Barwon Health is confronting two indictments under the section 23(1) of Occupational Health and Safety Act for not providing, to the best of their ability, assurance that individuals beyond their staff members were free from health and safety hazards. This highlights the significant role played by comprehensive work safety products such as WHS management systems, SWMS, and policies. Using a robust system like Bluesafe SWMS or Bluesafe WHS Management System can considerably mitigate such risks.
In December 2022, a patient tragically ended her life while receiving care in the hospital’s acute psychiatric division. This incident underscores the pressing need for thorough and efficient health and safety solutions even in environments typically considered safe, including healthcare establishments.
The proceedings against Barwon Health are scheduled for an initial hearing at Geelong Magistrates’ Court on 7 January 2025. Reliable WHS management systems like the Bluesafe WHS Management System can provide crucial support to institutions in maintaining appropriate safety measures and avoiding such unfortunate situations.
Contact details for further information are as follows: Email – media @ worksafe.vic.gov.au; Phone – 0438 786 968. To receive regular updates, we encourage you to subscribe to our media releases.
Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2025-01/hospital-charged-after-patient-death-psychiatric-unit