Security still waiting for vests after ‘horrific’ stabbing at Townsville University Hospital, says union

It’s been over 100 days since a security guard was allegedly stabbed by a patient at Townsville University Hospital, and staff are still without the stab and slash-proof vests they’ve been demanding, according to a concerned union.

Townsville security officer Shannon Bell, AWU organiser Brad Ufer, Minister for Health Shannon Fentiman, and security officer Ray Carstens. Picture: Supplied.

It’s been over 100 days since a security guard was allegedly stabbed by a patient at Townsville University Hospital, and staff are still waiting for the stab and slash-proof vests they’ve been demanding, according to the Australian Workers’ Union (AWU).

The 42-year-old male guard was attacked on June 25 after a 69-year-old patient in the surgical ward allegedly entered a secure staff area and armed himself with knives just before 2am.

The hospital stated the patient was experiencing a medical episode at the time.

The guard, who hasn’t yet returned to work, required stitches, while the patient has been charged with assault occasioning bodily harm and wounding.

The AWU has been calling for better protection, saying such “horrific” incidents are not isolated and that more security officers, equipped with proper training and gear, are urgently needed.

“While we have been successful in securing funding for five new security officer positions at Townsville Hospital and Health Service, workers are still waiting for the equipment they need to keep our hospitals safe,” an AWU spokesman said.

Townsville University Hospital. Picture: Matt Taylor

“Potentially lifesaving equipment like stab and slash-proof vests and restraints are desperately needed across the entire system.

“Security officers at Townsville University Hospital do a fantastic job keeping patients and staff safe. They deserve the best possible standard of equipment, training and back up — we owe it to them.”

Minister for Health Shannon Fentiman and Townsville Hospital and Health Board chairman Tony Mooney at the Townsville University Hospital. Picture: Evan Morgan

Health Minister Shannon Fentiman reiterated a “zero tolerance” stance on occupational violence and said there had since been a $38 million investment in hospital security and personal protective equipment (PPE).

She also highlighted measures such as occupational violence prevention training.

“I fully support Queensland Health’s decision to review PPE to ensure security officers and health staff are equipped with the right tools and protections to stay safe at work,” she said.

“I understand Queensland Health is undertaking a procurement process together with the workforce, and relevant unions, to select a provider for occupational violence prevention training.

“This training is critical to the prevention of occupational violence as it provides clinicians and security officers with the de-escalation and safety tools they need to support and manage patients with challenging behaviours.”

Townsville Hospital and Health Service executive officer Kieran Keyes. Picture: Evan Morgan

Townsville Hospital and Health Service chief executive Kieran Keyes said the hospital’s review of the June 25 incident had been completed.

“The review made recommendations relating to personal protective equipment, staff training and emergency response protocols, and these are being actioned,” he said.

“An independent review panel has also been commissioned to investigate a separate incident and make appropriate recommendations relating to staff and patient safety.”

Mr Keyes said THHS was progressing through the final planning stages, including staff consultation, for a trial of stab-resistant vests for health security officers at Townsville University Hospital.

“Pending the identification and availability of appropriate equipment, trials are scheduled to begin before the end of January 2025,” he said.

“The trial is one of the recommendations actioned following a review of an incident in June this year.”

Information gathered during the trial will inform the Queensland Health Protective Personal Equipment review for health security officers which is scheduled to be finalised by June 2025.

Originally published as Security still waiting for vests after ‘horrific’ stabbing at Townsville University Hospital, says union