BY IAN CROUCH
The Health Services Union is welcoming a statewide review of hospital security following a rise in violent incidents against staff at hospitals over the past 10 years, including here the Hunter.
The review by former Police Minister, Peter Anderson recommends a number of measures including a trial of capsicum foam and other defensive tools to help de-escalate threatening situations, wearing of duress alarms in Emergency Departments and improved access to mental health assessments.
The review made 107 recommendations including investing in permanent rather than contract security staff and enhancing security in emergency departments at some rural and regional hospitals.
It comes after a security guard was attacked by a patient with a pair of scissors at the Calvary Mater Hospital in May 2019, leaving him with cuts to his face and back.
HSU NSW Secretary Gerard Hayes said he hoped the review would provide ED staff with more defensive tools and lead to the employment of extra permanent security officers in the state's hospitals.
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| Former Police Minister Peter Anderson |
