In response to escalating police involvement in what has been called a mental health crisis, the Vancouver Police department recently produced a report which points to a steady increase in mental health related police incidents and proposed an action plan aimed at moving away from a crisis response model to a more community based, stakeholder driven model.
BY DAVID DURNING
In British Columbia workplaces, employers are required to undertake investigations into any accident or incident that:
Over a recent 5 year period, an estimated 183,000 British Columbians were victims of domestic violence. Domestic violence impacts victims and their families and has a serious effect on those who witness it. Health care costs related to domestic violence in Canada are estimated to be in the billions of dollars. Social and emotional costs are significant.
Domestic violence occurs in all cultures and communities and is considered to be a major contributor to increased absenteeism, sick leave and lost productivity at work.
Stewards play a vital role in the union. Particularly important is the steward's role in contract interpretation, organizing and the grievance procedure. In recognition of the need for educating new stewards in these areas, HSA is offering four 3-day Basic Steward Training workshops at the HSA office as follows -
Dates: January 13 – 15, 2014
February 3 – 5, 2014
February 24 – 26, 2014
March 10 – 12, 2014
Location: HSA Office, 300 – 5118 Joyce Street, Vancouver
A new Enhanced Disability Management Program (EDMP) negotiated into the Health Science Professionals Bargaining Association and Nurses' Bargaining Association contracts in the last round of bargaining comes into effect today.
The program replaces disability management programs previously run by individual health authorities.
Jointly developed with employers and other unions over several year, EDMP is an employee-centred, proactive, and customized disability management program for employees with occupational and non-occupational illnesses and injuries.
BY DAVID DURNING
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY OFFICER
WorkSafeBC has ruled that posters and hard copies of first aid information must be properly posted and readily available to workers throughout FHA work locations.
BACKGROUND
November 1 is the day new workplace rules regarding harassment and bullying come into effect in British Columbia.
This is the second part of a change in workers' compensation legislation brought about with the introduction of Bill 14 in 2011.
The first change dealt with the issue of compensation for mental disorders. Since July 1, 2012, an expanded definition states that a worker is entitled to compensation where a mental disorder is a reaction to:
In celebrating Nursing Week, HSA President Reid Johnson thanks Registered Psychiatric Nurses across the province for their expertise and dedication. "The theme of this year's Nursing Week is 'a leading force for change,' and BC's psych nurses are lighting the way," Johnson said.
"With their specialized intensive training, Registered Psychiatric Nurses have long been recognized as the caregivers of choice in mental health," he said.
