Residential care home staff are among the most at‑risk workers in Australia. Recent figures reveal that 332 residential care workers in Victoria alone have filed injury claims in the past six years. Staff have reported having carving knives held to their throats, being choked unconscious, and coward punched.
Key Risks:
- Physical assault: Staff are frequently assaulted by residents or visitors.
- Verbal abuse and threats: Daily exposure to aggression takes a psychological toll.
- Substance‑related incidents: Children in residential care often use drugs, creating volatile situations.
- Night shifts and isolation: Working alone at night increases vulnerability.
What can be done:
- Personal duress alarms: A GPS‑enabled alarm provides an immediate line to help.
- Crisis management plans: Ensure staff have clear protocols for emergencies.
- De‑escalation training: Equip staff with skills to manage volatile situations.
- Adequate staffing: Understaffing increases risk for everyone.
Discover safety solutions for residential care home staff.
Contact SafeTCard to discuss personal safety solutions for your residential care team.
