Freshwater supply at Grantham Hospital suspended after being contaminated with seawater

Grantham Hospital said the freshwater supply in the Main Block was contaminated with seawater, and the freshwater supply could be suspended for a few days for repair and disinfection works.

The Hospital announced late Saturday that it filled both fresh and seawater tanks of the Main Block to facilitate the construction works for the redevelopment project in the morning. However, it was found that the seawater overflowed into the freshwater tank through the upper part of the tank, and the freshwater supply was immediately suspended for the Main Block, the ancillary wing of the Main Block, and Block A.

Emergency repair has been arranged, and the Hospital will subsequently disinfect the fresh water tank and arrange testing of water samples to ensure public safety. During the period, distilled water and drinking water will be distributed to staff and patients affected.

It added that the incident mainly affected the inpatient services, while the operating theatres, outpatient clinics, and kitchen services located in other buildings have not been disrupted. The Hospital also conducted inspections of the fresh water tanks in other buildings, and no abnormal conditions were found. 

The Hospital apologized for any inconvenience caused to the patients. It will closely follow up on the repair and disinfection arrangements in the coming days. The Water Supplies Department will deploy a water wagon to provide fresh water to support the Hospital temporarily.