Home / Health / Edinburgh Maternity Unit Water Issue Sparks Safety Probe
Edinburgh Maternity Unit Water Issue Sparks Safety Probe
3 Apr
Summary
- Discoloured hot water detected in maternity services at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.
- Neonatal unit temporarily halted external admissions due to the issue.
- Risk to patients and staff assessed as very low by health officials.
Precautionary safety measures are in effect at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh's maternity services due to discoloured hot water. The neonatal unit has temporarily paused external admissions and birthing pools are not in use as investigations into the cause continue.
NHS Lothian reported the discolouration in hot water outlets late on Wednesday afternoon. Cold and drinking water supplies remain unaffected. The health board, along with their estates contractor, is working to resolve the issue swiftly.
Medical and infection prevention teams have assessed the risk to mothers, babies, visitors, and staff as very low. Enhanced infection control measures are in place, and an expert incident management team is overseeing the investigation to ensure a prompt resolution.
