THHS CEO Kieran Keyes on Code Yellow flood alert at TUH

Townsville Hospital says it is too early to put a dollar figure on damage caused after a burst pipe triggered a Code Yellow flood alert on Friday.

Townsville University Hospital: Picture: Evan Morgan

Townsville University Hospital says it is too early to put a dollar figure on damage caused after a burst pipe triggered a Code Yellow flood alert on Friday.

Townsville Hospital and Health Service chief executive Kieran Keyes said the TUH water leak – which one person claimed resembled a “waterfall” that caused ceilings to give way – effected several floors of the main clinical building.

A THHS spokesman said the cause of the leak, that resulted in significant flooding, impacting some outpatient areas and staff offices, was yet to be determined, as was the full extent of the damage, including the anticipated cost.

Mr Keyes praised the building, engineering and maintenance services teams for their immediate response and “urgent repairs to isolate the leak and clear the water”.

“Despite the severity of the leak, the swift response ensured that all patients and staff remained safe during this period.”

Townsville Hospital and Health Service chief executive Kieran Keyes. Picture: Evan Morgan

He said the source of the leak was a burst chilled water pipe, which resulted in the release of water and disruption to air-conditioning in parts of the facility.

“The cause of the water pipe failure is still being investigated.”

Mr Keyes said the majority of the hospital’s air-conditioning capacity was returned to normal on Friday, with the remainder of chilled water supplies and air-conditioning systems back online by Monday.

“All areas of the hospital that were impacted by the leak have returned to normal business; however, some office spaces and outpatient areas remain closed while repairs continue,” he said.

“These include a security office and obstetrics and gynaecology offices on the ground level.”

Mr Keyes said several surgical investigations rooms on level 2 were undergoing repairs but this was not effecting service delivery.

“Small sections of flooring in the public corridor and lift lobby on level two are still undergoing repairs but remain operational,” he said.

“Minor repairs are also being conducted to replace ceiling tiles in sections of the basement, ground floor and first level, however, these areas remain open and safe in the meantime.”

Mr Keyes said treatment teams had worked closely with patients whose care was impacted by the incident, prioritising rescheduling appointments as soon as possible.

“We appreciate the understanding and patience of our patients, staff, and the public.”

Originally published as THHS CEO Kieran Keyes on Code Yellow flood alert at TUH