Domestic Hot Water Temperature
From Gvrahe
SURVEYOR ALERT OHSM DIVISION of QUALITY and SURVEILLANCE For NURSING HOMES & ICFs/MR
ALERT TOPIC: Hot Water Temperatures in Nursing Homes
PROCEDURE: Due to inconsistencies between the nursing home code (415) and the nursing home construction code (713) related to acceptable hot water temperatures in nursing homes, it is imperative that surveyors understand the Division’s current policy related to citations for hot water temperatures. 1. As part of the survey process, surveyors assigned to the activity should measure hot water temperatures in various parts of the facility. Resident, public and staff areas should be evaluated and distinctions should be made between areas that are accessible to and used by residents, the type of water usage that is present (sink, shower, toilet etc.), and the cognitive status of residents with access to the water supply. 2. In accord with the temperature range of 90 – 120 degrees Fahrenheit which is found in NYCRR 415, hot water temperatures generally do not have to be cited if they are below 120 degrees Fahrenheit, although there may be exceptions. 3. If water temperatures exceed the 110 degree Fahrenheit standard set in NYCRR 713, and are measured between 110 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit, surveyors should investigate to determine if there have been complaints or injuries related to hot water and make case by case decisions regarding the acceptability of the water temperatures. 4. If water temperatures exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit, deficiencies should be cited and Immediate Jeopardy should always be considered. 5. If water temperatures exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit, or if surveyors are considering citing deficiencies at a lower temperature, surveyors should evaluate the facility’s preventive maintenance program as well as the facility’s procedures for monitoring hot water temperatures. Review any documentation the facility has that validates its adherence to its own procedures. Interview staff to identify who knew the water temperatures exceeded 120 degrees Fahrenheit, how long the situation has existed and what steps were taken to correct the problem. BASIS / SOURCE: Information Bulletin #99-1 – Citation of Hot Water Temperatures in Nursing Homes 10 NYCRR 415.29 (f) (6) – Nursing Homes – Physical Environment 10 NYCRR 711.5 (l) (13) – General structural, equipment and safety of existing NHs 10 NYCRR 713 - 1.18 (e) (2) (vi) – Mechanical requirements 10 NYCRR 713 – 2.23 (e) (2) (vi) – Mechanical requirements CONTACT PERSON(S): Regional PDs EFFECTIVE DATE: Immediately
SA # 04 – 02 1/2/04 - sc
