savelife

The Role of Safety in Preventing Workplace Burnout

glen@savelife.com.au — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 00:17:01 GMT

Burnout is a growing concern in many industries, and the television production world is no exception. With tight deadlines, long hours, and high-pressure environments, production teams are often at risk. However, one overlooked factor in preventing burnout is workplace safety. Safety protocols are not only about physical protection but also about creating a healthy, balanced work environment that reduces stress, boosts morale, and ultimately helps prevent burnout.

The Story of Sarah:

Sarah, a producer for a television show, was known for her efficiency, organization, and commitment to delivering on time. But as production moved forward, the pressure increased. Long days on set, constant changes in the script, and the demands of meeting tight broadcast schedules started to take their toll. Sarah found herself staying late at the office, feeling drained and irritable, and struggling to stay motivated. Despite her success, she began to feel disconnected and overwhelmed by the growing stress.

She wasn’t alone—her crew was also feeling the strain. Crew members were exhausted, making more mistakes, and some were even skipping breaks to keep up with the demands. The atmosphere on set became tense, and productivity dropped. That's when the production company decided to refocus on safety, not just for the physical risks of the job but for the well-being of everyone involved.

A Shift in Focus:

The production company introduced a comprehensive safety program that addressed both physical and mental health. They implemented regular breaks, wellness checks, and an open-door policy to discuss stress. Supervisors were trained to recognize signs of burnout and encouraged open conversations about workload and mental strain. In addition to ensuring that everyone had the necessary safety training for equipment and set conditions, the company began managing schedules to ensure they were more realistic and sustainable.

They also introduced a “Safety Buddy” system, where crew members were paired to check in on each other throughout the day. This allowed employees to talk openly about stress, personal challenges, and the pressures of the job, creating a supportive network on set.

The Impact on Sarah and Her Team:

At first, Sarah was sceptical about the changes. She had always believed that the fast pace and stress of television production were part of the job. But as the safety culture took hold, Sarah noticed a shift. The focus on mental health allowed her to speak openly about her stress, and supervisors acknowledged the team's pressure, offering help with managing the workload.

The changes made a significant difference. Sarah found that taking regular breaks, having honest discussions with her team, and knowing her company cared about her well-being helped her regain her energy and motivation. She felt more connected to her team, and as morale improved, productivity increased. She no longer felt the constant pressure to perform at the expense of her mental health.

The Broader Impact:

As the weeks passed, the production team noticed fewer mistakes and a more efficient workflow. The company saw fewer injuries and accidents on set, as workers were more focused and alert due to reduced stress. Morale improved across the board, and the team began viewing safety not just as a compliance requirement but as a commitment to their overall health and well-being.

The integration of mental health into the safety protocols led to a more resilient, motivated crew that felt appreciated and supported. This not only reduced burnout but also strengthened the bond of trust between employees and the production company.

Conclusion:

Sarah’s story is a prime example of how safety in the television production industry can prevent burnout. By addressing both physical and mental health, companies create a more sustainable and supportive work environment. Investing in safety—both physical and mental—can improve productivity, reduce burnout, and create a thriving workplace where employees feel empowered to succeed without sacrificing their well-being.

Why you need a Skilled and Experienced Safety Supervisor

glen@savelife.com.au — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 00:13:42 GMT

Whether it's a live concert, a film shoot, or a major sporting event, safety is a top priority. In high-stakes environments where large crowds, complex logistics, and high-pressure situations are the norm, the role of a skilled and experienced safety supervisor is essential. Their expertise ensures the safety of both staff and the public, while also minimizing the impact of emergencies should they arise.

Why a Skilled and Experienced Safety Supervisor is Crucial

A skilled safety supervisor does more than just follow basic safety protocols—they actively assess risks, anticipate potential hazards, and lead the response to emergencies when they occur. Their experience allows them to quickly make decisions under pressure and coordinate efforts across various teams, creating a safer and more controlled environment. Whether it’s a medical emergency, fire, or equipment failure, having an experienced safety supervisor on-site can make all the difference in reducing chaos and ensuring everyone’s well-being.

