A. Part One (1): Diagrams of escape routes must be easy to read from a short distance and posted in highly visible locations throughout the environment, clearly indicating where a person is located in relation to the nearest exit(s). In lieu of posted escape routes, agency providers of Supervised Living, Supported Living, Shared Supported Living, and Host Home Services must document training that prepares a person to exit the location in the event of an emergency. Training must take place upon admission and at least quarterly thereafter. This documentation must be maintained at the service location. Additionally, for applicable providers, verification of this training must be documented in the Executive Director's Health, Environment, and Safety assurances submission to DMH, on a schedule as determined by DMH. Part Two (2): Every exit must be clearly marked with lighted signs, and the signs must always be lighted and clearly visible. Emergency lighting systems (appropriate to the setting) must be in corridors and/or hallways and must provide the required illumination automatically in the event of any interruption of normal lighting. For Supervised Living, Shared Supported Living, Supported Living, and Host Homes, the provider must have alternative lighting, such as battery-operated flashlights, lanterns, or generators.
B. Programs must have designated, safe means of egress. A service area is defined as the total certified, usable square footage in a building in which a specific service is provided. The designated means of egress must be:1. Always readily accessible;2. Based on applicable building codes;4. Arranged to minimize any blockage by fire or other emergency condition; and5. Must ensure safe exit for everyone in the service area.6. If a window is designated as a means of egress, then it must be operational as such, as outlined in this rule.7. