Improper Use of Extension Cords and Power Strips
Summary
During a Life Safety Code survey, it was observed that extension cords and a power strip were improperly used to provide a permanent power supply to various equipment in the facility. On the First Floor, a power strip connected to an extension cord was supplying power to a television in the Chapel. The Maintenance Director, upon being interviewed, was unaware of this setup and mentioned that residents typically watched television near the Chapel entrance or in their rooms or lounges. Additionally, in the Basement, an extension cord was found supplying power to a computer in the Housekeeping and Laundry Director's office, which the Maintenance Director was also unaware of. Further observations on the First Floor in Unit 6 revealed two extension cords supplying power to two televisions in a resident room. The Maintenance Director stated they were not aware of the extension cords being used in this room either. Despite having documentation for checks, the facility's audit of power strips in resident rooms, conducted on a previous date, did not prevent these deficiencies. The survey identified these issues as non-compliance with specific NFPA standards and state regulations.
Plan Of Correction
Plan of Correction: Approved December 30, 2024 **NOTE- TERMS IN BRACKETS HAVE BEEN EDITED TO PROTECT CONFIDENTIALITY** 1. Extension cord was being used to supply a permanent source of power to a television in the Chapel was removed by Maintenance Director. Extension cord was being used to supply a permanent source of power to a computer in the Housekeeping and Laundry Director's office was removed by Maintenance Director. Extension cords were being used to supply a permanent source of power to two televisions in Resident room [ROOM NUMBER] was removed by Maintenance Director. 2. All residents are at risk for deficient practice of using extension cords and power strips being used as a supply of power to equipment. 3. An entire house audit will be conducted to check for use of extension cords. Any deficient practices will be corrected and brought to QAPI for further review. 4. All staff were educated by RN Educator regarding policy and procedure use of extension cords. All residents and families received written notice on use of extension cords by Administrator. 5. A monthly audit of extension cords will be conducted by Maintenance and any deficient practices will be corrected and brought to QAPI for further discussion. Person Responsible: Maintenance Director
Penalty
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