SECURITY ISSUES

The security of PSA members is of paramount importance. There are inherent risks for members working within Human Service areas. If you consider there is a risk to you, then security measures should be put in place. Doctors in private practice, visiting homes, now are often accompanied by security guards. Members must consider the risks of going to private homes alone. And the risks of being alone in the office. Eg. A clerical officer alone in a Police Station may consider they should lock the doors. There are risks associated working night shifts in isolation. Members drive cars alone in isolated areas often not within mobile phone range.

Members accompany patients or clients to various stressful situations, eg Guardianship Board or to court, where members may be placed in an invidious situation. Members have to write reports for courts, boards and tribunals which the subjects, their parents or other family members may disagree with and find threatening and then members may have to deal with angry, aggressive people.

Members may work in areas where there is inadequate or no security barriers. Members may find they have to face angry people when they realise they cannot have the service they require immediately. Members also have to deal with confused, upset, threatened, disturbed or mentally ill people.

Members should consider safety and security issues, raise them with your OHS & W Representatives and discuss them with their PSA Industrial Officer. Appropriate action can then be determined.

ACT BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE!

Ensure security measures are implemented immediately. Not after an incident. If Management won't act, don't undertake those duties until Management can guarantee your safety.

Should you require any further clarification on this matter, please do not hesitate to contact Industrial Officer Andy Alcock on 8205 3259 or Email: aa@cpsu.asn.au.

THE PSA - INSISTING ON A SAFE WORKING ENVIRONMENT