DailySun
Johannesburg – Dr. Joe Phaahla, the Deputy Minister of Health, has reassured the public that services at Tembisa Provincial Tertiary Hospital will remain operational despite a second fire incident in the main Outpatient department.
The City of Ekurhuleni’s Fire Department swiftly responded to the fire, successfully extinguishing it on Wednesday morning (23 April 2025). By approximately 08:00, they had cleared smoke from the main Outpatient department area using Positive Pressure Ventilation techniques.
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It is important to mention that the main Outpatient department had been sealed off and the power supply cut after the first fire incident that took place on Saturday afternoon (19 April 2025). As a result, the department was not operational, and there were no patients in the vicinity when this latest fire occurred.
Regrettably, smoke from the main Outpatient department spread to adjacent areas, affecting the Eye Clinic and Pharmacy.
This incident has also impacted previously cleared areas following the Saturday fire, including the Surgical Outpatient Department, Medical Outpatient Department, Family Medicine, and the administrative block, which had been designated as an alternative Accident and Emergency service area.
Dr. Phaahla explained that these areas are currently undergoing a re-clearing process, which will involve air quality assessments and the issuance of new electrical Certificates of Compliance (COC) to prepare them for full functionality.
Investigations into the causes of both the Outpatient department and Accident and Emergency Unit fire incidents are ongoing, with the involvement of various law enforcement teams and regulatory bodies.
“The department urges everyone to remain calm and patient during this time,” Dr. Phaahla stated.
“At present, all patients receiving care at the hospital are safe.”
“A business continuity plan has been put in place to ensure the department can continue to offer health services.”
“Measures have been implemented to guarantee all patients can access essential healthcare services with minimal disruption.”
While the hospital remains on ambulance diversion for emergencies, walk-in patients may still be accommodated.
Patients are encouraged to utilize their local clinics for healthcare needs and visit the hospital only if referred.
Critical services continue in designated areas or departments of the hospital.
A help desk has been established to provide information and assistance to patients and members of the public on-site.
Family members of patients admitted to the hospital may visit during regular visiting hours from 14:00 to 16:00 via gate 4.
The Deputy Minister has requested various organizations interested in conducting oversight visits at Tembisa Provincial Tertiary Hospital to allow investigators and relevant governance structures to carry out their duties as per their mandate.
He assured that regular updates will be communicated through public platforms and existing governance structures.
