EMS Sleeping-On-Duty Video Triggers Internal Investigation In Nelson Mandela Bay

A video circulating on social media showing Nelson Mandela Bay Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers apparently asleep while on duty has prompted an internal investigation by the Eastern Cape Department of Health.

Eastern Cape health spokesperson Camagwini Mavovana confirmed that the footage depicts EMS call-takers slumped over their desks and seemingly fast asleep during working hours.

While the images have caused public concern, the department has since established that the video is more than six months old. The clarification followed a media query sent to the department early on Saturday morning, after which it issued a public statement addressing the matter.

Eastern Cape Health Department Responds to Viral EMS Footage

“The Eastern Cape Department of Health has noted with serious concern the video footage circulating on social media involving Emergency Medical Services (EMS) call-takers at our Nelson Mandela Bay facility,” Mavovana said.

She explained that identifiable markers in the footage confirmed its age. “It is therefore clear that the footage is old, and the intention to distribute it at this time could be part of a smear campaign against the department,” she said.

Mavovana emphasised that EMS remains a vital pillar of the province’s healthcare system, managing and responding to thousands of emergency calls every day. However, she stressed that the behaviour shown in the video falls short of the department’s service delivery standards.

Internal Review Under Way as Professional Conduct Questioned

According to Mavovana, preliminary internal reviews have already begun to determine the full circumstances surrounding the footage.

“While employees are entitled to regulated breaks, sleeping or eating at workstations – rather than using designated recreation areas – constitutes a breach of professional protocol,” she said.

The department is also investigating the actions of the individual who recorded and shared the video. “Sharing internal departmental operations publicly and without context violates our communication policy and undermines the collective efforts of the EMS workforce,” Mavovana added.

Systemic Reform and Support for EMS Staff

Acknowledging the intense pressure faced by EMS personnel, Mavovana said the imbalance between service demand and available resources remains a daily challenge across the Eastern Cape.

“However, resource constraints can never be an excuse for a lapse in professional vigilance,” she said.

She noted that the department’s response would not be limited to disciplinary steps alone. Instead, it is finalising a framework aimed at professionalising EMS communication centre operations in line with international best practice.

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The proposed framework includes improved oversight, mental health support for high-stress roles and upgraded dispatch technology.

“The Batho Pele principles of customer service will continue to be integrated into all training offered to EMS call-takers and dispatch officers,” Mavovana said.

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