Reminder About Required Temperatures in NFs & ALFs
VHCA (7/9/2010)
With record-setting temperatures across Virginia, we are taking the opportunity to remind our members of the federal and state-specific temperature requirements for nursing facilities and state requirements for assisted living facilities. Certified Nursing Facilities Must Comply with Section483.15 (H) Environment.
The facility must provide - - A safe, clean, comfortable, and homelike environment, allowing the resident to use his or her personal belongings to the extent possible;
- Housekeeping and maintenance services necessary to maintain a sanitary, orderly, and comfortable interior;
- Clean bed and bath linens that are in good condition;
- Private closet space in each resident room, as specified in §483.70(d)(2)(iv) of this part;
- Adequate and comfortable lighting levels in all areas;
- Comfortable and safe temperature levels. Facilities initially certified after October 1, 1990 must maintain a temperature range of 71–81°F; and
- For the maintenance of comfortable sound levels.
OLC Licensure Regulations 12VAC5-371-370. Maintenance and housekeeping. D. The heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system shall be capable of maintaining temperatures between 70°F to 80°F throughout resident areas.
Virginia Regulations for Assisted Living Facililties 22 VAC 40-72-860. Heating, ventilation, and cooling. B. At least one movable thermometer shall be available in each building for measuring temperatures in individual rooms that do not have a fixed thermostat that shows the temperature in the room. 22 VAC 40-72-860. Heating, ventilation, and cooling.
D. Cooling devices. - Cooling devices shall be made available in those areas of buildings used by residents when inside temperatures exceed 80°F.
- Cooling devices shall be placed to minimize drafts.
- Any electric fans shall be screened and placed for the protection of the residents.
- When air conditioners are not provided in all areas used by residents, the facility shall develop and implement a plan to protect residents from heat-related illnesses.
- As of June 28, 2007, the largest common area used by residents shall have air conditioning equipment. The temperature in this common area shall not exceed 80°F.
- As of December 28, 2006, in all buildings approved for construction or change in use and occupancy classification, as referenced in the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (13 VAC 5-63), the facility shall provide an air conditioning system for all areas used by residents, including residents’ bedrooms and common areas. Temperatures in all areas used by residents shall not exceed 80°F.
- As of December 28, 2012, the facility shall provide in all buildings an air conditioning system for all areas used by residents, including residents’ bedrooms and common areas. Temperatures in all areas used by residents shall not exceed 80°F.
a. The facility shall develop an implementation plan, which includes the type of system to be utilized and equipment needed.
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