Key Responsibilities of a Safety Supervisor

Risk Assessment and Prevention
Safety supervisors are proactive in identifying potential risks before they become serious issues. Whether it’s crowd management, equipment safety, or emergency evacuation routes, they evaluate and address hazards to prevent accidents from happening in the first place.
Emergency Preparedness and Response
When an emergency arises, a safety supervisor leads the charge. With their training and experience, they know exactly what steps to take, whether it’s evacuating the venue, providing first aid, or managing a technical failure. Their calm demeanor and decisive actions help minimize panic and ensure a swift, organized response.
Training and Coordination
A key aspect of a safety supervisor’s role is ensuring that everyone on-site is properly trained and understands their responsibilities in an emergency. From production staff to security personnel, a safety supervisor coordinates safety drills, provides ongoing training, and ensures clear communication among all teams.
Compliance and Regulation
A skilled safety supervisor is knowledgeable about local laws, regulations, and industry standards. They ensure the event or production meets all safety requirements, from equipment inspections to emergency protocols, reducing the risk of legal complications.

How Skilled Safety Supervisors Reduce the Impact of Emergencies

When an emergency happens, the speed and effectiveness of the response can significantly impact the outcome. An experienced safety supervisor quickly assesses the severity of the situation, communicates with emergency services, and directs both staff and the public to safety. By staying calm and organized, they prevent further complications and help restore order.

For example, during a medical emergency at a major sporting event, a safety supervisor can quickly alert medical teams, manage crowd control, and ensure that the incident is handled with minimal disruption to the event. In case of technical failures on a film set, the supervisor can quickly activate backup plans, keeping the production on schedule.

Long-Term Benefits of Skilled Safety Supervision

Increased Public Confidence
When attendees see that safety measures are in place and well-executed, they feel more secure, leading to higher attendance and greater satisfaction. A skilled safety supervisor builds public trust by ensuring that safety protocols are followed consistently.
Reduced Liability and Risk
By preventing accidents and ensuring safety compliance, safety supervisors reduce the risk of lawsuits and legal complications. Their expertise minimizes liability for the venue or production company and helps ensure the event runs smoothly without major incidents.
Improved Staff Morale and Efficiency
Staff are more likely to perform confidently and effectively when they know that their safety is a priority. A safety-focused environment boosts morale and helps employees stay focused on their tasks, knowing they have a clear and reliable support system in place.

Conclusion

In any event or production, having a skilled and experienced safety supervisor is critical to ensuring the safety of both the public and staff. Their ability to identify risks, respond swiftly to emergencies, and coordinate safety efforts across teams reduces the likelihood of incidents and helps mitigate the impact when crises do occur. Investing in a skilled safety supervisor not only ensures a safer environment but also boosts public confidence, reduces legal risks, and contributes to the overall success of an event or production. Safety is not just about following rules—it’s about creating an environment where both staff and guests feel secure, knowing they are in good hands.

Navigating the COVID-19 Landscape in 2024: Do we need to panic about JN1 ?

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 01:57:09 GMT

Since 2019, the business landscape has undergone significant transformations in the wake of the global COVID-19 pandemic. As we step into 2024, companies worldwide continue to grapple with the evolving challenges and opportunities presented by the ongoing pandemic. In 2023, COVID-19 produced a new strain called JN.1: Question is do we need to panic?

The short answer is NO. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has labelled JN.1 as a “variant of interest" (VOI), a designation given to certain variants of a virus, such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19. VOI’s are closely monitored due to specific characteristics that may have implications for public health efforts. The criteria for designating a variant as a VOI may vary by health organizations.

Generally, a variant of interest may exhibit one or more of the following features:

Increased Transmission: The variant may show evidence of increased transmissibility, meaning it spreads more easily from person to person.
Impact on Diagnostics, Treatments, or Vaccines: There may be concerns that the variant could impact the effectiveness of diagnostic tests, treatments, or vaccines.
Potential for Increased Severity: The variant might be associated with more severe disease outcomes.
Increased Resistance to Immunity: There could be indications that the variant is less susceptible to immunity generated through previous infection or vaccination.

It's important to note that the designation of a variant as a "variant of interest" does not necessarily mean that it poses a significant threat . It is a classification used by health authorities to draw attention to certain variants that warrant closer monitoring and further investigation. If a variant demonstrates increased risk and becomes more concerning, it may be reclassified as a "variant of concern."

Public health agencies, such as the WHO and national health organizations, regularly assess and classify variants based on these criteria to inform public health measures and strategies. Monitoring and understanding the characteristics of variants are crucial components of the ongoing efforts to control and manage the spread of infectious diseases.

The U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at the time provided an update on the JN.1 subvariant. According to the CDC, there is currently no evidence suggesting that JN.1 poses an elevated risk to public health compared to other variants currently in circulation. Moreover, the CDC reassured that individuals who receive an updated vaccine shot can continue to be effectively protected against this specific variant.

