R432-6-208. Special Design Features

(1) A signal system shall be provided to alert staff of a resident's need for help.

(2) The signal system shall be designed to:

(a) operate from each resident's living unit and from each bath room or toilet room;

(b) transmit a visual and auditory signal to a 24-hour staffed location, except a limited capacity facility signal system shall produce an auditory signal to summon staff;

(c) identify the location of the resident summoning help; and

(d) allow it to be turned off only at the source of the call.

(3) Large and small facilities shall provide a thermostat control in each resident living unit. The Department shall grant a variance upon request from the licensee to this requirement for an existing building seeking initial licensure.

(4) Plumbing shutoff valves shall be located on the main water supply line and at each fixture. In addition, large facilities shall provide an accessible shutoff valve on each primary hot and cold branch of the water line and shall provide a minimum of two hot and two cold water zones. The Department shall grant a variance upon request from the licensee to this requirement for an existing building seeking initial licensure.

(5) Building entrances in large and small facilities shall be at grade level, clearly marked, and located to minimize the need for residents to traverse other program areas. A main facility entrance shall be designated and accessible to persons with disabilities.

(6) Special units intended to accommodate residents with Alzheimers or Dementia shall comply with Section 4.2-2.2.3.2 of the Guidelines for Design and Construction of Health Care Facilities, 2010 edition, which is adopted and incorporated by reference.