Improper Use of Extension Cords and Power Strips
Penalty
Summary
During a Life Safety Code survey, it was observed that extension cords, power strips, and an electrical adapter were improperly used to supply power to various equipment on both the first and second floors of the facility. On the second floor, a power strip was plugged into another power strip to supply power to two computer tablets in the Medical Records office. The Maintenance Supervisor was unaware of this setup. On the first floor, an electrical adapter was used to power two phone chargers in the Nursing Supervisor's office, and an extension cord was used in a resident's room to power two phone chargers. Additionally, another extension cord was used to power a holiday tree in a resident's room, and yet another extension cord supplied power to a string of lights wrapped around the handrail of the open staircase connecting the first and second floors. The Maintenance Supervisor stated that residents' rooms were supposed to be inspected for extension cords and power strips during monthly bed inspections. However, a review of the monthly Bed Inspections logs revealed that the last inspection occurred in 2024, and there was no documentation indicating that residents' rooms were checked for extension cords and power strips. This lack of awareness and documentation contributed to the deficiency, as the facility failed to maintain electrical safety standards as required by the relevant codes and regulations.
Plan Of Correction
Plan of Correction: Approved March 1, 2025 The power strips, extension cords and adapter found during survey were immediately removed from use. An audit of the entire facility to include resident rooms, offices and common areas will be conducted to assure no other power strips, extension cords and adapter are being utilized with exception to those found to meet the UL and life safety code standards. Any found to be non-compliant will be removed. A review of the facilities policy related to use of power strips, extension cords and adapter has been completed and found to be in compliance with the standards set forth by life safety codes. Maintenance staff will receive education and in-servicing to review this policy and procedure. Random audits of resident rooms, offices and common spaces for non-approved power strips, extension cords and adapters will be completed weekly, for six weeks, to assure ongoing compliance. A new audit form that includes bed inspections, and inspections for extension cords, power strips, and electrical adapters, will be created to document these audits. These audit results will be placed on the agenda of the Quality Assurance Performance Improvement committee to determine if continued monitoring is warranted or if corrective actions are completed. The Director of Maintenance will be responsible for ongoing compliance with these corrective measures.