So what do we need to do?

Continue to implement robust health protocols, including regular sanitization, social distancing measures, and if appropriate vaccination policies. Also monitor public health messaging and adjust accordingly, ensuring that you prioritise the safety of employees and customers not only protects public health but also builds trust in the brand.

As businesses chart their course in 2024, the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic should continue to shape your strategies and priorities. Fostering resilience, prioritising employee well-being, and maintaining a customer-centric focus are key pillars for success in the post-COVID era. By staying agile and innovative, businesses can not only weather uncertainties but also thrive in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

Risk vs Safety Supervisor – Which One Do I Need ?

glen@savelife.com.au — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 03:25:56 GMT

There is a reason why events have Safety Supervisors on site, and not Risk Supervisors.

In any situation, ensuring a safe and secure work environment is of paramount importance. To achieve this, companies often have dedicated professionals responsible for managing risks and promoting safety. These professionals are known as risk supervisors and safety supervisors. In this blog, we will explore the key differences between these two roles and help you determine which one your event may need.

What is a Safety Supervisor?

A safety supervisor, also referred to as a safety officer or safety coordinator, is responsible for promoting and maintaining a safe working environment for employees. Their primary objective is to prevent accidents, injuries, and occupational hazards by implementing safety protocols, conducting inspections, and providing safety training to employees. Safety supervisors monitor compliance with safety regulations, investigate incidents, and develop strategies to minimize workplace risks. They possess strong communication and organizational skills.

What is a Risk Supervisor?

A risk supervisor, also known as a risk manager or risk assessor, plays a crucial role in identifying, assessing, and mitigating potential risks that can impact an organization's operations, assets, or reputation. Their primary focus is on analyzing the probability and potential impact of risks, developing risk management strategies, and implementing risk control measures. Risk supervisors work closely with various stakeholders to ensure risks are identified and addressed effectively. They typically possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

How do you get both without breaking the budget?

At SaveLife, during pre-production or event planning stage we focus on Risk Management, primarily focusing on identifying and managing risks that can impact the organization, including financial, legal, and reputational risks. Analysing risks at a broader level, considering the overall impact on the client’s objectives and strategies. It is during the pre-production stage our risk supervisors apply their strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking abilities. Applying risk assessment methodologies and knowledge of various risk management frameworks.

Once the event or production is underway, our experts become Safety Supervisors, concentrating on ensuring the physical safety and well-being of employees within the workplace. Safety supervisors, focus on specific workplace safety measures and compliance with regulations. Calling on their excellent communication, training, and inspection skills, along with a deep understanding of occupational health and safety regulations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both risk supervisors and safety supervisors play vital roles in maintaining a safe and secure work environment. It is key that the person you engage has the skills and experience to understand the differences between these roles and how to move between each function smoothly. Doing so will ensure the well-being of your employees and the overall success of your event or production.

Safety boosts morale: a crucial factor for a productive work environment

glen@savelife.com.au — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 03:16:51 GMT

Introduction:

In today's fast-paced and competitive world, productions and event organisers are increasingly recognizing the importance of prioritizing employee morale. A positive work environment not only enhances productivity but also fosters loyalty and job satisfaction amongst the team. One of the key factors that contribute to a high morale is safety. In this blog post, we will explore how safety boosts morale and discuss the various ways in which organizations can create a safe work environment for their employees.

1. Safety as a Confidence Booster:

When your team feel safe and secure in their workplace, it instils a sense of confidence in them. Knowing that their employer prioritizes their well-being and takes necessary precautions to ensure their safety, employees are more likely to feel valued and motivated. This confidence translates into higher job satisfaction and a positive attitude towards work, ultimately boosting morale.

2. Reduced Stress and Anxiety:

A safe work environment significantly reduces stress and anxiety amongst the team. When employees are confident that they are protected from potential hazards and risks, they can focus better on their tasks and responsibilities. This reduction in stress levels allows the team to feel more relaxed, leading to an increase in job satisfaction and overall morale.

3. Increased Productivity:

Safety measures and protocols in the workplace not only protect everyone from accidents but also create an atmosphere conducive to productivity. When the team are not constantly worried about their well-being, they can concentrate on their work more effectively. This increased focus and productivity have a direct impact on employee morale, as they feel a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.

