Emergency Electrical Receptacle Markings Worn Off
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that all emergency electrical receptacles supplied from the life safety and critical branches had distinctive color markings, as required by NFPA 99 standards. During an observation in the dining room, a receptacle located next to the exit sliding door was found to be missing most of its red coloring, which is used to indicate its connection to the emergency power system. The Maintenance Supervisor confirmed that the outlet was designated as an emergency outlet and should be red in color, but stated that the red coloring had been worn off due to contact with residents' wheelchairs. A review of the facility's Maintenance Service Policy and Procedure indicated that the Maintenance Department is responsible for maintaining the building and equipment in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. The policy also outlines that maintenance personnel are tasked with ensuring the building remains safe and operable at all times. Despite these requirements, the emergency receptacle in question was not properly marked, resulting in noncompliance with regulatory standards.
Plan Of Correction
BEL VISTA HEALTHCARE CENTER makes every effort to operate in substantial compliance with Federal and State laws and regulations. Nothing in this Plan of Correction is an admission otherwise. BEL VISTA HEALTHCARE CENTER is submitting this Plan of Correction in compliance with its regulatory obligations and does not waive any objections it may have as to the merit or form of any allegations contained herein. Please note that the facility may contest the merits or form of any of the alleged deficient findings and may take reasonable steps to appeal them. This Plan of Correction constitutes BEL VISTA HEALTHCARE CENTER's written credible allegation of compliance for the deficiencies noted. It is the facility's policy to comply with all applicable federal and state regulations regarding electrical systems and essential electric system receptacles as specified in NFPA 99 codes 6.4.2.2.6, 6.5.2.2.4.2, and 6.6.2.2.3.2. Corrective Action Taken: On 5/20/2025, the Maintenance Director immediately replaced the emergency receptacle located in the dining room next to the exit sliding door with a new red-colored receptacle that clearly identifies it as being connected to the life safety emergency system. Additionally, all emergency receptacles throughout the facility were inspected for proper color identification and marking. Identification of Other Areas with Potential to be Affected: The Maintenance Director conducted a facility-wide assessment on 5/20/2025 of all emergency receptacles connected to life safety and critical branches to identify any other receptacles with worn or missing distinctive color markings. This assessment included all four smoke compartments of the facility. Systemic Changes and Measures Implemented: 1. A preventive maintenance schedule has been implemented requiring monthly inspections of all emergency receptacles for proper color identification. Monitoring and Quality Assurance: The Maintenance Director will conduct monthly audits of all emergency receptacles to ensure proper identification markings are maintained. Results will be documented on the Emergency Receptacle Inspection Log. The Director of Maintenance will review these logs monthly and report findings to the quarterly Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) committee. The QAPI committee will monitor compliance until substantial compliance is achieved and maintained for a minimum of three consecutive quarters. Date of Completion: 5/20/2025