Improper Use of Portable Electric Heater in Laundry Room
Summary
A deficiency was identified during a Life Safety Code survey when a portable electric space heater was found improperly maintained in the Basement Laundry room of the facility. The heater was plugged in and running on its low setting, with no documentation available to confirm that its heating element did not exceed 212 degrees Fahrenheit. The heater was positioned on a laundry linen folding table, surrounded by combustible materials such as folded blankets, pillowcases, and sheets, all within three feet of the heater, contrary to the manufacturer's safety warning. The Maintenance Director was unaware of the heater's presence in the Laundry room and stated that portable electric heaters were not allowed in the building. The facility did not provide the heater, and there was no documentation to verify its compliance with safety standards. The facility's policy on space heaters, which applies to non-resident areas, requires approval and supervision of such devices, but this policy was not adhered to in this instance.
Plan Of Correction
Plan of Correction: Approved December 30, 2024 1. Space Heater located in Basement was removed by Maintenance Director. Facility conducted audit of all rooms to check for space heaters. Any deficient findings were corrected immediately. 2. All residents are at risk for deficient practices of not having proper documentation showing portable electric heater did not exceed 212 degrees. 3. All staff were educated on policy and procedure regarding space heaters by RN Educator. 4. An audit will be conducted monthly by QA staff to ensure no space heaters are present. Any deficient practice will be corrected and brought to QAPI for further discussion. Person Responsible: Maintenance Director
Penalty
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