Restricted Access to SPH Emergency Department
As of June 12, 2023, the St. Paul’s Hospital Emergency Department (ED) is restricting access to the department as part of the approved safety plan for the ED. Starting June 12, you will notice the following changes:
- The Comox Street gate and the exterior door will be swipe card access. Emergency Department staff, ED medical staff and other related services (e.g., security) will be able to access the ED through the Comox Street entrance.
- The double doors leading from the Burrard lobby into the Comox hallway will be closed. Greeters will be on hand to direct patients and staff. Hospital staff who need to access the ED to see patients will be able to enter by the Burrard double doors.
- New signage will be installed on Burrard Street to highlight the patient pick up and drop off area.
We know the Comox Street entrance is often used by staff to access the Burrard upper floors. As an alternative, a new staff entrance has been created close to the Comox Street entrance. Details regarding this new entrance are found on the FAQ page.
A reminder that exiting by the Comox Street doors is also restricted, and staff are encouraged to take the Burrard elevators down to the basement level to exit the Burrard Building.
Restricting access to the ED is one part of the approved department’s Safety Action Plan. This plan is designed to reduce incidents of violence and aggression in the department. You can read more about this project in PHC News or visit our FAQ page