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Cause of Perth Children’s Hospital lead revealed, won’t open this year

Staff WriterWestern Suburbs Weekly

WA Chief Health Officer (CHO) has completed a review into lead in the water at Perth Children’s Hospital and concluded that it was caused by the “dezincification of brass fittings”.

And the Health Minister Roger Cook said work that needs to be undertaken to fix the problem means the hospital will not open this year.

The hospital was originally scheduled for completion in 2015.

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The State Government today accepted the findings, with the report the culmination of a month-long review by the CHO to provide suitable recommendations to solve the problem.

Many of the brass fittings are located within Thermostatic Mixing Valve (TMV) Assembly Boxes, located near drinking water outlets in the hospital.

The CHO’s key recommendation is to remove and replace the TMV Assembly Boxes.

The continuation of current flushing and phosphate treatment programs is also recommended.

The CHO found phosphate treatment has had some effectiveness to date, improving compliance with Australian Drinking Water Guidelines from 74 per cent to 82 per cent.

“Since coming to office, we have acted decisively to resolve the issues relating to lead in the water at the hospital,” Health Minister Roger Cook said.

“We have taken control of the site by granting practical completion, identified the problem and found the main culprit.

“We are moving forward to resolve the issue.

“The Department of Health, the Department of Finance and the Building Commission will develop a plan to remove the TMV Assembly Boxes.

“The State Government thanks the CHO for his comprehensive report, which represents a clear path forward.”

“It is with great disappointment, given the work that now needs to be undertaken, the hospital will not open this year, however, we are on a clear path forward to rectify this issue.”

“I remain committed to restoring the faith of the public in Perth Children’s Hospital, so children and families can rely on the hospital for years to come.”

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