Hazardous Area Deficiency Due to In-Room Wheelchair Battery Charging
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a wheel chair battery charger unit was observed in use within a resident's room in the F wing, specifically room #114. The battery was being charged during night hours inside the resident's room, as confirmed by maintenance staff during an interview. This practice failed to comply with requirements for hazardous areas, which mandate protection by a fire barrier with a 1-hour fire resistance rating or an automatic fire extinguishing system, as outlined in 8.7.1.1 and 19.3.5.9. The deficiency was noted based on direct observation and staff interview, with the potential to affect two occupants in the event of a hazardous gas release within the room.
Plan Of Correction
All electric wheelchair chargers have been systematically removed from residents' individual rooms and relocated to designated Life Enrichment rooms. This decision was made to enhance safety and ensure compliance with new protocols. A comprehensive policy and procedure document has been developed to outline the new charging process. All staff members have undergone extensive training regarding the proper protocol for transporting unoccupied electric wheelchairs to the Life Enrichment room for overnight charging. Charging in residents' rooms is now strictly prohibited to minimize potential hazards and disturbances. The Life Enrichment room is strategically chosen as the charging location since it remains unoccupied overnight, reducing any risks associated with electrical equipment being near residents during those hours. As part of the onboarding process, new residents will receive thorough education about this policy and procedure to ensure they fully understand the charging process and its importance for safety. Additionally, the maintenance personnel have been assigned to conduct a detailed inspection of the charging setup on a weekly basis for the first month. Following this initial period, inspections will transition to a monthly schedule for the subsequent three months, or until the facility demonstrates substantial compliance with the established policy. The results of these inspections, along with any findings, will be tracked and presented to the Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) committee for further evaluation and action, ensuring that ongoing compliance and safety standards are maintained. This structured approach aims to provide a safe environment for residents while effectively managing the charging of electric wheelchairs. The Maintenance Director or designee will be responsible for sustained compliance. Date of Compliance: 06/16/2025