The Nova Scotia Nurses Union says formal plans are needed for workers during major weather events.

The union says many nurses had to stay for up to three days during last weekend’s snow storm because others couldn’t get to work.

President Janet Hazelton says they want to have conversations with Nova Scotia Health.

“What are we doing about rest breaks and food? Also, let’s talk about how we can safely transport nurses to and from work. If nurses agree to come in during a storm, what are reasonable expectations?” asks Hazelton.

In a statement to our newsroom, a spokesperson for Nova Scotia Health says staff who were willing and able to work extended shifts were offered accommodations at the hospital and food.

They say some dedicated staff even used snowshoes and sleds to come in and help check on patients, serve meals and shovel snow.

Hazelton thanks those who braved the storm to get to their patients, but she doesn’t want them working 72-hour shifts.