Nurses deserve the appro­priate PPE to safely care for our patients in this pandemic and this week the state agency that inves­ti­gates workplace safety viola­tions agreed with nurses that Skagit Regional Health failed in its respon­si­bility to provide a safe and healthy work environ­ment.

WSNA filed a DOSH complaint after members described issues with inade­quate PPE, improper training of PPE and inadequate education regarding safety with cleaning chemicals. Several nurse members were inter­viewed by DOSH as part of this inves­ti­ga­tion. The willing­ness of nurses to speak out and work with your union in identi­fying workplace hazards resulted in an impor­tant finding and citation against SRH.

At the conclu­sion of its inves­ti­ga­tion, DOSH classi­fied Skagit Regional Health’s failure to properly ​provide staff with PPE as a ​“serious” viola­tion of the law. WSNA antic­i­pates DOSH will issue a formal Citation shortly which subjects SRH to a monetary penalty in the form of a fine and SRH then has 30 days to take correc­tive action. Any Citation must be posted in the facility clearly visible for three (3) working days or until the viola­tion has been corrected.

WSNA members continue to monitor and report on workplace safety viola­tions in Local Units across the state. If neces­sary WSNA will file complaints with DOSH to protect the health and safety of nurse members. If you are concerned for your safety at work or if you have any questions or concerns, contact any of your Local Unit Officers below or Nurse Repre­sen­ta­tive Sue Dunlap sdunlap@wsna.org.

In solidarity,

Liz Rainaud MSN, RN – Local Unit Chair:
Jessica Googe RN - Secretary
Hannah Guy BSN RN Treasurer
Kristi Perez RN CMSRN Secretary / Grievance Officer
Alice Riddle RN - Membership
Cheryl Pedersen RN – Grievance Officer
Rachel Yates RN – Co-Membership
Sue Dunlap MSN, RN, COS-C WSNA Nurse Representative