Further Balfour water sampling clear of contamination

NHS Orkney has stood down most of the safeguards introduced at The Balfour last week, amid the discovery of potentially dangerous bacteria in its water supply.

The health authority confirmed this Tuesday afternoon that additional water sampling carried out following the initial tests
last week have met the stringent standards it would expect within the hospital.

There will be further sampling carried out throughout the week.

An NHSO spokeswoman said: “Following this, we are in a position, to stand down most of the safeguards introduced last week.

“However, for some patients who may be at a higher risk we will maintain our precautionary measures, patients will be advised of this on a case-by-case basis.

“We continue to ask anyone visiting the Balfour to use alcohol-based hand sanitiser following washing their hands.

“We will remove the remaining safeguards as soon as possible.”