Security guards now at Wallaroo Hospital

Round the clock security guards started at Wallaroo Hospital on Friday, 1 September. 

The security guards will be contracted for a six-month trial period while an ongoing security model is developed to be implemented in the long term. 

Closed circuit television, improved physical hospital spaces, duress alarms and additional training for staff have also been employed as part of improved security measures. 

Management of the Yorke and Northern Local Health Network has formed an implementation group that includes staff and union involvement to ensure that the workforce is engaged in this process. 

Staff will be regularly surveyed during the trial to gauge sentiment and whether the security presence is making a difference to the workplace. 

“I welcome the 24/7 security guards commencing at Wallaroo Hospital and congratulate the whole community who rallied behind the push for this outcome to happen", Member for Narungga Fraser Ellis MP said.

“The safety of day and night hospital staff is the priority and must override all other financial and administrative decisions and I commend the Yorke and Northern Local Health Network Governing Board in ensuring this relatively swift policy implementation.

“The violent incidents that had been occurring that caused need for this increased security were very alarming for all and certainly justifies the allocation of these increased resources.

“I sincerely hope that all staff now feel safer and fully supported in their workplace that provides such essential front line health services in our region”.