Section 135.42 - General Safety(a) Safety officer. The governing body shall appoint a safety officer who is knowledgeable in safety practices in health care facilities. The safety officer shall carry out the functions of the safety program.(b) Safety activities. (1) Incident reports. The safety officer shall establish an incident reporting system which includes a mechanism to ensure that all incidents recorded are evaluated, and documentation is provided to show follow-up and corrective actions.(2) Safety policies and procedures. Safety policies and procedures for each department or service shall be developed, implemented, and enforced.(3) Safety training and continuing education. Safety training shall be established as part of new employee orientation and in the continuing education of all employees.(c) Written authority. The authority of the safety officer to take action, when conditions exist that are a possible threat to life, health, or building damage, shall be defined in writing and approved by the governing body.(d) Safety manual. Each department or service shall have a safety policy and procedure manual within its own area that becomes a part of the overall facility safety manual.(e) Emergency communication system. An emergency communication system shall be provided in each facility. The system shall be self-sufficient and capable of operating without reliance on the building's service or emergency power supply. Such system shall have the capability of communicating with the available community or state emergency networks, including police and fire departments.(f) Fans. All portable fans and ceiling fans shall not be utilized in any patient treatment areas/rooms.(g) Electrical extension cords and cables. Electrical extension cords and cables shall not be used for permanent wiring. Temporary electrical cords or cables shall be secured and protected to prevent tripping.25 Tex. Admin. Code § 135.42
The provisions of this §135.42 adopted to be effective June 18, 2009, 34 TexReg 3948