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Keep Us Safe by Minimizing Decorations in Your Area (and Know the Guidelines)!
State and federal regulatory agencies prohibit decorations in healthcare occupancies unless the following guidelines concerning decorations are observed to ensure the safety of us all:
- All materials used for decorative purposes shall be labeled or have accompanying document verifying that they are flame-retardant. (You must be able to prove flame-retardant materials are being used).
- Decorations entering patient rooms must be verified as patient specific, must not cover more than 50% of attached surface, and either discarded or sent with the patient upon discharge.
- Decorations in common areas must not obstruct egress corridors, cover more than 30% of attached surface, and must either be cleanable and cleaned after use or discarded after the holiday season.
- Artificial trees are permissible if not in egress corridor; however, natural trees are prohibited.
- Lighted wax candles shall not be used.
- Decorations cannot be attached to any fire protection equipment such as sprinkler heads, smoke detectors, or fire extinguishers.
- Decorations cannot be hung from the ceiling, attached to fire/smoke doors, and not interfering with any door operation.
- Pine bark, pinecones, running cedar, holly, and other types of natural decorations are prohibited unless they have been treated with a flame-retardant solution.
- Lights are allowed if they are UL listed, in good condition, and without need of extension cord or power strip.
Should you have any fire-safety questions concerning decorations please contact HSPP Compliance at 924.9389; for infection control, please contact 924.0260.