A section of the rehabilitation hospital in Newfoundland and Labrador is facing recurring issues with its hydronic heating system, leading to significant damage that is expected to persist, according to an internal memo. The briefing note, obtained by CBC News through access to information, highlights the potential risk to over $1.2 million worth of prosthetics and orthotics equipment and supplies at the Dr. L.A. Miller Centre due to infrastructure problems.
The memo, prepared for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services officials in June, indicates that repairing the system is both expensive and unsustainable in the long run. The aging system is prone to further failures, posing challenges to the rehabilitation technology department housed in the oldest part of the Miller Centre on Forest Road in St. John’s, built in 1941.
The department, with a staff of 25, serves over 500 clients annually by producing, adjusting, and fixing orthotic and prosthetic devices. It also customizes seating systems for individuals with complex medical conditions. The continuous system failures have left the department in disrepair for the past one to two years, affecting patient care significantly.
Infrastructure issues have disrupted clinical services for extended periods, exposing staff to unpleasant odors, high heat, and excessive moisture, with temperatures reaching over 28 degrees. The document also discloses the government’s previous intention to relocate the Miller Centre but abandoned the plan due to cost concerns earlier this year.
Repairs are challenging as the piping is concealed under concrete floors and asbestos-containing plaster, necessitating intricate containment and abatement procedures. The hydronic heating system not only heats inpatient areas on upper floors but also damages offices in different sections of the building, requiring space adjustments for staff.
Despite these challenges, the Miller Centre has not been earmarked for renovations in government announcements or by the health infrastructure committee. The working conditions are reported to cause stress among staff, hindering recruitment and retention efforts. Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services confirmed that repairs are ongoing, with an engineering firm engaged to assess the system.
Efforts are underway to enhance the area through the capital renewal program, prioritizing projects based on urgency, criticality, safety, and operational impact. The rehab technology department has been relocated temporarily, with patients informed of any appointment changes.