The University of Utah Department of Public Safety’s Health Security team plays a vital role in maintaining safety at the University of Utah Hospital. In a recent interview, Dustin Banks, Associate Executive Director of Facilities Management, and Glenn Smith, Director of Health Security, shared insights into the unique challenges and approaches to healthcare security on campus.

Key highlights from the interview underscore the complexity of the security team’s environment, managing a diverse population of 45,000 students, 26,000 staff members, and thousands of patients, each with unique needs. The team attributes their success to specialized training, with officers undergoing seven weeks of intensive preparation focused on customer service and de-escalation skills. A collaborative approach is central to their strategy, with security personnel working closely alongside medical staff as part of the clinical care team.

The team emphasizes non-violent, empathetic de-escalation tactics, recognizing the stress and fear often experienced by patients and families. Notably, over the past seven years, significant strides have been made in building trust and fostering collaboration between security personnel and hospital staff, further enhancing the overall safety and efficiency of the healthcare environment.

The Health Security team’s dedication to providing a safe environment while maintaining compassionate care exemplifies the University of Utah’s commitment to excellence in healthcare and campus safety.