Md. Code Regs. 10.07.02.44

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 22, November 1, 2024

Section 10.07.02.44 - Physical Plant - Heating and Cooling

A. Unless otherwise indicated, all general requirements apply to both new construction and an existing nursing home.

B. Temperatures. A nursing home shall maintain a minimum design temperature of 75°F or 24°C for all occupied areas.

C. Heating System. A nursing home shall be equipped with a properly maintained and operational central heating system. The heating system shall be:

(1) Capable of maintaining 75°F or 24°C throughout the residents' section of the building with the outside temperature as prescribed in the Guidelines for Design and Construction of Residential Health, Care, and Support Facilities; and

(2) In compliance with NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, NFPA 99 Health Care Facilities Code, and other applicable codes, and all federal, State, and local codes.

D. Humidity. The humidity shall be controlled according to the guidelines prescribed in the Guidelines for Design and Construction of Residential Health, Care, and Support Facilities.

E. Auxiliary Heat. Appropriate provisions shall be made for emergency auxiliary heat by means of alternative sources of electric power, alternative fuels, or standby equipment.

F. Space Heaters. Space heaters and portable heaters may not be used.

G. Boiler rooms. Boiler rooms shall be provided with sufficient outdoor air to maintain combustion rates of equipment and to limit temperatures in working stations to 97°F or 36°C.

H. Air Conditioning.

(1) A nursing home shall be equipped with a properly maintained air conditioning system.

(2) The air conditioning system shall be in compliance with NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, NFPA 99 Health Care Facilities Code, and all federal, State, and local codes.

(3) In an existing structure, the nursing home shall comply with the regulations and building codes effective at the date of construction.

(4) In new construction or renovation, the nursing home shall comply with the regulations and building codes effective at the date of construction or renovation.

Md. Code Regs. 10.07.02.44

Regulations .44, respectively, Appendix recodified as effective October 1, 1990 (17:19 Md. R. 2320); amended effective 46:12 Md. R. 541, eff. 6/17/2019