Tragedy averted as autoclave machine explodes at CMCH

Manav Mander

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 17

A major tragedy was averted at the Christian Medical College and Hospital (CMCH) after the autoclave machine at the operation theatre exploded today.

The incident took place around 8:45 am when the staff was preparing the operation theatre (OT).

Sweeper Sunita and four technicians got injured as they were inside the OT when the incident happened.

An autoclave machine is a pressure chamber used for sterilising medical equipment. There was a sudden release of hot water and steam and since the employees were in the OT, hot water splashed on their face and bodies leaving them injured.

According to a source, a loud sound was heard in the corridor after which all employees ran out of the hospital. “

The staff was preparing the OT for the operation at that time,” the source said.

“The exact reason why the autoclave exploded is not known and we are trying to find out the cause. Four hospital employees have sustained injuries because of steam and hot water. All of them are under treatment and are stable,” said Dr William Bhatti, Medical Superintendent at CMCH.