Johannesburg – None of Gauteng’s 37 public hospitals fully comply with occupational health and safety (OSH) legislation, with fire being the biggest risk.
This shocking state of affairs has been made public by Jack Bloom, Democratic Alliance (DA) Gauteng MPL, and Shadow MEC for Health.
“The DA in Gauteng is alarmed that none of Gauteng’s 37 public hospitals are compliant with OSH legislation, with fire being the biggest risk,” Bloom said on Monday, (3 March 2025).
“This was revealed in a presentation last week by the Gauteng Health Department to the Gauteng Legislature’s Oversight Committee On the Premier’s Office and Legislature.”
Bloom said Tshwane District Hospital scored the highest with 95% OHS compliance, followed by George Mukhari Hospital at 92%, and the Steve Biko and Mamelodi hospitals had 91% compliance.
“Sixteen hospitals scored less than 75% OHS compliance, mostly because of missing fire prevention and fire suppression equipment, and lack of fire signage and escape lighting,” said Bloom.
Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Hospital, which suffered a devastating fire five years ago, is only 72% OHS compliant, while Chris Hani Baragwanath, Sebokeng, and Sizwe Tropical hospitals are 71% compliant.
The following hospitals all scored a low of 70% OHS compliance:
- Thelle Mogoerane
- Heidelberg
- Carletonville
- Leratong
- Jubilee
- Pholosong
- Far East Rand
- Kopanong
- Rahima Moosa
- Wits Oral Health
“According to the department, hospital buildings are overcrowded, are not climate resilient, and are deteriorating especially during summer rainy seasons,” Bloom said.
“Furthermore, sustainability is threatened by prohibition notices issued by the Department of Labour and the National Health Department.
“Unsafe buildings pose a serious risk factor to staff and patients, who also endure a poor working environment in crumbling facilities.”
Bloom said the DA Gauteng will press for the best use of the maintenance budget to mitigate the risks.
“This requires the appointment of top-class hospital CEOs and maintenance contracts appointed on merit without corruption,” Bloom said.
