Vigilance of PSW responsibilities required

Posted By LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Posted 5 months ago

Further wind turbine health impacts study needed

Re: "Incredulity raised by wind farm concerns", Aug. 13, 2009

The writer sounds convinced of the immediate need for a comprehensive epidemiological study on the impacts of industrial wind turbines, for the writer states, "As to health studies: yes, studies should be done".

In giving her reasons why some people might speak out against the proposed industrial wind turbines, I believe the writer has completely misunderstood the seriousness of the impacts of low frequency noise emitted by industrial wind turbines on humans when the writer implies industrial wind turbines do little more than "...cause a hum...".

The writer mentions she "...lived next to several airports...". Unlike most airports, where arrivals and departures do not take place around the clock, presuming the wind speed falls within a certain range, the proposed industrial wind turbines -- once commissioned -- would operate 24-hours a day.

The writer states certain health symptoms "...may be attributed to a loss of sleep". I would recommend the writer (and other interested parties) take time to read, "Sleep disturbance and wind turbine noise", a report by Dr. C. Hanning (June 2009).

On page 17 of his report, Dr. Hanning states, "In my expert opinion, from my knowledge of sleep physiology and a review of the available

research, I have no doubt that wind turbine noise emissions cause sleep disturbance and ill health." He also states, "The only mitigation of sleep disturbance from industrial wind turbine noise is a setback of at least 1.5 km and probably greater."

Let's hope the provincial government will move quickly to have a comprehensive epidemiological study on the impacts of industrial wind turbines conducted prior to having any other industrial wind turbines installed anywhere in Ontario.

I guess that makes me a member of Ann Barlow's NIABYs ("Wind farm NIABYism: Not In Anyone's Back Yard", Aug. 14).

Debbie Lynch Norwood

I'm writing in response to a couple of letters printed in your paper. One, "Some PSWs now dispensing medication", Aug. 11, stated the seriousness of Personal Support Workers (PSWs) who have had to dispense medication and another, "PSWs do not dispense medication", Aug. 19, denying concerns and worried that potential people will be lost because of fear-mongering.

Unfortunately, the first letter is correct in stating PSWs are giving out medication without the appropriate training to so so. PSWs are not supposed to do it but in facilities that are not governed by the same very strong laws of long term care facilities, i. e. nursing homes that can order their staff to do many inappropriate jobs -- some well above their designation and some far below. These same PSWs are not protected by a union and are afraid to refuse for fear they will lose their jobs.

Having said that, I understand the concern about how people may react to hearing that these things happen. The only way we can change things and improve the care for our seniors is to become proactive in our attitude on what is and is not appropriate. It is not all right to exploit staff by giving them jobs, without the proper knowledge, that are dangerous. Our schools should be emphasizing these things to students so that they are aware before they enter the workforce.

I have worked in the home care field and in long term care for close to 30 years. I love the interaction I have with the residents and the knowledge I'm making a difference and am needed. I do not have any training in the dispensing of drugs and know mistakes can be made at every level.

Until employers accept that they are responsible for the safety of the people in their care and start hiring, and paying, the registered staff who are, we should all be vigilant and speak out against these practices.

Irene Rhines, PSW RR#1 Baltimore

Another nomination

The federal Liberals are looking for a candidate to represent Northumberland- Quinte West. Although three wonderful candidates have stepped forward, I suggest that a true gem has been overlooked -- Dave Sommerville.

As a member of parliament for this riding, he would have all the credentials necessary to shine in the House of Commons:

* the ability to size up an opposition member, knowing at an instant what his/her true agenda might be, and what sort of protective gear he/she should wear;

* an excellent grasp of current issues, whether it be the flap over wind turbines, main street parking in front of the store, or the price point for the new stock of Olympic hockey jerseys; and

* coolness under fire and grace under pressure, as witnessed at many a sidewalk sale in August when customers ask if there is any wiggle room on 80% off -- usually after two days of standing in the hot sun.

And, as it is the Liberal party, Dave is a cinch with his command of the French language. I can't count on both hands how many times I've heard him say "Pardon my French".

Don Horne Whitby