Marc Nuckle, a security guard at Montreal’s Notre-Dame Hospital, has reported the discovery of various weapons on patients and their companions ever since metal detectors were implemented at the entrance to the emergency room.
Nuckle mentioned encountering metal bars, large knives, hatchets, and hammers among the items found. The installation of metal detectors took place on Christmas Eve, with the aim of enhancing safety in the emergency room in response to violent incidents witnessed by the regional health authority and staff.
The decision to install a permanent metal detector was initiated in 2024 following consultations, prompted by a stabbing incident between two patients in 2023. This move was influenced by recommendations from Quebec’s workplace safety board, the CNESST. Isabelle Allaire, associate director of nursing care at the CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l’Île-de-Montréal, mentioned that the security measures were increased due to employees feeling unsafe amid concerns of potential aggressive patients.
Aside from the metal detector, other security improvements have been made at Notre-Dame Hospital over the past year, including the addition of security guards, patient companion identification bracelets, and surveillance cameras.
The enhanced security measures have been implemented at Notre-Dame Hospital in Montreal’s Ville-Marie borough, which has seen several instances of violence in recent years, according to the regional health authority.
Firearms Discovered on Visitors
Approximately 700 patients visit the emergency room at Notre-Dame Hospital on a weekly basis, all of whom are now subject to mandatory screening.
Éric Plante, security and emergency measures coordinator at the CIUSSS, emphasized the necessity of systematic screening for all patients to prevent accidents, as incidents of violence have been on the rise. Plante stated that the objective is to ensure the safety of patients, visitors, and staff within the premises.
The emergency department at the hospital employs around 130 individuals, including healthcare professionals. During screenings, Plante mentioned that firearms or replicas are occasionally discovered, with only legal items being returned while prohibited weapons are confiscated.
Loudwige Joseph, workplace harassment and well-being coordinator for the CSN union federation, explained that measures such as securing garbage bins to walls and using disposable utensils and plates were implemented to prevent their use as weapons. Allaire, from the CIUSSS, clarified that although Notre-Dame Hospital provides care for homeless individuals and those with mental health disorders, there is no direct link between the care provided and the instances of violence witnessed.
Advocacy Group Calls for Increased Community Investment
An advocacy group advocating for the rights of individuals impacted by mental illness argued that more funding should be directed towards services rather than solely focusing on security measures. François Winter, spokesperson for AGIDD
