HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation and interview, this facility failed to prohibit the use of more than one locking device on a door within a means of egress, to allow for quick and reliable exiting to a public way (an area of safety). The facility failed to provide signage on the access control doors and allowed a locking device on the access controlled door. This deficient practice would prohibit or delay egress during an emergency. The facility census was 13 patients.

Findings are:
Observation on 5-2-16 between 10:26 am and 10:48 am revealed:
1. The General X-ray/Radiation Room door was equipped with a thumb lock and door hardware to exit the room.
2. The CT Scan door was equipped with a doorknob and a thumb turn deadbolt lock to exit the room.
3. The Fluora X-ray Room door was equipped with a thumb lock and door hardware to exit the room.

During an interview on 5-2-16 between 10:26 am and 10:48 am, Maintenance Staff A confirmed all the findings.

NFPA Standard:
A latch or other fastening device on a door shall be provided with a releasing device having an obvious method of operation and that is readily operated under all lighting conditions. The releasing mechanism for any latch shall be located not less than 34 in. (86 cm), and not more than 48 in. (122 cm), above the finished floor. Doors shall be operable with not more than one releasing operation.
Exception No. 1*: Egress doors from individual living units and guest rooms of residential occupancies shall be permitted to be provided with devices that require not more than one additional releasing operation, provided that such device is operable from the inside without the use of a key or tool and is mounted at a height not exceeding 48 in. (122 cm) above the finished floor. Existing security devices shall be permitted to have two additional releasing operations. Existing security devices other than automatic latching devices shall not be located more than 60 in. (152 cm) above the finished floor. Automatic latching devices shall not be located more than 48 in. (122 cm) above the finished floor.
Exception No. 2: The minimum mounting height for the releasing mechanism shall not be applicable to existing installations. 2000 NFPA 101, 7.2.1.5.4*

A latch or other fastening device on a door shall be provided with a releasing device having an obvious method of operation and that is readily operated under all lighting conditions. The releasing mechanism for any latch shall be located not less than 34 in. (86 cm), and not more than 48 in. (122 cm), above the finished floor. Doors shall be operable with not more than one releasing operation. 2000 NFPA 101, 7.2.1.5.4

Doors located in the means of egress that are permitted to be locked shall have adequate provisions for the rapid removal of occupants such as remote control, the keying of all locks to keys carried by staff at all times, or knowledge of the code. Only one such locking device shall be permitted on each door. 2000 NFPA 101, 18/19.2.2.2.5