The number of Christchurch Hospital staff concerned about potential exposure to toxic fumes from a nearby construction site has surged to 84.

It was previously believed that fumes from industrial paint, used in construction at the hospital’s new tower block, may have entered the hospital’s ventilation system earlier this year.

Radiology team members experienced symptoms such as headaches, breathing difficulties, and skin rashes, with one individual even requiring intensive care.

Pregnant women were reportedly among those affected.

In a statement to chrislynchmedia.com Health NZ  deputy chief executive Martin Keogh said “A total of 84 staff have now come forward with concerns they may have been exposed to fumes.

“We are establishing an ongoing Health Monitoring Programme for affected staff, and the specialist doctor we have engaged is providing advice and clinical assessments for those staff choosing to take up this offer.

“It is key for me that we ensure any affected staff have the necessary resources and support they need to evaluate their exposure risk and provide treatment as required to aid their recovery,” he said.

Keogh said “The health and safety of our staff and patients remains our top priority, and investigations into the root cause of the issue and how it has been managed to date are still ongoing.”

“We are working through an assurance process to get projects which are low risk in terms of fume generation back up and running,” Keogh said.

Two projects, a switchboard replacement at Christchurch Women’s Hospital and the ambulatory care hub, have already restarted.

However, any projects with a potential for hazardous fume generation remain paused until further safety measures are confirmed.

“Any projects which could generate hazardous fumes will not recommence until I am sure the root cause of this issue has been identified and mitigations are in place to ensure a safe working environment for our people and the patients we are entrusted to care for,” Keogh said.