Health Dept: Preventative measures taken to avoid fire-related incidents at SGH

KUCHING (Oct 6): Preventative measures are being taken so as not to repeat the recent fire-related incidents at Sarawak General Hospital (SGH), said a statement from the State Health Department (JKNS).

It added that JKNS always strive to ensure the safety of patients, visitors, and staff members of health facilities at all times.

“(The preventatives measures include) a comprehensive inspection of the electrical wiring system, as well as the maintenance of the Air Handling Unit (AHU) system at SGH, ensuring that all components can function properly,” read the recent statement.

It was issued in response to the two incidents that caused the evacuation of patients and staff members at SGH on Oct 1.

The statement said the first incident occurred at 1pm, where smoke was detected in the specialist clinic block.

“The results of the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) investigation confirmed that there was no fire, but instead the smoke was caused by the AHU due to a failure of a rubber component inside,” it said.

It added that the second incident occurred on the same day at 4.50pm, caused by a small spark involving an air conditioning unit in the Urology Ward.

JKNS said the incident was fully controlled using fire extinguishers in the ward, with the investigation confirming that the cause of the incident was due to a problem with the electrical wiring in the air conditioning unit.

Moreover, they expressed their appreciation and gratitude to the Bomba personnel for their cooperation in working to investigate the incidents.