The Federation of Health and Social Services (FSSS-CSN) denounces the new recommendations of the National Institute of Public Health of Quebec (INSPQ) which do not adequately protect health workers.
In fact, even if it recognizes the risk of airborne transmission of COVID-19, the INSPQ advises establishments in the health network to offer a type N-95 protective device or the equivalent only when an outbreak occurs. of COVID-19 is out of control in a workplace.
The FSSS-CSN expresses its dissatisfaction with these protection measures which are “totally contrary to[s] to the precautionary principle ”.
“For months we have been asking the authorities to protect staff adequately in the workplace and instead of responding to the call, we expose staff to dangers that are recognized by these same authorities, until that the situation is out of control, explains Jeff Begley, president of the FSSS – CSN, via press release. It doesn’t make any sense, it’s downright dangerous and the government must intervene immediately, especially since the MSSS always claims that there is no shortage of N-95 respirators. ”
CNESST
The FSSS-CSN also recalls that the CNESST is responsible for the application of the law. She asks him to seriously consider the protection of health workers.
“The CNESST must intervene now and immediately stop abdicating its role in favor of the INSPQ,” said Judith Huot, first vice-president at the FSSS and responsible for the OHS file, in a press release.
Since the start of the pandemic, more than 30,000 healthcare workers have been infected with COVID-19.
“The people who put people at such risk in this way bear a heavy responsibility,” says Begley. (C.R.)
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