Cause of cardiac device issue at New Brighton Hot Pools identified as external

Christchurch City Council has advised that extensive investigations at He Puna Taimoana (the modern name given to the hot pools in New Brighton) suggest an electrical interference that caused a customer’s implanted defibrillator to deliver a shock is not caused by equipment used within the hot pools complex.

Christchurch City Council Head of Recreation, Sports and Events Nigel Cox explains “Electrical engineers have carried out extensive investigations to determine the cause, advising that it is likely that some external source is causing a low level alternating current (AC) noise.

“They have ruled out all possible sources within He Puna Taimoana. However, they say it will be extremely difficult to pinpoint the exact cause as the presence of very small earth currents is not uncommon.

“The hot pools remain safe for the general public to use because the electrical interference is only a potential hazard for those with certain implanted cardiac devices.

Cox adds “we are now focusing on how we can mitigate the AC noise so people with implanted cardiac devices can safely enjoy the hot pools. We have engaged specialist earthing system engineers to investigate potential solutions. This work will take place over the next month.

“Public safety is our number one priority so until we have a solution, we are still advising people with implanted cardiac devices not to visit He Puna Taimoana.’’