The Nova Scotia government has signed a protocol with labour unions it says will allow health care workers to work in different jurisdictions, including those out of province, in times of emergency.

Health Minister Maureen MacDonald says the Good Neighbours Protocol will enable doctors, nurses and other health professionals to work voluntarily while the terms of their pay and their jobs are protected.

As an example, MacDonald says a nurse employed with the Capital Health District in Halifax would be able to work in Cape Breton if there is enough strain on the system there.

The protocol also ensures there will be no financial loss or out-of-pocket expense to a participating employee.

Workers will also be protected by their usual employer in the event of injury by the provisions of the province's workers' compensation board.

Nova Scotia Nurses Union president Janet Hazelton says she welcomes the initiative, noting it sets clear rules and protections for workers.