SUNMOUNT TRAINING GROUP — Seated (L-R): Sarah Gessert, Debbie Leonard, Linda Shaw. Standing: Walt Daniels, Rabbi Kenneth White, James Constant, Randy Gay, Tom Sloan, Ed Snow and Betty Henning.

Preventing workplace violence tops list at Sunmount DDSO

Even though some managers at state agencies may give a back seat to workplace violence prevention training, the director of Sunmount Developmental Disabilities Services Office (DDSO) took a giant step forward in May.

He not only supported the four PEF Division 242 officers who attended a PEF health and safety training on how to prevent workplace violence, he authorized six more employees to take the class.

“Our director (Joseph Colarusso) recognized workplace violence as a serious issue and allowed people to attend the training without charging their leave,” said council leader Ed Snow Jr.

“Our facility has situations where people get hurt at work,” Snow said. “Our director has shown a commitment to creating a safer work environment.”

Since the training, the Sunmount staff development director, PEF member Tom Sloan, said he is eager to improve workplace safety.

“When you are dealing with people who have a history of violence, you are always looking for ways to create a safer environment for our staff,” Sloan said.

“There is definitely a concern for public employees and safety on the job.

“People know there is a risk with the job, but I hope no one believes that getting hurt is part of the job. Our concern is taking precautions to minimize that risk.”

Snow and Sloan said they were elated that one of PEF’s workplace violence bills has been signed into law, and the two remaining bills have been passed by the Legislature. (See related story, page 4.) — Deborah A. Miles
 

The Communicator July/Aug. '06

Features
Brynien-Igoe ticket sweeps
Pataki signs Go Public bill
PEF wins on workplace violence

Departments
President's Message
You Said It - Member's Mailbag
Legislative Action
Member Mobilizer: Parole
Stronger Contract: NDRI pact
Health Notes
Retirees in Action
Member Highlights
Membership Benefits & Travel

Union Matters
PEF endorses Spitzer for gov.
OGS members fully mobilized
HCSAccount  debit card planned
OCFS wastes $26 million
Sunmount DDSO gets training
25/55 retirement bill passes
Scacalossi scholarship winners
Prison teacher helps students
PEF pushes bill to end Nurses OT
OMH & OMRDD needs help
DCAA can help you out
There's more to you vision care
Retirees turn to making ice cream

Other Links
Professional Directory
Members' Classified
Member Communicator Feedback
Prefer The Online Edition?
How To Advertise Here
The Communicator Staff

Questions on this site?
Email the Webmaster