HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation and interview, it was determined the facility failed to ensure exits were readily accessible at all times, according to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.

The findings include:

Observation, on 10/10/12 at 2:44 PM, with the Facility Director and Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO), revealed the exterior exit for the cafeteria did not have an all-weather hard surface to the public way. Exterior exits must contain an all-weather hard surface for the evacuation of patients. The observation was confirmed with the facilities Director and Interim CEO.

Interview, on 10/10/12 at 2:44 PM, with the Facilities Director, revealed the Job Supervisor of the construction company for the hospital told him the exterior exit leading from the cafeteria did not need an all-weather hard surface because it was not part of the health care portion of the hospital.

Reference: NFPA 101 (2000 edition)
7.7.1*
Exits shall terminate directly at a public way or at an exterior exit discharge. Yards, courts, open spaces, or other portions of the exit discharge shall be of required width and size to provide all occupants with a safe access to a public way.

7.1.10.1*
Means of egress shall be continuously maintained free of all obstructions or impediments to full instant use in the case of fire or other emergency.

Based on observation and interview, it was determined the facility failed to ensure exits were readily accessible at all times, according to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.

The findings include:

Observation, on 10/10/12 at 2:44 PM, with the Facility Director and Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO), revealed the exterior exit for the cafeteria did not have an all-weather hard surface to the public way. Exterior exits must contain an all-weather hard surface for the evacuation of patients. The observation was confirmed with the facilities Director and Interim CEO.

Interview, on 10/10/12 at 2:44 PM, with the Facilities Director, revealed the Job Supervisor of the construction company for the hospital told him the exterior exit leading from the cafeteria did not need an all-weather hard surface because it was not part of the health care portion of the hospital.

Reference: NFPA 101 (2000 edition)
7.7.1*
Exits shall terminate directly at a public way or at an exterior exit discharge. Yards, courts, open spaces, or other portions of the exit discharge shall be of required width and size to provide all occupants with a safe access to a public way.

7.1.10.1*
Means of egress shall be continuously maintained free of all obstructions or impediments to full instant use in the case of fire or other emergency.