A fire broke out at the Jamaica Plain Veteran Affairs Medical Center in Boston, causing damage that will affect imaging operations for the foreseeable future. An investigation confirmed the fire started under an MRI machine, possibly caused by the unit itself.
The incident occurred around 10 a.m. last week, and fire and smoke extended to part of the hospital wing. The exact reason for the fire—which began during welding work—is still under investigation.
According to coverage from WBZ News, firefighters were cautious to put out the flames once arriving on the scene, concerned the MRI machine could turn metal objects in the room—and their own equipment—into projectiles. However, firefighters managed to swiftly shut off power and put out the flames in a safe manner.
No one was hurt, but fire damage to the area has rendered the MRI suite unusable, and a handful of patients are having their imaging exams rescheduled at other facilities. The hospital is planning to use a research MRI machine to accommodate some patients on-site.
Read the full story from WBZ News at the link below.
Chad is an award-winning writer and editor with over 15 years of experience working in media. He has a decade-long professional background in healthcare, working as a writer and in public relations.