07:42 am, Wednesday 27 January, 2010

The staff at a Newcastle medical records storage facility have balked at the idea of returning to work because of the site’s high mould spore levels.

According to the Health Services Union, a test was recently conducted at the Cardiff facility. The testing has revealed mould spore levels 100-times that of tests undertaken almost a year ago.

Last year, 30 John Hunter Hospital refused to work after claiming the  Cardiff site’s medical records had caused breathing problems and skin rashes.

Union organiser Jim Arneman says Hunter New England Health has recommended relocating the staff to assuage their concerns.

“The IRC [Industrial Relations Commission] strong recommendation was that as little as possible work be done at that site so some of the scanning that was occurring there not occur until the risk is controlled,” he said.

“They have also stated they recommend that our members not be compelled to work at that site.

“We’re happy with that, so until such time it can be declared safe, our members won’t be working there.”

Report by Julia Alder - Do you have an OHS News Story - Let us know