North West Regional Hospital stabbing triggers review

The security review was announced on Wednesday following a stabbing at the emergency department of the NWRH on Easter Sunday.

Both Labor and the Health and Community Services Union have condemned the response to the wounding incident after it was revealed that WorkSafe Tasmania might not investigate it.

DoH Hospitals and Primary Care deputy secretary Dale Webster said that the appointment of Commander Smith to the independent security review team indicated how serious it was about safety.

"I'm pleased to engage someone with Geoff's security expertise and knowledge of the North West to lead this independent review into security and safety protocols in our Emergency Departments", he said.

"Geoff is the Managing Partner of the Tasmanian security and risk advisory practice, Alexander James & Partners and has over 40 years of policing experience, including as Police Commander, Tasmania Police Western District and leadership of various specialist policing units such as Tasmania Police's Counter-Terrorism Command.

"Importantly, during his career, he has led national initiatives in reviewing the private security industry and enhancing police protective security capability.

"Geoff recently held the position of Host-City Security Coordinator for the ICC Men's World Cup Australia 2022 where he was responsible for planning and delivery of security and integration with policing operations across a range of venues within New South Wales and Tasmania.

"The safety of staff and patients is of the utmost importance and we are committed to creating a safe and secure environment for all who come through the doors of our hospitals. We will continue to progress this review and implement its recommendations as a priority."

The review is due to be completed by October 2023.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content:

We've made it a whole lot easier for you to have your say. Our new comment platform requires only one log-in to access articles and to join the discussion on The Advocate website. Find out how to register so you can enjoy civil, friendly and engaging discussions.