A petition has been launched today calling on the government to urgently act to protect newborn babies at the Launceston General Hospital.
Labor Leader Rebecca White said mothers and babies are being left to swelter in unacceptable conditions on the maternity ward.
"Hot days are uncomfortable for anyone, but without air conditioning on the maternity ward the health of new mums and babies is being put at risk.
"Babies are unable to regulate their body temperature and need to be in conditions no hotter than 19-20 degrees. Overheated rooms have been associated with a number of adverse health outcomes.
"Newborns are among the most vulnerable patients in hospitals, yet are being provided with the least safe conditions in terms of overheating."
Shadow Minister for Workplace Relations Michelle O'Byrne said the conditions were unsatisfactory for health workers as well.
"Employers have an obligation to manage risk to employees, including those risks associated with working in heat.
"In this instance it not only applies to staff but also, as a health provider, supporting patients whose personal factors increase the need for good climate control."
The Health Services Establishments Code notes that hospitals 'must provide appropriate air temperature control that will provide a safe and comfortable environment for patient, staff and visitors'.
Ms White called on the government to take immediate action.
"This is yet another sign of the shortcuts being taken in Tasmania's public health system, that continue to put at risk the wellbeing of patients and frontline workers."
The petition can be accessed here.
Rebecca White
Labor Leader
Michelle O'Byrne
Shadow Minister for Workplace Relations
