September 15, 2021
Dear colleagues,
On behalf of our staff, students, volunteers, clients and their families, please join me in honouring our Environmental Services staff during International Environmental Services Week (September 13-20). This week reminds us of the importance of these hard-working healthcare professionals, composed of housekeeping aides, janitors, porters, linen aide/porters and mail attendants. It is a week dedicated to recognizing the efforts of these dedicated individuals who ensure safe, comfortable and clean facilities all year long. Their knowledge and skill not only keep health care facilities running smoothly, but they help support positive patient outcomes.
When environmental services run smoothly, medical concerns can be the focus of our medical professionals. That’s why Environmental Services staff are vital to the operation of any healthcare facility. They are the frontline defense against serious infections throughout a facility. The position can be physically demanding and requires attention to detail, as well.
During the global pandemic, we have seen these unsung heroes on the front lines keep our facilities clean and safe for all those on our campus. These dedicated staff members have gone above and beyond, like so many of their colleagues, during the challenges of COVID. Environmental Services Week is an opportunity for us to reflect on and appreciate the commitment of these professionals and acknowledge their contributions at Baycrest.
We would like to thank the hard-working Environmental Services staff for all that they do.
Scott Ovenden
Executive Vice President, Clinical Programs