SafeWork NSW investigating cancer patient’s shocking death at Northern Beaches Hospital

A government authority has confirmed it is investigating the shock death of a patient at Northern Beaches Hospital - as it has been revealed concerns were previously raised about the safety of the area in which the man died.

Northern Beaches Hospital at Frenchs Forest.

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A government safety authority has confirmed it is investigating the death of a patient at Northern Beaches Hospital.

It follows a shocking incident where a cancer patient died in a well-known public space of Northern Beaches Hospital on Tuesday.

It has led to claims that the hospital’s private operator Healthscope was aware of concerns around the safety of its internal design prior to the incident.

Northern Beaches Hospital entrance was cordoned off after an incident on Tuesday. Picture: Jim O'Rourke

The Manly Daily is not going to name the space where there have been concerns, because the incident relates to a suspected suicide and a previous possible attempted suicide.

Authorities are aware of the location concerned.

Several sources revealed this week that concerns about the safety of the space had been previously raised with Healthscope management.

Concerns were escalated after an incident early last year involving another patient.

Some additional safety work was completed, but concerns remained, according to staff.

One employee said: “Since the opening of the hospital multiple ward staff raised the issue of (the space) and safety.”

It has also been claimed that SafeWork NSW had taken the “unusual step” of sending a letter to management last year saying it was aware concerns had been raised in regards to the location.

Multiple police cars were at the hospital on Tuesday.

SafeWork NSW would not confirm whether it had sent correspondence about its concerns to Healthscope management last year.

In a statement it said: “NSW Police reported the incident to SafeWork NSW on 21 January.

“SafeWork NSW will be conducting preliminary investigations to determine whether the incident is work related.”

The NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association did confirm its members had raised concerns with them and that officers had discussed it with hospital management during an onsite visit.

“On behalf of our members we raised initial concerns about the internal design of Northern Beaches Hospital,” Judith Kiejda, Acting General Secretary said.

“Those concerns were reiterated when our work health and safety officers walked through the facility with management in early 2019.

“We were assured the design met all relevant building codes, standards and regulations, including the Australasian Health Facility Guidelines, and it had also been approved by the NSW Ministry of Health.”

Northern Beaches Hospital at Frenchs Forest.

A spokesman for the hospital refused to comment on specific questions around whether management had been warned of the safety risks of the space.

“The incident at Northern Beaches Hospital is the subject of an ongoing police investigation and, therefore, it is inappropriate to comment further at this stage,” the spokesman said.

“Our first priority is supporting the family, visitors and staff.

“The hospital is offering counselling to staff and visitors.”

Police are investigating the death of a man believed to be in his 70s. A report is being compiled for the coroner.

If you or someone you know needs crisis support, phone Lifeline on 13 11 14.

For mental health services in your local area call the NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511.