The Free State Government Mortuary has resumed limited operations after being partially reopened by the Department of Employment and Labour. This follows a six-month closure due to occupational health and safety violations.
The mortuary, operated by the Free State Department of Health’s Forensic Pathology Services Directorate, had been shut down in October 2024. The closure disrupted post-mortem services and placed additional strain on personnel and facilities across the province. Autopsies were rerouted to the Welkom Mortuary, Kroonstad Mortuary, and the University of the Free State.
READ MORE: FS MORGUE HIT WITH PROHIBITION NOTICE, MANGAUNG UNAFFECTED
According to the Department of Health spokesperson, Mondli Mvambi, on 1 April 2025, mortuary management presented a progress report to the Department of Employment and Labour, outlining the steps taken to remedy the safety issues.
Mvambi noted that the department found the interventions satisfactory, including the installation of mobile air conditioners in the administration block.
Furthermore, as of 7 April 2025, the Department of Employment and Labour approved the reopening of the administration block, fridge storage, and loading area. However, the dissection area remains closed due to unresolved HVAC system issues.
“The dissection area remains prohibited until further notice, pending the finalisation of the HVAC repair project, which is currently in the bid evaluation stage,” said Mvambi. “We anticipate appointing a service provider before the end of May 2025, but procurement of overseas parts may affect timelines.”
Despite the challenges, the department reports no autopsy backlog. For the current week, 39 autopsies are scheduled: 14 in Botshabelo, 19 in Bloemfontein, and six in Xhariep. The waiting period for families has remained under two weeks.
READ MORE: FREE STATE MORTUARY BACKLOG: 42 AUTOPSIES STILL PENDING AMID URGENT EFFORTS
“Our forensic pathology teams have worked tirelessly under difficult conditions to ensure families are not left waiting in vain for their loved ones,” Mvambi added.
The Free State Department of Health reiterated that restoring full operations at the government mortuary is a top priority and expressed appreciation for the public’s continued patience.
Compiled by Justine Fortuin
