Breaking the Cycle of Violence in the Workplace: The Story of Sutter Health’s New Security Measures

In order to implement effective workplace violence prevention plans, Comsti emphasizes the importance of reporting violent incidents. These reports allow employees to stay informed and work with their employer to address any areas that need improvement.

Advocates, such as Golomb and her colleagues, have been pushing for increased safety measures at Sutter Health facilities. They recently presented a petition to hospital management signed by over 100 psychiatry residents, fellows, and nurses. The petition outlined demands for 24/7 security presence in the inpatient psych unit and intensive care unit to ensure a safe working environment.

In response to Golomb’s story published on March 8 by KQED, Sutter Health’s president and CEO, Warner Thomas, addressed hospital employees in an email titled “Keeping you safe from harm at work.” This communication emphasized the organization’s commitment to prioritizing employee safety and ensuring a secure work environment. As a result of this incident, Sutter Health has invested nearly $40 million in security enhancements for the unit where Golomb was attacked. Measures include the purchase of cameras, panic buttons, duress alarms, and secure doors. A security officer now patrols the area during the day to enhance safety measures.