Three lifts at Colonial War Memorial Hospital have been officially commissioned, marking a major improvement in patient and public access within the country’s largest healthcare facility.
While commissioning the lifts, Minister for Health, Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu highlighted that the lifts, which cost more than $800,000 to install, are now fully operational, with two servicing the Lancaster Wing and one at the Children’s Hospital.
He says that a fourth lift, designated for food ration services, is still under development due to ongoing structural work required before installation can proceed.
The Minister also acknowledged that the new lifts are larger and more spacious than the previous ones.
He says the replacement was necessary given the age of the previous lift systems, adding that this is the first time the Children’s Ward lift has been replaced since it was installed in 2000, while the Lancaster Wing lifts were last replaced in 2009.
However, concerns were also raised about how improper use of lifts has contributed to past service disruptions.
Dr Lalabalavu says engineers have noted that misuse, such as overcrowding, improper handling of hospital beds, and individuals leaning against lift walls, can affect the system’s sensitivity and operation.
He says these lifts are very sensitive, and when they are not used properly, it disrupts how they function, and engineers then have to return to restore operations.
He adds that such issues have been a key factor behind periods when lifts at the hospital were out of service.
Dr Lalabalavu says that while there had been considerations in the past to assign dedicated personnel to monitor lift usage, the responsibility ultimately lies with staff and the public.
He hopes that it does not reach a stage where someone has to be hired just to oversee lift use.
Dr Lalabalavu expressed gratitude to the Fijian Government for funding the procurement of the four lifts, noting that the upgrades will significantly ease movement for patients, staff, and visitors.
He also acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the project, thanking hospital management and engineers for completing the long-awaited upgrade.
