The Government has always been clear that we expect the site to be appropriately managed by the Managing Contractor, including with matters relating to workplace safety.
The Royal Hobart Hospital Redevelopment Project Team are considering a request from John Holland Fairbrother to grant Practical Completion of K-Block.
The Project Team is currently assessing that request and taking expert advice regarding remaining building and contractual matters, including the final flushing and treatment of the water supply in line with standard hospital building commissioning practice.
It is paramount that K-Block is safe, fit for purpose and compliant with building and health standards before the delivery of patient services can commence. This is exactly what Tasmanians would expect.
The Government has also been clear that worker safety is our top priority and we expect the building site to be appropriately managed by the Joint Venture, on all matters relating to workplace safety.
Precise timeframes around the commissioning of patient services and wards will be informed by the timing of practical completion, and in consultation with key staff, but ensuring the safety of staff and patients is always our number one priority.
The Government will not compromise or rush this process.
We will continue to take advice from the experts to inform whether we take Practical Completion or further work is required from the builder to address defects, and to inform public updates.
Importantly, throughout the build the project team has routinely taken expert advice to ensure the Government's rights under the contract have been protected on behalf of taxpayers and we make no apologies for doing so.
The delivery of K-Block is much needed and has been a top priority of the Tasmanian Liberal Government.
We are now in the very final stages, but ensuring it is safe, fit-for-purpose and compliant is a responsibility we do not take lightly.
We are working towards the commissioning of patient services as soon as possible.