4. Trust and Loyalty:

A safe work environment fosters trust and loyalty. When the team feel that management genuinely cares about their safety, they are more likely to develop a sense of loyalty towards the company. This loyalty strengthens the bond between the team and production, leading to higher job satisfaction and increased morale.

5. Positive Company Culture:

Safety initiatives and practices contribute to shaping a positive company culture. By prioritizing safety, organizations send a clear message to the team that their well-being matters. This commitment to safety creates a sense of unity and fosters a positive work environment, where employees feel valued and supported. A positive company culture, in turn, enhances morale and helps in attracting and retaining top talent.

Conclusion:

A safe work environment is a crucial factor in boosting team morale. By prioritizing safety, organizations not only protect everyone from potential hazards but also create a positive work atmosphere that fosters loyalty, trust, and productivity. Investing in safety measures and promoting a culture of safety can significantly enhance employee morale, leading to a happier and more productive workforce.

When is a Nurse not the right Nurse ?

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 08:01:14 GMT

Originally Registered Nurses had to maintain a BASIC first aid qualification, however that is no longer the case. In Australia, “exemptions for first aid certificates are available for registered nurses, medical doctors and professional paramedics. Nurses are only required to hold a current registration certificate”. https://www.realresponse.com.au/first-aid-courses/perth/certificate/

I have just spent 9 weeks on a television production as its safety supervisor, with another company providing the “Set Nurse” to cover first aid. Over that 9 weeks, we had 4 different registered nurses attend. Only two of the four had any real emergency response experience. The provider had met their contractual requirement to provide a “registered nurse”, but some of them, had no ongoing skill maintenance or experience in onsite emergency response or the equipment (more on this later) required to manage any real emergency.

While nurses are required to undertake continuing professional development (CPD) hours, “they only need to do study in areas directly relevant to their context of practice” . https://www.apna.asn.au/education/what-is-cpd . So, for nurses in mental health, child and family health, and perioperative care, first aid might be very low on their skill needs.

Just because the owner of a company or the on-set nurse might be a nice person, does not mean you should accept any nurse for a production, especially one that does not have critical emergency first aid skills. That is the reason why SaveLife carefully screen all the nurses who try and get a role with our company. For example, our latest member to the SaveLife team, Jane Hancock , who has more experience than any set nurse I know. Jane has spent time on the Mercy Ships and Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) .

This problems is not new, in an article written by Safety Consultant Jon Heaney back in Aug 2019, where he identified “NSW health states that only some university’s require nurses to hold their first aid certificate, but not all of them, so it stands that it is not mandatory for someone to hold a 1st aid certificate to become a Registered Nurse.”

“A trained first aider should hold a nationally recognised statement of attainment from a registered training organisation. Some workplaces may require more specific or advanced first aid training depending on the nature of the work or the workplace. First aiders should attend training regularly, so their knowledge and skills are up-to-date.” https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/safety-set-1st-aid-who-when-why-jon-heaney/

But no matter how skilled the nurse or paramedic, they are powerless if they do not have the right gear on site. On the last two productions I have been on, where SaveLife did not provide the medical care, the on-set nurse and paramedic had no advanced airway equipment. Equipment critical for an unconscious patient, no matter what the cause. Or carry pain medication that can give immediate relief until an ambulance arrives. I must be honest I was so frustrated, that the answer I received back from these “medical professionals” was “ we don’t carry that, we would call 000 ”. What then is a production paying for?

Ask yourself this one question: What do you think you are getting when you request a Nurse or Paramedic? A lot of the time it isn’t what would turn up if you dialled 000.

At no extra cost, SaveLife medics will always turn up with oxygen, defib, trauma kit and significant pain relief (green whistle) and be qualified and experienced in emergency response. Because isn’t that what you really want?

Don't get caught out, your medics should have malpractice insurance

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 02:10:32 GMT

There are four misconceptions out there that paid on-set medical response staff do not need their own malpractice insurance.

Taylor & Swift, Lawyers who specialise in medical negligence claims in Australia have advised that " medical staff in Australia are required by law to have Professional Indemnity Insurance* " (medical malpractice insurance). Here are four common misconceptions:

Misconception One : Medical staff only need public liability insurance.

Fact: Public Liability does not cover medical malpractice. Industry specific professional indemnity insurance policies are designed and required for that purpose.

Misconception Two : Your corporate/association policy will cover your medical responders.

Fact: That is not completely correct, corporate policies normally have broad approach and do not cover specific medical malpractice incidents. This is made even more complex if the on-site medic is self-employed. Even as an employee, the hourly rate you pay for your medic should include them being covered by their own medical malpractice policy, as it helps ensure that there is adequate and appropriate cover for all aspects of the medical and emergency response.

