Hugh Henry announced the extra funding

NHS professionals and trade unions will look at options including warning card schemes and the withdrawal of treatment in extreme circumstances.

The projects sharing the funding include a publicity and information campaign in Tayside and Fife, personal attack alarm systems for lone workers in Dumfries and Galloway and staff training in 'de-escalation' techniques at the State Hospital at Carstairs.

Mr Henry said the Scottish Executive would not stand back and see health workers abused.

"I don't want to see NHS hospitals turned into fortresses.

We are committed to doing everything we can to allow health staff to carry out their daily work in a safe environment

Hugh Henry Deputy Health Minister

"But neither can we tolerate the 'free for all' mentality of the tiny minority of people who can make life a misery for fellow patients and staff," he said.

Last year the executive published guidance on tackling harassment of NHS staff.

"We are committed to doing everything we can to allow health staff to carry out their daily work in a safe environment," said Mr Henry.

"Those who abuse them will simply not be tolerated.

"I believe today's announcement and the further proposals expected by the summer will be a very significant step forward for NHS staff."

A Health at Work Guideline Development Group, featuring health workers and unions, has also been set up to look at effective ways of dealing with violent patients.

It will look at a number of possible steps, some of which are already in place elsewhere in the UK.

"Active consideration is being given to warnings for troublesome patients and, in extreme circumstances, the banning of violent patients from hospitals and GP surgeries," added Mr Henry.

"We expect proposals from the group to be put out for consultation by the summer."