Hospital declares critical incident due to water problems

A hospital has declared a critical incident after an issue with its water supply, which is set to last at least four more days.

Dartford and Gravesham NHS trust said problems with the water in the west block of Darent Valley Hospital, in Dartford, began on 28 April, which "could compromise the quality" of the water, making it unsafe to drink or wash in.

The trust said the supply had been isolated and repairs carried out but detailed test results were not expected until the end of the week.

It apologised for the "disruption and inconvenience" but said the hospital remained open and fully operational.

The trust said affected areas had been signposted, telling people not to use the water, but toilets were fully operational.

A hospital spokesperson said alternative arrangements were in place to provide safe drinking water and handwashing facilities where needed.

Water in the rest of the hospital, including surgical services, intensive care and most outpatient areas, remained safe to use, the trust said.

A hospital spokesperson added: "We understand the frustration and inconvenience this is causing.

"Please be assured that we are treating this with the utmost seriousness and will return the affected areas to normal use once all required assurance checks have been completed.

"The hospital remains open and fully operational."

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