Search

What is deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

Hepatitis B is a vaccine preventable, potentially life-threatening liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is transmitted through exposure to blood and other body fluids.

The risk of needlestick injuries is a major hazard faced by CUPE members across the country. The use of puncture-resistant containers for disposing of sharps at the point of use together with a strong infection control program are essential to protecting workers. Most infection control programs are based on universal precautions. However, universal precautions cannot eliminate the risk of disease from needlestick injuries. Needlestick injuries can be avoided by demanding that employers provide puncture-resistant containers at each sharp point of use. In addition, employers must begin to use safer devices to eliminate the unnecessary use of needles. Alternatives, such as needle-free injectors, are now available and should be used when possible. Sharp instruments – needles, scalpels, lancets or even glass – should be considered as potential sources of infectious diseases, particularly those that are bloodborne. A needlestick or a cut from a contaminated sharp can lead to serious consequences for workers

CUPE is concerned the Health Standard Organization’s draft long-term care (LTC) standard is missing key elements, including set hours of care, full-time jobs, and paid sick leave needed to strengthen working and caring conditions. In its submission, CUPE called for these issues to be addressed, as well as the poor quality of care in for-profit long-term care in terms of governance and transparency.

This is the first of 5 fact sheets on sexual violence and harassment in post-secondary institutions, and the steps your union can take to address it. This fact sheet presents the multiple options for reporting or pursuing a complaint on experiences of sexual violence and harassment on campus.

Image

Sexual violence is a serious matter and affects all members of the campus community. We all have a role to play in preventing and responding to sexual violence and harassment. Our campus communities should be safe, healthy places for all students, workers, and visitors. You can help in cultivating a culture of respect and consent.

CUPE has produced a comprehensive guide to help locals build safer post-secondary institutions for staff and students. This guide, that includes an easy-to-follow checklist, was created to serve as a resource for local unions who are engaging in consultations on the creation or review of a university or college sexual violence and harassment policy.

To truly move forward in healing, as individuals and communities, our response to sexual violence and harassment must always be trauma-informed. But what does that look like in practice?

Take a look at our fact sheet that presents multiple options for accommodations for workers in post-secondary institutions who have been impacted by sexual violence and harassment. This fact sheet is part of CUPE’s Tools on Sexual Violence and Harassment in Post-Secondary Education. Did you know that your employer has a legal obligation to provide a safe workplace? He also has a legal duty to accommodate workers who face barriers to full participation in the workplace. Your union is here to help you and provide you all the support that you need.