In a significant move, the main safety representative of the healthcare union has announced the expansion of a protection stop for ambulance services across Region Stockholm. This development means that ambulance staff are now barred from responding to emergency calls involving patients who have previously threatened or exhibited violent behavior towards healthcare workers. This decision comes after a specific stop was initiated for a single patient, reflecting growing concerns about the safety of medical personnel in the line of duty.

Emil Skoglund, the chief safety representative, communicated this decision via Facebook, emphasizing the need for necessary evaluations before ambulance personnel are tasked with attending to potentially dangerous situations. The safety stop is rooted in documented incidents where employees have been subjected to serious threats or physical violence, highlighting a concerning trend within the ambulance service. According to current regulations, the employer has until Friday at 12:34 PM to respond to this escalation of the safety measures.

Failure to address the safety concerns and comply with the protections outlined by the safety representative could lead to intervention from Sweden’s Work Environment Authority (Arbetsmiljöverket). Skoglund has pointed out that if the employer does not meet what are deemed reasonable demands for safety, including the presence of police in known high-risk situations, the matter may require further action to ensure the safety of healthcare workers. This situation reflects a broader issue regarding violence against healthcare professionals and the measures needed to protect them in their crucial roles during emergencies.