In an effort to enhance workplace safety and prevent confrontations in health care settings, the Province of British Columbia has fulfilled its commitment to recruit 320 new relational security officers [501b215a]. These officers are part of a new security model that aims to create safer work environments for health care workers and improve the quality of care for patients. The hiring of these officers is part of B.C.'s health human resources strategy, which focuses on recruiting, training, and retaining health care workers while fostering workplace satisfaction and innovation [b4b01cf9].
The relational security model is already in place in Island Health, with approximately 100 full-time-equivalent protection services officers in seven acute and two mental health sites. The success of this model has led to its expansion throughout the province [b4b01cf9].
All protection services personnel receive training in workplace violence prevention, mental health, and trauma-informed practice. The new relational security model is based on trauma-informed practice and focuses on creating a safer environment for staff and patients by preventing aggression. Indigenous cultural safety and anti-Indigenous racism are key components of the training, highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in health care settings [b4b01cf9].
The hiring of these relational security officers is a significant step towards improving workplace safety in health care settings. Workplace violence is a pressing issue in the health care sector, and addressing it is crucial for retaining and recruiting health care professionals [501b215a]. By providing proper training and support, these officers will contribute to a safer and more secure environment for health care workers and patients alike [501b215a].
Meanwhile, in Kelowna, there is a discussion about the potential implementation of transit police for the Kelowna Regional Transit System. Councillor Luke Stack has proposed the idea after being inspired by the presence of police officers, security, and transit peace officers in Calgary's downtown core during a conference. Stack believes that having transit police in Kelowna would help ensure the safety, efficiency, and cleanliness of the transit system, ultimately attracting more riders [ea7c2136].
The Metro Vancouver Transit Police is currently the only dedicated service in Canada focused on reducing crime and social disorder in and around a public transportation system. If Kelowna decides to move forward with the implementation of transit police, it could provide an additional layer of security and support for both transit users and employees [ea7c2136].