Electrical System Safety Deficiencies
Summary
The facility failed to maintain all components of the electrical system in a safe manner, as observed during a life safety survey. Specifically, electrical circuit panels were found to be unlocked in areas accessible to the public, which poses a safety risk. Additionally, these panels were lacking panel directories, which are essential for identifying circuits and ensuring proper maintenance and emergency response. Furthermore, non-GFCI outlets were identified within six feet of a sink in the employee cafeteria and connected to a fish tank in the atrium off the lobby. This is a violation of the National Electrical Code, which requires ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for receptacles in such locations to prevent electrical shock hazards. These deficiencies indicate a failure to comply with established safety standards for electrical systems.
Plan Of Correction
Plan of Correction: Approved January 13, 2025 Element 1 Immediate Corrective Action: All circuit panels identified as unlocked were immediately secured with compliant locking mechanisms. All electrical circuits panels were checked for complete directories. Any electrical circuit panels found lacking directories were corrected. Element 2: All residents have the potential to be affected by this practice; however, no residents were harmed by this specific practice. All areas were checked for similar deficiencies. None were found. Element 3 Systemic Changes: A policy has been implemented requiring all electrical panels in public areas to be locked at all times. The maintenance staff have been in-serviced on the revisions to this policy to ensure compliance on securing electrical panels as a part of safety compliance. Element 4 Monitoring: The maintenance director will audit all outlets monthly that are near water sources throughout the facility to identify any additional non-compliant areas. The maintenance director will audit all electrical panels monthly for directories throughout the facility to identify any additional non-compliant areas. The maintenance director and consultant from Ridgefield Associates will inspect records and maintenance logs quarterly to ensure sustained adherence to electrical safety standards. The results of all audits will be reported to the administrator for compliance. Any areas identified as non-compliant will be corrected immediately. The maintenance director will report the results of all audits to the QAPI Committee quarterly for a period of 3 quarters. The QAPI Committee will determine if any further action is required. Element 5 Person Responsible: Maintenance director
Penalty
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