An investigation has commenced into a small fire at the Kingston Public Hospital this morning.

The fire which was confined to an air conditioning device in an operating theatre has been brought under control.

The operating theatre was not in use at the time of the fire.

18 patients and 14 members of staff were evacuated from the Accident and Emergency Department due to the effects of the smoke.

No injury was reported.

The Jamaica Fire Brigade said fire fighters were alerted at about 5:20 AM, with teams from the Trench Town and York Park stations responding.

Its reported that extinguishers were used to put out the blaze.

Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton said the fire was put out before fire fighters arrived.

The Accident and Emergency Department has been ventilated and the hospital was advised that the building is safe for occupancy.