Council to examine need for new paramedic HQ in Barrhaven

Ottawa councillors will be faced with a decision on the future of a new paramedics headquarters after staff say the current location is unable to safely support operational needs.

In a report to the city’s Finance and Corporate Services Committee, staff say the current headquarters located at 2465 Don Reid Dr. in the Heron Gate neighbourhood is operating above capacity as the service grows to meet the community’s needs.

The current headquarters was built in 2005 with the capacity for 330 staff and 80 ambulances and emergency response vehicles. At present, there are 900 staff and 160 vehicles operating out of the centre.

“Currently, 900 staff can no longer operate safely and effectively in the facility,” the report states. “A work environment that is free of hazards and is accessible is a crucial component of business continuity, supports staff health and safety, minimizes operational risk and supports service delivery resilience.”

The increase in service is related to both population increases in the city over the past two decades as well as an expanded scope of practice for paramedics.

“The paramedic scope of practice has expanded from providing basic urgent and emergent care to include health promotion, illness prevention, chronic disease management, and community care,” the report says.

There are 19 paramedic posts across the city where paramedics can rest and eat meals, but all shifts begin at the headquarters.

The property under consideration for a new headquarters is 4061 Strandherd Dr., located by Highway 416 in Barrhaven. The staff report says this location will give better access to Ottawa’s west and south ends.

According to the report, the city has already approved $4 million for the early stages of the project, with total costs have yet to be determined.