Failure to Maintain Safe Room Temperatures Due to Inoperable Heating
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain mechanical equipment necessary to heat residents' rooms, resulting in four residents occupying rooms without adequate heating for several months. Observations revealed that one resident was found in the hallway with a blanket over his head and shoulders, shivering and seeking warmth because his room was too cold. Another resident was heard yelling from his room, stating he was cold and requesting that the heat be fixed. Both residents reported that staff had not offered them the option to move to another room despite the lack of heat. The Maintenance Supervisor confirmed that the heating systems in four rooms were not functioning and that the issue had persisted for several months. Room temperatures in these rooms ranged from 66.5°F to 69.7°F, below the facility's policy standard of 71°F to 81°F. The Maintenance Supervisor also stated that there was no documentation indicating residents had been asked to move due to the heating issue. Facility policies reviewed confirmed the requirement to maintain a safe, comfortable, and homelike environment, including appropriate temperature levels.