A SMALL fire in the compound of the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH), near the Middle Street entrance, was extinguished mid-morning yesterday, before it became uncontrollable. Workmen were in the process of welding the hinges on one of the gates at that location when the blaze erupted in close proximity to the National TB Programme Unit building.
Head of the TB Programme, Dr. Jeetendra Mohanlall said the place does not store any medical equipment but has computers and furniture used there.
Staff present at the time disclosed that there was a drum near to where the welding was being done and it, apparently, contained a flammable substance which leaked into a nearby drain and ignited.
One of the welders, who did not give his name,siad he felt an extraordinary heat and, upon taking off his helmet, discovered that there were flames next to him.  He and the others quickly took evasive action and began throwing sand and summoned the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) which responded promptly.
Reports said when the fire tender arrived, it was required to go into operation as the blaze that was put out had re-ignited.
The Public Relations Department of the GPH issued a release that said hours after the incident, the Management Unit and the Maintenance Department launched an exercise to clear the area of all unwanted items.

The bottom flat of the TB building is still under construction and, according to Dr. Mohanlall, upon completion, it will be used as a conference facility and also accommodate an office for the Chest Society, a non-governmental organization (NGO).
In addition to the Outpatients Department of the GPH, the Middle Street entrance also leads to other Ministry of Health buildings.
The release stated that the GPH is putting measures in place to ensure that a matter of similar nature does not occur again, and that the safety and well-being of all patients, staff and visitors are guaranteed.