Failure to Maintain HVAC Systems in Safe Operating Condition
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain its Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems in safe operating condition, resulting in inoperable or inadequate heating in the 200 and 300 halls and the lobby. On the date of observation, temperatures in the lobby were recorded below 71 degrees Fahrenheit, and multiple rooms on the 200 hall were without a functioning HVAC system. Residents were moved from the 300 hall due to the HVAC system being out of service. The facility's policy requires HVAC systems to be maintained according to manufacturer specifications and the Life Safety Code, with documentation of all inspections, tests, and maintenance to be kept by the Maintenance Director. Interviews revealed that the HVAC system had been out since earlier in the week, and the facility had contacted an outside company for repairs. The Regional Maintenance Director stated that filters are changed monthly but admitted to not maintaining documentation for the HVAC system as required by policy. The Facility Administrator was unable to specify the frequency of HVAC maintenance and deferred to the Maintenance Director. These actions and inactions resulted in the facility's inability to maintain required ambient temperatures for residents in affected areas.