A major investigation has been launched following the failure to permanently resolve dangerous lead contamination in drinking water outlets at Perth Children's Hospital (PCH). The issue, which has persisted for years, has prompted serious concerns from health authorities and the state government.
Persistent Failures Trigger Scrutiny
The investigation, ordered by the Director General of Health, Dr. David Russell-Weisz, will be conducted by the Department of Health. It comes after repeated attempts to fix the problem have proven unsuccessful. The core issue involves lead leaching from brass fittings in specific water outlets, including those in clinical areas.
Despite previous remediation efforts, follow-up testing has continued to detect elevated lead levels. A spokesperson for the Child and Adolescent Health Service confirmed the investigation aims to determine why the problem persists and to identify a definitive, long-term solution. The safety of patients, families, and staff remains the paramount concern.
Timeline of a Lingering Problem
The lead issue at the $1.2 billion hospital is not new. Problems were first identified before the hospital's official opening in 2018. Initial testing revealed lead levels in some taps exceeded the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.
Subsequent remediation work was undertaken, involving the replacement of thousands of fittings. However, the solution has not been permanent. The most recent round of testing, conducted as part of an ongoing monitoring program, again found unacceptable lead levels in a number of outlets. This has led to the immediate shutdown of affected taps and bubblers, with alternative water supplies provided.
The investigation will scrutinise the entire history of the issue, from the initial installation and material choices to every remediation attempt made to date.
Health Risks and Government Response
Lead exposure poses a significant health risk, especially to young children. It can affect neurological development and cause cognitive deficits. While the hospital asserts that the risk from short-term exposure via drinking water is low, the ongoing nature of the problem is unacceptable for a state-of-the-art paediatric facility.
Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson has expressed her frustration, demanding answers and a permanent fix. The government is under pressure to ensure the hospital, a critical piece of infrastructure for Western Australian families, is completely safe.
The investigation's terms of reference and timeline are currently being finalised. Its findings will be crucial in restoring public confidence and ensuring the water supply at Perth Children's Hospital meets the highest safety standards.
