Media release 22 August 2018 | Recently we released information through an OIA request to the media regarding the remediation works required on CMDHB hospital buildings.
The safety of patients, staff and visitors is paramount and we have been assured by our infection specialists that the presence of fungal growth presents no safety risk. This is because a physical barrier will exist between the remediation work and patient areas and the work area is not open to ventilation or near an air intake, as has been correctly reported. The work and procedures will be checked off by the infection control team before each stage proceeds.
The issues with the buildings are being actively monitored and plans are underway to address these issues as soon as possible. The DHB has increased expenditure on additional maintenance works to check and repair cladding with additional fixtures over the past 12 months while negotiation on full repair works are underway.
We must, however, undertake any remedial action whilst ensuring that the hospital continues to function at full capacity, to meet the immediate and acute health needs of our community.
Due to ongoing contractual obligations Counties Manukau Health cannot comment any further, however we reiterate our commitment to the health and safety of all patients, public and staff in our hospitals.
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