Paladin Security is hiring security officers to patrol and survey hospital properties in the St. John’s area, including entrances and parking lots.

It’s part of ongoing efforts by the health authority to strengthen workplace safety and enhance security at health care centres.

NL Health Services says the security officers play a crucial role in responding to incidents, de-escalating situations and providing customer service.

The health authority says security services have been contracted and are now in place in more than 25 sites across the province.