CMS issues categorical waiver for using power strips in care areas

In a recent memorandum, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has granted permission for the use of power strips in existing and new healthcare patient/resident areas if the provider is in compliance with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 2012 Life Safety Code.

The memo also notes that resident rooms in long-term care are not subject to the more restrictive NFPA 99 requirements if they do not use line-operated electrical appliances for diagnosis, therapeutic or monitoring purposes.

While individual waivers are not required, the provider must have written documentation that it has elected to use the waiver and meets its requirements. When the life safety survey team arrives, it must be told of this election at the entrance meeting.

Sandra Hoban

Sandra Hoban was on I Advance Senior Care / Long-Term Living’s editorial staff for 17 years. She is one of the country’s longest-serving senior care journalists. Before joining Long-Term Living, she was a member of the promotions department at Advanstar Communications. In addition to her editorial experience, Sandi has served past roles in print and broadcast advertising as a traffic and talent coordinator.