Published on: 7 September 2022

We will be doing some essential works to repair a section of the heating and hot water pipes at Sunderland Royal Hospital.  

This work will take place from 11am on Friday 16th September until 12 noon on Sunday 18th September 2022. 

During the works, the following areas will have a temporary loss of heating and hot water: 
•    A Block 
•    D Block including Cardiac Centre 
•    F Block 
•    H Block 
•    Pharmacy and CHoICE building 
•    Bede House 
This affects the majority of wards and departments towards the rear of our main hospital block (ED / Maternity / outpatients / C level theatres and DOSA are not affected). A map showing outlining all of the areas affected can be viewed below.

We aim to keep any disruption to an absolute minimum. Please note the following: 
•    Hand washing 
Our Infection Prevention and Control Team has advised that washing hands thoroughly with cold water is fine to maintain hand hygiene.  •    Washing facilities for patients 
Hot water for showers / bathing will only be unavailable for one day (Saturday 17th September). Patients should be advised / supported to have showers / baths before 11am on Friday 16th September where appropriate. Hot water will be available again from midday on Sunday 18th September. 
•    Hot water for essential patient care 
Temporary hot water generators will be installed across a number of affected areas. Matrons will have a list of these areas once they have been installed by CHoICE. 
The hot water generators are for essential use only. They are only to be used by staff and water should not be transferred between wards / departments. Colleagues using the hot water generators must: 
-    Use plastic containers to transport water for essential purposes only.
-    Test the temperature of the water using the thermometers provided. Water should be 40C or less before being used for essential patient care. 
Wards / departments that do not have a temporary hot water generator installed and need hot water for essential patient care should contact the Portering Team on ex 42104 / bleep 51451.

•    Additional blanket supplies 
Due to the temporary loss of heating extra blankets will be made available if needed. These should be requested through the normal linen request process. 

•    Increase in water temperature towards the end of works 
The hot water system will be treated towards the end of the works for infection control purposes. During this time tap water may be hotter than usual, particularly in staff areas. Please be cautious when using hot taps. Signs will be put up as a reminder. 

All affected areas/departments will receive red letter notices. Information to hand out to patients / visitors on the wards during the works will also be provided where necessary. 

Contact details for further information or issues 
If you have any questions or concerns, contact the Estates Help Desk on ext. 49054 or speak to the duty Matron. 

CHoICE will be overseeing and managing the works can be contacted for essential queries/concerns between Friday 16th September and Sunday 18th September, via switchboard. 

Return to News Feed