The nurses and general workers at Middelburg Provincial Hospital downed tools after an intruder tried to stab a matron.
Read: Doctor assaulted
The protest was prompted by a string of complaints the staff have raised with the hospital. Last year a nurse was assaulted, a few years ago two nurses were also stabbed and a doctor stabbed to death.
Read: New hospital for Middelburg
The workers are demanding the hospital management to intensify the security. One employee, who does not want to be named, said staff members feel unsafe.
The demonstration started as employees are demanding to be addressed by provincial management and not local or district management.
Read: Murdered man found outside hospital
They feel as though the hospital management is “not taking their grievances seriously.” The protesters said they will not return to work until the province addresses their demands.
Some staff members have reported for duty and ambulances are operating as usual.
Read: Criminals invade hospital
According to Middelburg Hospital board member Robert Xaba, the hospital had 12 security officers and management agreed to employ five more officers.
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