I am in total agreement with Chris. The word authoritarian also rang loud
warning bells. I would be asking myself whether I would wish to work for
this organisation. An OHN does not need a uniform to demonstrate competence.
----- Original Message -----
From: "Chris Packham" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 02, 2002 9:23 PM
Subject: Re: Uniforms
> I always worry when I hear this type of approach. It tends to suggest that
> they see the OHN as some form of glorified first-aider. It was not so long
> ago that a manager said to me: "Oh! We don't have a real nurse any more."
> Knowing that the new nurse was highly qualified in occupational health, I
> asked him what he meant. His response was: "Well, the old one wore a
> uniform". As far as "recognition" I have yet to meet a good OHN who has
> problems with recognition, merely because they are not wearing a uniform.
In
> fact, my view would be that the uniform can act as a barrier between
worker
> and nurse, since it implies formality, whereas a more informal approach
> always produces better relationships and hence will be more effective.
>
> I also worry about the "authoritarian" bit. Sounds as if they have
problems
> and are asking you to be the unfortunate individual to try to solve them
for
> you and take the flak!!!
>
> I think you need to ensure that your terms of reference, scope of activity
> and limits of authority are very clearly defined.
>
> Regards
> Chris Packham
>
> EnviroDerm Services
> 2 Amery Lodge Farm, North Littleton, Evesham, WR11 8QY
> Tel: +44 (0)1386 832 311
> Fax: +44 (0)1386 830 163
>
> Visit our website - www.enviroderm.co.uk - to download our Technical
> Bulletins free of charge and to see what's new in occupational skin
> management!
>
>
|