These are people who are devoted to helping others. They work long shifts at unsocial hours as they try to help strangers through tough times.

What they should never have to face is abuse, violence and threats and yet, for a growing number of hospital staff, that's becoming the norm.

On Tuesday, former health and police minister Peter Anderson delivered his interim report into hospital safety with 48 recommendations. 

Recently, staff said violent incidents in Wagga Base Hospital’s emergency department are both an almost-daily occurrence and a growing problem. 

Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research data indicates assaults that occur on public and private hospital premises, not necessarily in the wards or on staff, are increasing.

Currently, at Wagga Base Hospital, emergency department staff carry personal safety alarm systems which link to an immediate security response and other measures include CCTV, appropriate lighting and signage and a trained ‘Code Black’ response team. 

One recommendation was for further examination of any need for security staff to carry batons and handcuffs. Although a hospital can be a volatile environment, it is a haven for those seeking help. 

It is not a jail. 

Mental health and drug and alcohol presentations, which can manifest in psychosis and aggression, pose a threat to staff and patients alike, but the threat should be met with higher staffing numbers. 

Security guards walking around with batons and cuffs conjures up images of prison cells and a tyrannical institution which in turn could put people off from seeking the help they need. 

The interim report is a great first step in acknowledging the extra strain put upon our hospitals, both public and private, but actions need to be taken to ensure staff can perform their duties to the best of their ability.