North West Health Department Defends Koster Hospital Safety Amid PSA Allegations

The North West Health Department has responded to claims from the Public Servants Association (PSA) regarding safety concerns at Koster Hospital, asserting that the facility holds valid occupational health and safety (OHS) certification.

Spokesperson Tebogo Lekgethwane emphasized that the hospital was the first in the province to receive OHS certification, while acknowledging ongoing infrastructure challenges, including peeling walls, aging roofs, and delayed renovations.

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Budget Reallocation and Delays

Lekgethwane attributed the postponement of critical repairs to community protests and budget changes:

• Lost Funding: R120 million originally allocated for 2023/24 refurbishment redirected after protests demanding a new hospital.
• New Timeline: Phase 1 renovations now planned for late 2025/26 financial year.
• Consultant Appointed: Assessment completed, priority areas identified for repairs.

"We couldn’t let funds lapse to Treasury," Lekgethwane said, citing legal obligations to avoid underspending.

Certification vs. Reality

The department distinguished between compliance and ideal conditions:

• Certification: Meets minimum requirements for occupancy as per Labour Department inspections.
• Admitted Deficiencies: "We agree the roof needs replacement, but day-to-day maintenance continues."

This contrasts with the PSA’s reports of active hazards, including exposed wiring and falling ceilings.

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PSA vs. Department: Clashing Narratives

PSA ClaimsDepartment ResponseFalling ceilings pose immediate dangerOHS certification obtainedNo inspectorate action takenLabour Department conducted inspectionsUrgent repairs neededRefurbishment planned for 2025/26

Lekgethwane accused the PSA of omitting context, including community protests that caused delays.

What’s Next

• MEC Visit: Planned but date unconfirmed
• Community Engagement: Ongoing to prevent further disruptions
• Media Scrutiny: Verification of Labour Department compliance findings

"We’re not waiting for collapse to act," Lekgethwane insisted, though interim safety measures for staff and patients remain unclear.

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