Operating theatres have been closed because of flooding for the second time in three months. Photo: Supplied
The emergency department at the $2 billion new Fiona Stanley Hospital is set to be partially closed this weekend after a flooding incident disrupted services on Thursday.
The department is due to provide reduced services from 6pm Saturday to about midday Sunday while a water leak is fixed.
“Ambulance and maternity patients will be diverted to other hospitals from 6pm Saturday to approximately 11am Sunday,” said a hospital spokesperson.
“Fiona Stanley Hospital ED will be open throughout this weekend for walk-in patients.”
Flooding at the new hospital happened for the second time in less than three months on Thursday, prompting ambulances to be diverted and operating theatres closed.
A main pipe that supplied ward towers burst in April, affecting access to hot water and the air conditioning system.
WA Health Department Acting Director General Professor Bryant Stokes said he was “very concerned” about the water incidents, possibly the result of faulty bellows.
“It is a worrying issue,” Dr Stokes said.
“We just need to get to the bottom of it.”
In April, Health Minister Kim Hames said on average more than 300 patients presented to the hospital’s emergency department every day.
Ambulances and maternity patients will be diverted to other hospitals while works are conducted, putting greater strain on those health facilities.
“They will be able to cope,” Dr Stokes said.
Dr Stokes also said heating and airconditioning services will be disrupted while the maintenance work is conducted.