October 22 - 28 is Facilities and Engineering Week and gives us the chance to showcase the important role that facilities team members have in ensuring a safe and efficient environment for patients, residents, staff, and visitors. Today, we are highlighting SEIU-West member Donald, a Facility Maintenance Operator at an urban acute care facility.
Working during the pandemic has been a challenge for Donald, he was busy but it was satisfying for him. We asked him how his job had changed as a result of the pandemic; he told us that he had to become more conscious about how infection spreads and control measures. He had previous experience working with hazardous materials, which was helpful in navigating the PPE measures and protocols.
The work of maintaining facilities can often go unnoticed, but the people doing this work are a vital part of the healthcare team. They keep the buildings, facilities, and grounds in good repair, while inspecting, testing, and monitoring the things we take for granted. To Donald, and your co-workers, thanks for all that you do!
April 28 is National Day of Mourning, a day held each year dedicated to remembering workers who have lost their lives on the job or been stricken by job-related illnesses. It also reminds us that improving workplace health and safety is an ongoing struggle.
Would you like to be a delegate at the 2025 SEIU-West Convention? It's being held in Saskatoon May 27-29.
April 22 is Earth Day, a day for people worldwide to unite in a global movement to acknowledge the climate crisis and seize the opportunities of a zero-carbon future.