NSW Hospitals Launch Collaborative Action group to Tackle Rising Staff Violence & Safety Risks
New South Wales (NSW) hospitals are taking a proactive step towards safeguarding their workforce with the launch of the Hospital Industry action Group. This collaborative initiative brings together NSW Health, private hospitals, SafeWork NSW, and key unions to address escalating safety concerns, notably the alarming rise in violence and aggression directed towards hospital staff.
A Critical Issue: Violence in Healthcare
Healthcare is a demanding profession, and increasingly, a dangerous one. NSW hospitals are facing a significant challenge: a disproportionately high rate of workplace violence compared to other high-risk industries. Recent data from the Australian Workers’ union (AWU) and HeadFirst reveals that 40% of health and community services workers in NSW have experienced violent or traumatic events on the job. This starkly contrasts with industries like construction and mining (15% each) and manufacturing (8%).
With over 60,000 workers in the healthcare and social assistance sector – the state’s largest and fastest-growing – the need for immediate and sustained action is clear.
What Will the Action Group Do?
The Hospital Industry Action Group will leverage data, intelligence, and the collective expertise of its members to prevent work-related violence and improve overall staff safety. The group’s focus extends beyond violence to encompass a range of critical safety issues, including:
* Patient Handling: Reducing injuries related to lifting and moving patients.
* Slips, Trips, and Falls: Implementing preventative measures to minimize these common incidents.
* Psychosocial Hazards: Addressing the mental and emotional wellbeing of staff,recognizing the impact of stressful work environments.
Building on Existing Initiatives
This new group isn’t starting from scratch.It builds upon the foundation laid by the Action Against Violence in NSW Hospitals Working Group, which previously developed valuable resources like:
* A Violence Toolkit: Providing practical strategies for addressing work-related violence.
* Webinar Series: Offering training on preventing and managing aggression.
Furthermore, NSW Health has already implemented several key safety measures, including:
* Body-Worn Camera Trials: Equipping staff with technology to deter and document incidents.
* Increased Security Personnel: Enhancing security presence across hospital facilities.
* CCTV Implementation: Utilizing surveillance technology for monitoring and evidence gathering.
* Restricted Access Control: Limiting public access to sensitive areas.
* Standardized Security Practices: Ensuring consistent security protocols across all NSW Health facilities.
Empowering Staff: Code Black & Reporting
All NSW public hospital staff have access to assistance mechanisms, including personal and fixed duress alarms. The NSW Government strongly encourages staff to activate the Code Black team response early when faced with a possibly violent situation. Early intervention is crucial to minimizing risk to both staff and patients and preventing escalation.
Your Safety Matters: Reporting Concerns
If you are a healthcare worker with concerns about workplace health and safety, you have options:
* SafeWork NSW: Contact them anonymously at 13 10 50.
* Speak Up Save Lives: Report concerns through the confidential online portal: https://speakup.safework.nsw.gov.au/
Resources for Further Facts:
* SafeWork NSW – Health Care & social Assistance: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/your-industry/health-care-and-social-assistance
* NSW Health: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au
“The launch of this Hospital Industry Action Group is essential to helping protect the hardworking staff in our NSW public hospitals,” stated NSW Minister for Health Ryan park. “This builds on the work the Minns Labor government has already done to help ensure the safety of hospital workers, but there is more to do.”
This collaborative approach signals a firm commitment to creating a safer and more supportive surroundings for the dedicated professionals who provide essential care to the NSW community.
Image credit: iStock.com/sturti
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