OSH Supports International Nurses Day

Monday 11 May 1998

The Occupational Safety and Health Service of the Department of Labour (OSH) is lending its support to tomorrow’s International Nurses Day, highlighting the theme of Nursing in the Community.

"OSH employs Occupational Health Nurses in its 18 branches around New Zealand where their daily tasks vary from what the public traditionally thinks of a nurses role," said OSH Marketing and Communications Manager, Marlene Thomson, a former Occupational Health Nurse.

"Occupational Health Nurses (OHN’s) are integral in both the prevention and in the aftermath of workplace accidents and fatalities," Ms Thomson said

"Following a serious or fatal accident, they are often the vital link between the victim and OSH, as the nurses work with the victims and their families to prepare impact reports necessary for prosecutions."

"The needs of this work has meant an increasing number of nurses additionally are becoming warranted health and safety inspectors, making them even more valuable members of the Service."

"Occupational Health Nurses form the core OSH’s health focus and work closely with the Service’s Medical Practitioners, Scientists and Hygienists," said Ms Thomson.

"They provide employers and industry with information and assistance on specialist health and safety issues as diverse as the prevention of Occupational Overuse Syndrome, audiometry and solvent and dust sampling."

"Occupational Health Nurses provide invaluable experience and support to workplaces in the community, and OSH celebrates their excellent work by supporting International Nurses Day," Ms Thomson said.