Rats have been spotted at Warrington Hospital's kitchen, prompting a member of the catering staff to describe the "awful" working conditions there.
The worker told the Warrington Guardian the rodents had been there for "several weeks" with maggots now allegedly "falling through the ceiling."
Environmental health officers have visited the site on a number of occasions but nothing has helped prevent the rat infestation.
Just a fortnight ago, the worker said one of their colleagues "stood on a rat to catch it."
Warrington Council said it had received complaints concerning rodent activity at Warrington General Hospital's kitchen.
"A number of visits have been made by environmental health officers to ensure that public health is protected," a spokesperson said.
"We are working with the hospital team to ensure that suitable pest control treatments, pest proofing and hygiene precautions are in place to protect patients."
Further unannounced visits will take place.
The hospital's chief operating officer at Warrington Hospital, Chris Evans, said: "The trust has an established pest control programme managed by the estates and facilities team with inspections made on a weekly basis to determine any activity.
"Any activity is immediately dealt with. Humane proactive deterrent measures are in place throughout the year and checked regularly."
He said earlier this month they were alerted that "activity had been noticed" in the kitchens and the pest control contractor was contacted.
The incident was not in a food preparations area - however staff had proactively decontaminated all the areas as good practice.
