Hospital heat concerns grow as more than 1,000 sign call for extra air conditioning

More than 1,000 islanders have backed a petition calling for improved air conditioning at Jersey’s hospital after patients and families raised concerns about uncomfortable temperatures during the recent heatwave.

The petition was launched following a number of complaints shared on social media, with some describing conditions inside the hospital as unbearably warm.

One woman said temperatures on Robin Ward, where children receive care, had become particularly difficult to cope with.

Health and Care Jersey (HCJ) Medical Director Simon West said teams were continuing to take action to reduce the impact of the extreme heat at the General Hospital.

He said portable air conditioning units had been installed across the hospital, including on Robin Ward, to help keep patients and staff as comfortable as possible.

A replacement chiller unit has also recently been fitted on the hospital roof after the previous system failed, ensuring operating theatres can continue to maintain safe temperatures.

However, Mr West said the hospital’s ageing infrastructure limited the amount of additional cooling equipment that could be used safely at the same time.

“Unfortunately, due to the limitations of our ageing hospital infrastructure, there are restrictions on how much electrical equipment can be safely used in certain areas at any one time,” he said.

“These restrictions limit the extent of additional cooling measures we are able to introduce.”

HCJ said it would review the effects of the extreme heat across its buildings as part of its emergency planning process, helping to improve future responses.

Mr West added that patient safety remained the organisation’s priority and that steps were being taken to avoid risks such as overloading electrical systems or creating fire hazards.

“Wherever possible, patients have been moved to air-conditioned areas,” he said.

“Staff are also providing ice, cold drinks and ice lollies to help patients remain comfortable during periods of extreme heat.”

He apologised for any discomfort caused by the conditions and thanked hospital staff for their efforts.

“Our nursing, medical, estates and support teams continue to go above and beyond to reduce the effects of the heat and provide the best possible care for patients, visitors and service users during these challenging conditions,” he said.