Improper Use of Surge Suppressors and Extension Cords
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to properly monitor the use of surge suppressors and extension cords, leading to deficiencies in three of the 43 smoke compartments. On December 16, 2024, a surge suppressor was observed supplying electrical power to two refrigerators and a coffee machine in the Roosevelt 2nd floor West Conference Room. This setup was confirmed by the Assistant Director of Facilities and Grounds, indicating that high-draw appliances were improperly plugged into a surge suppressor. Further observations on December 17, 2024, revealed additional issues. A surge suppressor was found supplying power to another surge suppressor at the Washington 3 Care Base, confirmed by the Assistant Director of Facilities and Grounds as a daisy-chained setup. Additionally, an extension cord was supplying power to a surge suppressor in the Clinics 3rd floor LGH Providers Room, which was also confirmed by the Assistant Director. These findings indicate a failure to adhere to proper electrical safety standards as outlined by NFPA guidelines.
Plan Of Correction
1. (Observation 1) The surge suppressor supplying electrical power to two refrigerators and a coffee machine, within the Roosevelt 2nd floor West Conference Room, was corrected on 12/26/2024. Staff will be educated on not having high draw appliances plugged in to surge suppressors. The Director of Security and/or Maintenance Assistant Director or designee will monitor the building monthly to ensure that high draw appliances are not plugged in to surge suppressors. The results of the audit will be forwarded to the Quality Assurance Committee for review and comment. (Observation 2) The surge suppressor supplying power to another surge suppressor, at the Washington Care Base was corrected on 12/16/2024. Staff will be educated on not using a surge suppressor to supply electrical power to another surge suppressor. The Director of Security and/or Maintenance Assistant Director or designee will monitor the building monthly to ensure that a surge suppressor is not used to supply electrical power to another surge suppressor. The results of the audit will be forwarded to the Quality Assurance Committee for review and comment. (Observation 3) The extension cord supplying electrical power to a surge suppressor, within the Clinic's 3rd floor office was corrected on 12/17/2024. Staff will be educated on not using extension cords to supply electrical power to a surge suppressor. The Director of Security and/or Maintenance Assistant Director or designee will monitor the building monthly to ensure that an extension cord is not used to supply electrical power to a surge suppressor. The results of the audit will be forwarded to the Quality Assurance Committee for review and comment.