News Release

April 9, 2010

CMH to switch backup generator Saturday, leading to interruptions of non-essential power

Cambridge Memorial Hospital will be connecting to a new emergency backup generator on Saturday. There will be frequent power interruptions throughout the day, beginning at 7:30 a.m. and lasting until about 4:30 p.m.

While essential services will be maintained during this installation, there will be a hospital-wide interruption at 3:30 p.m. when the utility power is cut to test the generator power. This switchover to generator power is expected to cause a 15-second delay.

The cost of the new generator is $1 million and replaces a unit that was installed at CMH back in 1976. Funding for the new one comes from the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care through its Health Infrastructure Renewal Fund (HIRF). The HIRF program was established in 1999 to help healthcare facilities address renewal needs on a priority basis. While more than 30 years old, the old generator will remain on site and serve as a second backup unit.

Cambridge Memorial Hospital staff, physicians and volunteers are prepared for Saturday’s power interruptions and will continue to provide exceptional patient care. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Date: Saturday, April 10, 2010
Time: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.


Need to Know:

• Power interruptions will be announced over the PA system prior to each outage
• There will always be elevator service (except for the 15-second outage at 3:30 p.m.)
• All stairwells equipped with essential power for emergency lighting (many with outside windows providing natural light)
• Additional staff on site to provide assistance to patients, visitors, staff and physicians
• There are no changes to regular visiting hours (2-8 p.m.)
• Tim Horton’s and the Gift Shop will be open for regular business