HospitalInspections.org

Based on inspection, review of facility documents and interview, it was determined that the hospital failed to ensure that areas with overhead water sprinklers were maintained in a safe and unobstructed manner.

· Food storage and shelves in the dry food storage room, walk-in freezer and walk-in refrigerator obstructed overhead water sprinklers

The facility's failure to maintain water sprinklers according to state and federal regulations could affect the safety of all patients, family members and staff during a fire.

The findings were:

During an inspection of the facility, while accompanied by the Staff #17 on 09/23/14 at approximately 1:30 p.m. revealed food storage in the dry storage area, walk-in refrigerator and walk-in freezer obstructed water sprinklers in the dietary department.

Review of the facility's Safety Management Plan revised and reviewed on June 2014 required the facility to keep sprinklers clear from obstruction.

Interview with the Staff #17 on 09/23/14 at approximately 1:45 p.m. confirmed that food storage and shelves obstructed overhead water sprinklers in the dry storage area, walkin-in refrigerator and walk-in freezer. Staff #22 confirmed that staff were required to keep sprinklers clear of obstruction per facility policy and state and federal regulations.

During the Exit Conference on 09/24/14 at approximately 12:00 p.m., the facility was provided an opportunity to ask questions and provide additional information related to the water sprinkler system of the facility. None was given.