Improper Use of Surge Protectors and Outlet Extenders
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to properly use surge protectors and prevent the use of outlet extenders in one of three smoke compartments. Specifically, during observations in the DSD's office and the Social Services office, surge protectors were found to be plugged into other surge protectors. This practice does not comply with NFPA 101 and related standards, which prohibit daisy-chaining of surge protectors and require proper use of electrical equipment to prevent electrical overloads. The observations were made during concurrent interviews with the Maintenance Supervisor (MS), who acknowledged that surge protectors should not be connected to one another. The report does not mention any specific residents or their medical conditions in relation to this deficiency. The deficiency was identified based on direct observation of electrical equipment usage in staff offices.
Plan Of Correction
K 920 Electrical Equipment - Power Cords and Extension Cords Correct Deficient Practice: MS removed unapproved surge protectors from the Social Service Director's office and the Director of Staff Development's Office. Identify Others: Maintenance Supervisor did a visual check of the facility for any other unapproved electrical equipment being used. No other deficient practice found. Systemic Changes: In-service education was provided by Administrator on 03/10/2025 to Department Heads regarding only using approved electrical power strips and the danger of daisy chaining appliances. The Director of Staff Maintenance Supervisor will create a log to check the facility on a weekly basis to ensure only approved electrical extension cords and power strips are being used for 3 months or until compliance is sustained. Maintenance Supervisor will also check electrical extension cords and power strips monthly and complete Maintenance Inspection Report. Any negative findings will be reported to Administrator and corrected immediately. Monitoring: Maintenance Supervisor will present weekly and monthly logs to the facility's Safety Committee Meeting on a monthly basis for analysis of trends until compliance is achieved. Safety Committee will provide further recommendations when needed. Completion Date: 3/28/25