Spill leads to areas isolated at Dunedin Hospital

Statement from Chris Fleming, CEO, Southern DHB

UPDATED 8.15pm: The carpark in the lower basement area has now been cleared and is accessible for use.

One of the lifts in a non-clinical area in the Children’s Pavilion at Dunedin Hospital has been closed following the spillage of Rapicide, a high-level disinfectant and sterilant, around 3.30pm this afternoon.

The substance was disposed of in a hazardous waste area in the lower basement concourse. This led to a release of fumes, causing this area to be isolated as well.

Staff involved were checked by St John as a precaution and have been confirmed as not requiring further treatment.  No patients, members of the public or other staff were exposed to the substance.

Alarms were activated and people asked to avoid the affected areas, and the fire department attended to assist with the management of the substance. Alarms have since been deactivated and as per our protocols, we have isolated the areas until they can be fully cleaned.

We are investigating the incident and Worksafe is being notified. We thank everyone for their understanding during the disruption this afternoon.