.
Quick Hits
- Governor Newsom recently signed into law legislation directing the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board, by March 1, 2027, to amend existing standards to require hospitals to implement weapons detection screening policies.
- The standards will also require hospitals to implement policies addressing personnel education and training, alternative search and screening protocols, response protocols for detected weapons, and public notification.
Newly enacted Assembly Bill (AB) No. 2975 requires the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board to develop standards including several critical requirements aimed at bolstering security in hospitals.
Weapons Detection Screening Policies
By March 1, 2027, the Cal/OSHA Standards Board must amend existing standards to include a requirement that hospitals implement weapons detection screening policies. These policies will mandate the use of weapons detection devices that automatically screen individuals at specific hospital entrances.
Personnel Education and Training
Hospitals must assign “appropriate personnel, other than a health care provider,” who meet specified training standards to manage the weapons detection process.
Alternative Search and Screening Protocols
Hospitals must have “reasonable protocols for alternative search and screening for patients, family, or visitors who refuse to undergo weapons detection device screening.”
Response Protocols for Detected Weapons
Hospitals will be required to “adopt reasonable protocols” for responding when a dangerous weapon is detected. These protocols must be clearly defined and actionable.
Public Notification
Hospitals will be required to post notices in conspicuous locations near “public entrances where weapons detection devices are utilized.” These notices must inform the public that a specific hospital “conducts screenings for weapons upon entry but that no person shall be refused medical care,” in accordance with federal law.
Next Steps
Now that AB 2975 has been signed into law, California’s healthcare employers can participate in the rulemaking process at the Cal/OSHA Standards Board.
