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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 interfere with sprinkler or 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.

For UVA Community Health, please contact Kelly Dunavant, Director, UVA Community Health, 817.647.5053.