PSA Sounds Alarm Over "Dangerous Conditions" at Koster Hospital

"Shocking and Dangerous" Conditions Exposed

The Public Servants Association (PSA) has condemned deteriorating conditions at Koster Hospital in the North West province, citing severe non-compliance with occupational health and safety (OHS) regulations.

Labour Relations Officer Kabelo Moalosi detailed the hazards:

• Falling ceilings in multiple wards
• Exposed and worn electrical wiring
• Persistent roof leaks
• Unusable rooms due to safety risks

"These conditions pose direct danger to patients and staff," Moalosi stated, noting that nurses must work "in environments where their safety isn’t guaranteed."

Impact on Patients and Staff

The PSA warns that the infrastructure crisis is crippling service delivery:

1. Staff Morale: Unsafe conditions lead to employee dissatisfaction and compromised care quality.
2. Patient Access: With Rustenburg and other nearest hospitals 70km away, closures would disproportionately affect rural communities.
3. Electrical Hazards: Live wires risk electrocution in critical care areas.

"Why must we wait for national television exposure to address basic safety issues?" Moalosi questioned, criticizing the Department of Health and Labour inspectors for failing to act.

PSA’s Demands and Ongoing Engagement

The association has escalated concerns through:

• OHS committees (where unions hold seats)
• Direct engagement with the NW Health Department
• Planned MEC visit to assess the facility

Proposed Solutions:

• Immediate condemnation of unsafe rooms
• Emergency budget prioritization for repairs under PFMA
• Alternative temporary facilities to avoid service disruptions

"We won’t rush to close the hospital," Moalosi clarified, "but we demand urgent risk assessments and action."

Accountability Questions

The PSA highlights systemic failures:

• Inspectorate Inaction: No compliance notices issued despite visible hazards.
• Delayed Maintenance: Leaks and electrical issues reportedly ignored for months.

The NW Health Department has yet to confirm timelines for repairs or the MEC’s inspection date.