Failure to Notify Department of Health of HVAC Modifications
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to notify the Pennsylvania Department of Health prior to making modifications and changes to its heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Specifically, when Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners (P-Tec HVAC) failed, the facility installed window air conditioning units and altered their electrical cords without first obtaining Department-approved plans or notifying the Department as required. This action was observed during a site visit, and the deficiency was confirmed through interviews with the Administrator, Regional and local Maintenance Director, and the VP of Building Operations. A subsequent onsite revisit determined that the facility had still not notified the Department of Health regarding the HVAC modifications. This ongoing failure to communicate planned changes affecting the facility's environment was confirmed in an exit interview with the Maintenance Director. The deficiency affected the entire facility, as it pertained to the systems responsible for maintaining safe and efficient environmental conditions for all residents.