Safety

Report: Canadian health system failed to protect workers from SARS

OSHA Healthcare Connection, January 16, 2007

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Widespread failures in Ontario's health system failed to protect healthcare workers during the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) outbreak in Toronto in 2003, according to Reuters, January 9.

A report by Justice Archie Campbell of the Ontario Superior Court identified two province-wide systemic failures: not adequately preparing for infection control in healthcare facilities and not acknowledging healthcare worker safety concerns and preparing to address them. The report characterized Ontario healthcare facilities as "dangerous workplaces" during the outbreak.

Healthcare workers accounted for nearly half of 375 people infected by the SARS virus in Ontario. Two nurses and a physician were among the fatalities, the report noted.



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