The Free State Department of Health has taken steps in transforming the Freedom Square Clinic in Bloemfontein from a “health hazard” into a reputable health service provider after it was flooded by raw sewage spillages for two weeks.
Fed up community members resorted to effecting the closing of the facility after authorities did not respond, despite the spillages being reported several times.
The premises of the clinic were flooded with dirty water from sewage spills, hampering clinic staff’s execution of their duties.
Mondli Mvambi, spokesperson for the department, said remedial action was being undertaken in the clearing of spillages on the premises.
This action includes compliance to basic regulations.
An Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) inspection team found the facility to be non-compliant to the OHS Act and regulations following a visit to the clinic on 27 March.
The Department of Labour issued a prohibition notice after uncovering that various sections were being transgressed.
The possibility of these transgressions existing became known after community members took action on 23 March due to spillages that had emanated from blocked pipes and manholes. The provision of health services had become severely affected due to a lingering unpleasant smell, among other difficulties.
On the day that the community intervened, clinic staff abandoned their duties and remained outside the premises of the clinic, situated opposite the Toka Primary School in ward 11 of the Mangaung Metro Municipality.
Community members cried foul and accused the department of violating OHS practices and the Patient Rights Charter.
According to the charter patients have the right to a healthy and safe environment, ensuring their physical and mental health or well-being.
Some clinic staff lament they are overwhelmed with the workload due to staff shortages and the large number of patients. Apart from patients in Freedom Square, the clinic also assists those from Peter Swart and phase 4 to 10.
