CMS Updates Sprinkler Guidance

CMS has revised and re-released the Automatic Sprinkler Survey and Certification Letter: "Installation of Automatic Sprinkler Systems in Nursing Homes, August 13, 2013 Deadline". The Letter, revised 12/20/13, includes further clarification on enforcement actions and updated numbers on facilities not sprinklered or partially sprinklered. No changes have been made regarding CMS’ plans to survey for compliance with the sprinkler mandate at the point of facilities’ "normally scheduled" recertification surveys. Among the attachments included as part of the CMS letter is one that provides answers to technical questions, and an attachment that specifies actions that a nursing home may take to substantially lower exposure to fire risks while a sprinkler system is being installed.

Contact: Elliott Frost, efrost@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8832