Weapons Detection Screening

For safety reasons, some entrances require patients, visitors and staff to pass through a touchless weapons detection system. Find out more.

UCSF Health is committed to providing a safe, welcoming environment for our patients, visitors and staff. To support that commitment, we use a touchless weapons detection system at some entrances to our facilities.

The screening process is designed to be quick, respectful and easy to navigate. Our system also protects your privacy. It does not use facial recognition technology or collect or store personal information.

What to expect

When you arrive, you enter through our screening system. Proceed at your normal pace without stopping.

You may keep most personal items on you, and no physical contact is required. You might be screened more than once, depending on where you enter.

Medical needs and equipment

Our screening system is designed to accommodate all patients and visitors, including people with:

  • Pacemakers or other medical implants
  • Wheelchairs, walkers or other mobility aids
  • Strollers and car seats
  • Pregnancy-related needs

Alternative screening options are available on request. Please let our security staff know how we can help you.

Who is screened?

Screening is required 24 hours a day, seven days a week for everyone using designated entrances, including patients, visitors and staff. If you leave the facility and return, you will be screened again when you come back in.

Prohibited items

Weapons (even if you have a valid permit) and other potentially dangerous items are not allowed in UCSF Health facilities.

These include:

  • Firearms
  • Knives and other sharp objects
  • Ammunition
  • Other items identified as safety risks by our security team

If a system alert is triggered

If our system detects a potential concern, security staff may stop you and use a touch-free handheld screening device or quickly inspect a bag or personal item.

This additional screening is typically brief. Our goal is to help you continue to your destination as soon as possible.

If you bring a prohibited item

We do not confiscate or store items that are not allowed inside. If you arrive with a prohibited item, you will be asked to leave and return without it.