Misconception Three : If a medic does nothing wrong they don’t need malpractice insurance.

Fact: Even if your emergency team do everything right, it does not stop them from being sued. Even if they are found not liable, there is likely substantial costs in defending any claim, even one based on unfounded allegations. In an employer group policy, there may not be sufficient cover for both your organisation and the individual medic to receive the best legal advice and representation.

Misconception Four : Paid medical staff are covered by the “Good Samaritan” legislation

Fact: This is not the case if the person is receiving remuneration for said medical service. This legislation was put in place to protect everyday Mum’s & Dad’s, even medical practitioners, when they provide first aid “without an expectation of being paid”. For example, passing an accident scene and rendering assistance. A paid on-set nurse, paramedic or medic on-set does receive remuneration to provide said service.

With the above in mind, SaveLife as well as having workers compensation and public liability insurances, has in place a $10 million dollar professional indemnity malpractice policy to cover our medical services.

* https://www.taylorandscott.com.au/compensation-lawyers/medical-negligence/5-common-questions-medical-negligence-claims-australia/

COVID19 Vaccines Explained

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 05:36:49 GMT

WHICH VACCINE WILL AUSTRALIA USE?

February 2021

Australia’s COVID vaccine rollout scheduled to begin in mid- to late February . Vaccination will commence with workers dealing with international arrivals or quarantine facilities, frontline health workers and those living in aged care or with a disability. Read more: https://theconversation.com/australias-vaccine-rollout-will-now-start-next-month-heres-what-well-need-152612

The Australian Government announced on the 6th Jan 2021, that the first rollout of vaccines will be Pfizer-BioNtech of which the Government has secured 10 million doses. Followed by 50 million doses of Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine produced in Victoria. Each of these vaccines will be subject to approval by the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Association).

WHY ARE WE NOT RUSHING TO START VACCINATING IN AUSTRALIA

The vaccines in the UK and the USA have only received ‘emergency approval’ of the vaccines currently being distributed which means stage 3 trials are not finished but the demand is too great to wait as both countries are in dire situations with increasing COVID-19 cases and though we have active cases currently, our situation is much better controlled. The TGA would rather wait to receive the full trial results before giving approval. This is expected to now in February 2021.

In January 2021, there were more than 200 vaccine candidates around the world, 48 of which are in clinical trials. To see the latest on the vaccine landscape click here: https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/draft-landscape-of-covid-19-candidate-vaccines.

To ensure Australians will have access to COVID-19 vaccines, the federal government established agreements with suppliers of four of the most promising vaccine candidates. The vaccines have been carefully assessed on advice from a Science and Industry Technical Advisory Group .

So far, the vaccines for which Australia are considering include the AstraZeneca/University of Oxford vaccine, the Novavax vaccine, and the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine. There is also possibly the Novavax vaccine which is still in phase 3 trials which is manufactured in the USA.

One big question surrounding all of the coronavirus vaccines, is whether they prevent asymptomatic infections as well as illness caused by the virus. Reducing asymptomatic infections, when people can spread the virus without knowing they have it, could have a big impact on slowing the spread of the disease. The Oxford data found some evidence of reduced asymptomatic infections in those who received the half-dose followed by a full dose later.

No one knows for how long coronavirus vaccine provides protection. Some vaccines are effective for years, but for obvious reasons this will take longer to confirm.

R ead more: What do we know about the Novavax and Pfizer COVID vaccines

The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, which is currently being administered in the UK, is chemically made - using genetic material. These vaccines are created using new technology, known as mRNA, which introduces a genetic code the body can use to make its own viral protein to induce an immune response.

These agreements will only progress in Australia should the vaccines prove safe and effective, as assessed by the TGA , which will look at the quality of the vaccine, the degree of protection it offers, and its safety. At this stage, the TGA have not approved either vaccine to be administered in Australia.

R ead More: Information from WHO re vaccine development

REACTION - REPORT OF SEVERE ALLERGIES REPORTED FROM THE UK

10th December 2020: Britain's medical regulator has warned that people with a history of serious allergic reactions should not get the COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer and BioNTech

Key points:

People with a history of severe allergic reactions to vaccine, medicine or food are now being told to not take the vaccine
This advice is not uncommon as several vaccines already on the market carry warnings about allergic reactions and subsequent precautionary measures such as the use of ‘epipen’ or having the vaccination is facilities which have resuscitation equipment
Late-stage vaccine trials in the UK found "no serious safety concerns"
The medical director of the NHS in England says both affected patients are recovering

WHY KEEP PFIZER/BIONTECH SUPERCOLD?

