New security officers to begin patrolling Manitoba hospitals

WINNIPEG – Manitoba's largest hospital will have new security staff until Monday to keep patients and staff safe.

The province says new institutional security officers (ISOs) will begin patrolling the Winnipeg Health Sciences Center starting April 15.

“Institutional security officers bring an additional layer of training and experience to ensure and maintain the safety of staff, patients and visitors at HSC,” he said. Dr. Sean YoungChief Operating Officer, HSC Winnipeg.

“We will continue to conduct due diligence on other safety initiatives as we strive to balance the safety needs of the facility with the need for HSC to be a welcoming space for those seeking care.”

ISOs are trained in public safety and crime prevention, various de-escalation techniques, provincial law enforcement, arrest, search and seizure, use of force and officer safety, record taking, interview basics, court preparation and mental health awareness.

Officers are trained and equipped with pepper gel, but may be armed with other tools as Shared Health evaluates the suitability of other equipment in a health care setting.

The province is looking to fill 105 ISO positions and training will continue over the next three months. Upon completion, officers will be assigned to HSC Winnipeg, St. Boniface Hospital, Victoria General Hospital, Brandon Regional Health Center and Selkirk Mental Health Center will be accommodated.