The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, published proposed rules this spring that would amend the fire safety standards for hospitals, long-term care facilities, ambulatory surgery centers, hospice inpatient, and many other healthcare facilities that participate in Medicare and Medicaid programs.
CMS proposed adopting the 2012 editions of the Life Safety Code, which includes measures devised by the National Fire Protection Association, and includes the Healthcare Facilities Code. A key change is a requirement that buildings over 75 feet tall have sprinkler systems throughout the structure. Existing buildings would have 12 years to install them.
Automatic sprinkler systems will be required in all habitable areas, closets, roofed porches, balconies, and decks of new residential health care facilities. CMS also strongly encouraged existing facilities to be sprinklered in all habitable areas. Under the new provisions, sprinklers also must be installed in attics of new and existing residential facilities if the attic is used for living purposes, storage, or the housing of fuel-fired equipment. Or, it must have a heat detection system, be of noncombustible construction, or be constructed of fire retardant treated-wood.
Newly-constructed facilities would have to install approved smoke alarms inside every sleeping room, outside every sleeping area, and on all levels within a residential unit. CMS is soliciting public comment regarding whether that requirement should be applied to existing facilities, as well.
(http://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/new-federal-health-care-facility-regulat-93481/)
Related Stories
Reconstruction & Renovation | Dec 21, 2017
Interactive map includes detailed information on historic New York City buildings
The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission launched a new, enhanced version of its interactive map, Discover NYC Landmarks.
Codes and Standards | Dec 20, 2017
Moody’s says cities may face credit downgrades if they don’t address climate risks
Credit ratings giant will ask what communities are doing to mitigate risk exposure.
Codes and Standards | Dec 18, 2017
Schools with optimal indoor environments boost student performance and energy efficiency
World Green Building Council report confirms that lighting, indoor air quality, thermal comfort and acoustics impact learning.
Codes and Standards | Dec 14, 2017
Mayors sign Chicago Climate Charter; will strive to meet Paris accord goals
Pledge to push for more local authority to reduce emissions.
Codes and Standards | Dec 13, 2017
New report examines ongoing costs of green infrastructure options
The report compares solutions to reduce stormwater.
Codes and Standards | Dec 12, 2017
Total cost of structural fires in U.S. reached $328.5 billion in 2014
Costs associated with losses was $55.4 billion.
Codes and Standards | Dec 11, 2017
Steel-timber composite system proposed for mid- and high-rise buildings
Structural steel columns and beams support a cross-laminated timber floor system.
Codes and Standards | Dec 7, 2017
Many coastal states performing poorly to protect beaches, coastlines
The most vulnerable regions fare the worst in new study.
Codes and Standards | Dec 6, 2017
2017 wildfires highlight gaps in California’s approach to fire safety in urbanized areas
Better hazard mapping and retrofit programs could help.
Codes and Standards | Dec 5, 2017
Guide for understanding medical monitoring requirement of OSHA silica standard released
Center for Construction Research and Training gives advice on new regulation.