Nearly three years ago, in December 2022, a gas tanker exploded in Plantation, near the Tambo Memorial Hospital, testing the preparedness of emergency services and healthcare facilities across the region.

The hospital was thrust into the heart of the disaster, facing a sudden mass-casualty event while tragically losing 12 of its nurses and sustaining extensive structural damage.

According to hospital spokesperson Zoliswa Nzeku, the facility was well-prepared prior to the disaster.
“Disasters often occur without warning. At the time, the Tambo Memorial Hospital was well-prepared through its disaster management plan and internal crisis management strategy.
“Each department had approved evacuation plans activated during the incident, allowing staff to move safely to designated assembly points.”

Systems that worked under pressure
Nzeku said several protocols proved crucial during the sudden influx of patients.
“The emergency department implemented structured triage procedures, while strong co-ordination with EMS, fire and rescue and other external partners ensured seamless patient management.

“Additional staff were quickly mobilised through a call-out system, and essential emergency supplies and equipment were immediately available,” she said, adding that the security and support services were also critical.
“Security teams helped manage access points and crowd control, while psychosocial services were immediately activated to assist affected staff.
“A dedicated crisis centre was established to co-ordinate all response efforts,” the spokesperson said.
The blast caused structural damage and financial impact.

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Lessons learnt and gaps addressed
In a post-incident review, she acknowledged areas for improvement.
“Overcrowding during disasters has been addressed by implementing a step-down facility to support the emergency department.

“Staff shortages have been resolved through additional personnel deployment, and support for affected staff has been strengthened with structured debriefings and long-term counselling services. Security protocols have also been enhanced, and perimeter management improved,” she said.

On maintaining readiness for future emergencies, the spokesperson said, “We do routine walkabouts and regular equipment checks to ensure operational resilience. Communication and alert systems have been upgraded, and infrastructure improvements, including safer evacuation routes and better traffic management, have been implemented.

“Staff training has been expanded to include basic firefighting skills, evacuation procedures and first aid knowledge.”

She said that maintaining a comprehensive, up-to-date all-hazards disaster plan is essential.
“Preparedness is not optional. Regular training, clear protocols and robust co-ordination with external partners are key to saving lives when disaster strikes.”

Despite the extensive damage and temporary inability to receive patients, the spokesperson affirmed that the hospital had emerged stronger.
“We have learnt from this tragedy to better safeguard staff and the community in future emergencies.”

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