Weapons Detection Screening
The safety and security of our community members are a priority at VCU and VCU School of Dentistry. Everyone entering the School of Dentistry building must pass through a weapons detection screening station. This security measure is non-invasive, fast moving and similar to what people experience when attending events at entertainment venues and other public facilities.
For more information about weapons screening at VCU School of Dentistry see the FAQ below. Click here to view FAQ about weapons screening at all VCU Health Sciences facilities.
Frequently asked questions
Where will the screening devices be located in the buildings?
VCU School of Dentistry
- Main entrance (Lyons Building - 12th Street)
- Valet entrance (for employees and students only)
Is this system safe?
Yes, the units are safe. OPENGATE is the equipment manufacturer. The electromagnetic field emitted is less than a hairdryer.
Who will operate the screening stations?
Sentry Force Security staff the screening stations. VCU Police will be called if needed.
What is considered a weapon?
Any item that could potentially be used as a weapon. Items deemed a safety or security risk may include but are not limited to the following: Firearms, razors, knives, tasers, metal knuckles or any other device or substances that may be used to threaten, menace or injure. Pepper spray continues to be permitted on campus, except in the emergency department.
What happens if non-weapons contraband is discovered during the screening?
Illegal substances will be seized.
Will there be a long wait to pass through the weapon screening station?
There may be a very brief wait upon arrival, though the technology being implemented was chosen because of its capacity to deal with high volumes and minimize bottlenecks and wait times. In addition, equipment was allocated based on traffic volume at each location.
Will I have to remove my bag/purse/backpack/briefcase every time I pass through the screening station?
If there are no prohibited items (or the screening device does not detect possible prohibited items) in your belongings, you will be able to pass through the screening station with your bag/purse/backpack/briefcase still on your person and continue on.
If an alert is triggered at the initial pass-through, you will be asked to remove any bags/purses/backpacks/briefcases to allow the security officer at the station to conduct a manual wanding search, and then you will be asked to pass through the screening station again.
Will any of my belongings need to be placed on a conveyor belt for x-ray imaging?
No, individuals will be able to initially pass through the screening station WITH their belongings on their person. Bags/belongings won’t have to be removed unless the screening device alerts that something was sensed.
Will I need to remove any specific items from my bag/purse/backpack to avoid setting off the alert?
Items that WILL need to be removed and passed to the security officer are as follows: laptops, tablets, iPads, metal drink containers, eyeglass cases, and umbrellas.
Items that will NOT need to be removed are as follows: cell phones, keys, change, wallets, etc.
Will I need to remove any clothing or accessories from my body (e.g., shoes, belts, etc.)?
No, individuals will not be asked to remove any clothing – manual wands will help to facilitate targeted scanning when/if needed. You may talk with the security officer to help pinpoint where sensors might be picking something up.
Will items be confiscated? How will I get my items back?
Weapons and illegal substances that are relinquished to Security staff will not be returned.
What if someone has an implanted medical device or their health care provider recommended they avoid exposure to metal detectors or electromagnetic fields?
Alternative screening methods will be available at all times. The OPENGATE screening devices meet U.S. and international standards regarding human exposure to electromagnetic fields but individuals should follow the specific recommendations of their health care providers or medical device manufacturer regarding metal detectors and screening.
Is the process different for pregnant individuals?
No, the process will be the same.
What about other entries into the buildings/facilities that DON’T have weapon screening?
Badge access restrictions are being heightened for all entrances that do not have weapon screening, such that most alternative entries into the environment will become Emergency Exit ONLY, and should not be used for entry into the facility.
What if my role requires that I have items that could be considered to be weapons? issues?
Items that are typically required for someone’s role are permitted.
What will happen if students or employees are found to have substances or weapons that violate policy or Virginia law?
Screening personnel will notify VCU Police and appropriate Student Affairs and Human Resources protocols will be followed.