Improper Installation Height of Portable Fire Extinguisher
Penalty
Summary
During an observation and interview conducted with facility staff, it was found that a portable fire extinguisher (PFE) located inside the kitchen by the dry storage area was installed at a height of 65.5 inches from the floor to the top of the extinguisher. This installation does not comply with NFPA 10, 2010 Edition Section 6.1.3, which specifies the required mounting height for PFEs. The deficiency was identified in one of three smoke compartments, and the finding was confirmed by facility staff during the survey process. No information regarding residents, their medical history, or their condition at the time of the deficiency was provided in the report.
Plan Of Correction
K 355 Portable Fire Extinguishers Correct Deficient Practice: On 3/10/25, MS removed the portable fire extinguisher mounted on the wall inside the kitchen and properly reinstalled it less than 5 feet off the ground. Identify Others: On 03/10/2025, MS did a visual check on all portable fire extinguishers to ensure they were installed at the proper height off the floor to allow easy access when needed. No other deficient practice found. On 03/10/2025, the Administrator provided in-service education to MS regarding NFPA 10 titled, "Fire Extinguisher Placement Guide," indicating that "Extinguishers need to be installed at least 4 inches off the ground up to a maximum of 5 ft. The exception to this is for extinguishers heavier than 40 lbs, they can only be up to 3 ft 6 inches off the ground and wheeled fire extinguishers don't need to be off the ground since the wheels already keep the cylinder from touching the floor." MS verbalized understanding. MS will complete monthly checks to ensure compliance and ease of access for all portable fire extinguishers in the facility. Any negative findings will be reported to the Administrator and corrected immediately. Monitoring: Findings and trends from inspection rounds will be brought to the Monthly Safety Committee meeting by MS until the Safety Committee has determined compliance has been sustained. Facility's Safety Committee will provide further recommendations as necessary.