Pa. Code 5320.81

Building, physical plant and grounds

This regulation establishes physical plant and building requirements for Long-Term Structured Residences (LTSRs), including a maximum capacity of 16 residents, security features to prevent elopement of involuntarily committed individuals, hot/cold water requirements, heating minimums (65°F generally, 70°F when residents aged 65+ are present), and safety standards for heating equipment and fireplaces. Facility operators must ensure the physical environment remains as home-like as possible while meeting these safety standards.

55 Pa. Code § 5320.81 - Building, physical plant and grounds 

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(a)
 An LTSR may not house more than 16
 residents. One provider who had been licensed/approved to operate an LTSR with
 bed capacity in excess of 16 prior to January 1, 1993, is exempt from this
 provision.

(b)
 An LTSR shall have
 the capacity to allow locks on entrances and exits to preclude elopement of
 involuntarily committed individuals and to prevent unauthorized entrance.
 Physical attributes of the facility that are intended to maintain necessary
 levels of protection shall be as unobtrustive as possible to maintain a
 home-like environment.

(c)
 The LTSR
 shall have an adequate supply of hot and cold water piped to each wash basin,
 bathtub/shower, kitchen sink, commercial dishwasher, and to laundry equipment.
 Hot water accessible to residents may not exceed 130°F at the
 outlets.

(d)
 Heating in rooms used
 by residents shall be maintained at a temperature of not less than 65°F or,
 when there are residents 65 years of age and older, not less than
 70°F.

(e)
 Portable space heaters are
 prohibited. Space heaters shall be adequately vented and installed with
 permanent connections and protectors.

(f)
 Steam heat radiators and pipes in rooms
 and areas used by residents and within reach of residents shall be
 covered.

(g)
 Fireplaces shall be
 securely screened when in use.

Notes

55

 Pa. Code §
 
5320.81

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