Fire drill tests hospital’s emergency readiness
The drill was unannounced as it was meant to assess the staff’s response to a real-life situation.
The Gauteng Department of Health has recently assured the public that no emergency occurred on May 14 at Steve Biko Academic Hospital.
The fire drill was a routine exercise meant to ensure that the readiness of emergency services personnel remains at the required standard.
Hospital CEO Dr Lehlohonolo Majake said they felt the need to inform the public about what was taking place, as many patients and visitors found themselves puzzled by the activity.
“There were only a few people who were aware that a drill was taking place. We wanted to assess how staff respond in a real-time situation. This helps to strengthen our emergency procedures, including the evacuation plan to identify areas for improvement,” Majake said.
The facility was assessing its level of emergency preparedness in case of incidents like fire, which may require emergency evacuations.
Facilities conduct these drills regularly to ensure staff understand their role in emergencies, as this is important to minimise the impact on the facility, patients and staff.
In November 2024, a fire broke out at the intensive care unit on the seventh floor of the hospital. Three patients – two adults and one child – were evacuated from the ICU on the sixth floor and moved to a ward unaffected by the fire.
There were no fatalities or injuries sustained that day as staff followed evacuation protocols.
Residents of Tshwane are reminded to use the toll-free 107 emergency line to report fires or to call 012 358 6300.
The 107 number can be used to report fire, ambulance, rescues and life-threatening incidents. It is a direct line to Tshwane’s emergency communications centre and can be dialled from any mobile, public or home phone.
Please ensure you give your correct address and phone number for the operator to call back if needed.
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