The most important challenge for development of a mRNA vaccine remains its inherent instability , because it is more likely to break apart above freezing temperatures.

The vaccine needs to be stored at -80 degrees until the last few days, then stored in a vaccine suitable fridge. Dosage is recommended as 2 doses 21 days apart

V ACCINATIONS FOR CHILDREN under 12 – UPDATE

The vaccine is being tested in adults 18-54 years of age, 55-85 years of age and adolescents 12-18 years of age. The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine is the first COVID-19 vaccine to be tested in adolescents.

There is no COVID-19 vaccine being developed specifically for children. So if children are to be vaccinated, they will likely receive the same vaccine as adults.

Children might require a different dosing schedule, but that is not yet clear. The way a child’s immune system reacts to pathogens or vaccines can be different to adults. Age can determine the number of required doses. For example, infants sometimes require more doses of a vaccine than older children. Age can also influence the side-effect profile of a vaccine. For example, mild fever following vaccination can be common in babies and young children.

Vaccine trials are usually done in stages . They typically start with healthy, young and middle-aged adults.

Once a vaccine is confirmed to be safe in these earlier trials, developers then test the vaccine in older and younger age groups.

There are no protocols yet including children in COVID-19 vaccine trials run in Australia. Any Australian studies would only likely examine the immune response and safety in children (phase 1 and 2 trials). They would probably not examine effectiveness (phase 3 trials) because of the low rates of COVID-19 here.

Researchers will need to examine the dosages, interval between doses, and the number of doses which work best in children.
This process could take several months
Kids may not have an approved vaccine until middle or late 2021.

UPDATE RE COVID-19 VACCINE DISTRIBUTION

The ATAGI has provided preliminary advice regarding COVID-19 vaccines strategy for procurement and program delivery for 2021. This document discusses efficacy, duration or protection, targeted groups and modes of delivery. As a summary, those identified as high risk are a priority.

UPDATE AS TO WHO IS PRIORITY TO RECEIVE THESE VACCINES?

The Australian COVID-19 Vaccination Policy , endorsed by the National Cabinet on 13 November 2020 discusses the Federal Government selecting and purchasing the vaccines, decide who gets the vaccines and set the standards for the immunisation program.

State and Territory governments will deliver the immunisation program from specified locations. On page 12 it says: Workplace vaccinations: Some larger corporations and high-risk workplaces may establish workplace vaccination clinics in partnership with State and Territory health services or private providers.

While we are still to see what NSW Health decides and what is the most effective and efficient way for our workforce to receive vaccinations, there is no formal approval from Australia to begin a roll out, as approval must first be sought from the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration). It will be interesting to see how the UK responds. Herd immunity isn’t really a consideration for entire population as the BioNTech-Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine is possible not suitable for children under 12 at this stage. Possible more doses for at risk groups such as those who are immunocompromised. For further information regarding this vaccine, see link from the Australian Government.

SaveLife engages infectious disease expert

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 06:06:56 GMT

February 2021

It became very quickly apparent to ensure clients could protect their staff and clients from the spreading COVID-19, keeping up to date with the latest Health Department instruction would be the key.

Fortunately, SaveLife has a network of medical and emergency experts to call on when looking for an expert in infectious disease, and we could not have been more fortunate.

Chrissy Stimson, subject matter expert in infectious disease prevention and control agreed to join the SaveLife team. Her expertise has been key to looking after SaveLife’s clients in the COVID-19 world in which we operate.

Since becoming a registered nurse in 1986, Chrissy over the years has acquired the qualifications and experience that established her as a subject matter expert in infectious disease prevention and control and immunisation.

In 2010, Chrissy became the Infectious Disease and Immunisation project officer at Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District. Her skills then saw her moving to the Australian College of Nursing in 2014, to lecture in Infectious Disease and Immunisation.

Since the start of COVID-19, Chrissy has worked full-time as a member of the COVID-19 Incident Management Team for FRNSW, as the subject matter expert in Infectious Disease Prevention and Control and Immunisation.

Chrissy has agreed to be available for SaveLife clients to review and implement cutting edge COVID-19 safety plans, and when vaccines become available, how these will affect your safety plans.

Please contact Glen to discuss your needs.