STATE BUILDING CODE INTERPRETATION NO. 97-04
 
CODE: 1994 State Regulations for Barrier-Free Facilities
SECTION:  Section 1105.4.9, Visual Alarms
QUESTION:  Are visual alarms required in patient rooms in hospitals and nursing homes?
ANSWER:
 

DISCUSSION: 

No. It was not the intent of Section 1105.4.9 to require audible or visual alarms in patient care rooms of hospitals and nursing homes.

The first exception to Section 1105.4.9 states that alarm systems in Group I Division 1.1 and 2 Occupancies may be modified to meet standard health care design practice. This exception was intended to allow the use of any alarm system in Group I Division 1.1 and 2 Occupancies that allows the safe evacuation of patients. Due to the nature of these occupancies, it is assumed that there is always a full time care giver.

SUPERSEDES: None
REQUESTED BY:  Department of Health