Veterinary Services: health, safety and wellness for veterinary professionals in disaster preparedness and response

Abstract

National Veterinary Services (NVS) are increasingly called upon to respond to a wide range of disasters. The health, safety and wellness of Veterinary Services personnel are essential to maintaining a capable workforce and sustaining operational and organisational effectiveness. Disasters can generate hazards with potential impacts on health, including physical trauma, environmental exposure and psychological stress. Maintaining health, safety and wellness in the workforce requires leadership and training. Individuals and teams must be well equipped and well practised to address hazards and their mitigation, to prevent injury. Of particular concern for veterinarians are the behavioural health aspects of disasters. This issue has not received the attention required considering the scale and scope of the problem which, according to a recent survey, affects up to 50% of veterinary disaster responders. The symptoms cited in this survey range from anxiety to suicidal thoughts. Accordingly, more and better resources, including protective equipment, guidelines and training, must be developed to strengthen the capabilities of NVS to respond to disasters.