New federal rule highlighted after sprinkler system saves nursing home residents

Fire sprinklers required in all U.S. long-term care facilities as of previous month

By Healthcare Facilities Today


A recent Burr Ridge, Ill., nursing home fire was suppressed by the building’s fire sprinkler system until Tri-State Fire Protection District crews provided final extinguishment, preventing major damage and possible deaths. The successful fire sprinkler activation at Emeritus of Burr Ridge is a model example of why the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) now requires fire sprinklers in all new and existing long-term care facilities nationwide, according to an article on the Gnom.es National News Service web site.

The CMS federal rule requiring fire sprinklers in long-term care facilities became effective on August 13, 2013, following a five-year phase-in timeframe after publication in 2008. The rule, which applies to skilled nursing facilities (SNF) that are regulated by CMS for Medicare and Medicaid licensure, is a direct result of two deadly nursing home fires in 2003 .

"Fortunately, the nursing home in Burr Ridge was compliant with the newly enacted federal rule and protected by a fire sprinkler system," said Tom Lia, executive director of the nonprofit Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board. 

Read the article.

 



September 9, 2013


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

AI Usage for Healthcare Facilities

People in all industries are finding more use cases for artificial intelligence.


Ground Broken on Pelican Valley Senior Living Modernization Project

It is expected to reach completion in early-mid 2027.


All-Electric UCI Health – Irvine Hospital Set to Open

The 144-bed facility will be the nation’s first all-electric acute care hospital, serving the residents of coastal and south Orange County.


The Rising Strategic Value of Owner's Reps in Healthcare

The role of the owner’s representative has evolved beyond project advocate to strategic campus planning consultant.


Lawrence Group Designs Pair of Ignite Medical Resorts in Missouri

They combine cutting-edge physical rehabilitation with the indulgence of a 5-Star hotel.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.