Patients diverted as Brighton A&E affected by chemical leak

Doctors at Brighton’s Accident and Emergency Department are having to divert some patients to other hospitals after a chemical leak in an air conditioning unit.

But the Royal Sussex County Hospital said that A&E was still open and that no other ward or department was affected.

The leak happened in an area used for resuscitating patients at about noon today (Tuesday 14 May).

Some patients had to be moved and others who would be treated in the affected area are being treated near by.

The leak is being cleared and the air conditioning repaired. While the hospital was unable to say exactly when things would return to normal, it was looking at hours rather than days.

The hospital is run by Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust. A spokesman said: “A&E remains open and working as normal.

“Part of the area has had to be closed off and a few patients have been sent to neighbouring trusts and the Princess Royal Hospital (in Haywards Heath).”

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: “Scheduled works in a plant room caused a significant leak which resulted in flooding.

“Three fire engines, from Hove and Preston Circus Community Fire Stations, were sent to the hospital along with the Technical Rescue Unit from Lewes, at lunchtime.

“Firefighters assisted with pumping water from the Emergency Department.

“Relief crews from Roedean and Hove were also mobilised to the incident.”

At 5pm the Fire Service said: “Firefighters remained at the hospital all afternoon and are currently still there.”