July 06, 2022
The poll of front-line RPNs, PSWs and other front-line staff revealed a surge in physical & sexual violence against women, in racially motivated attacks and an increase in the use of weapons against hospital staff. The poll found that:
- 63% experienced physical violence;
- 53% report an increase in violence targeting them or a co-worker during the pandemic;
- 71% of racialized workers report they’re subject to harassment or abuse because of their race or appearance;
- 49% of all categories of hospital workers experience sexual harassment and 36% experience sexual assault; and
- 18% report an increase in the use of guns or knives against staff.
The union’s opposed to the provincial government’s 2019 legislation that limits compensation increases in public-sector contracts to 1% a year. It says curbing violence against hospital staff begins with zero tolerance and it would like to see more funding and staffing, whistleblower protection and more support for those who are victimized.
Related:
Le personnel hospitalier de l’Ontario est victime d’une pandémie inquiétante de violence physique et sexuelle - SCFP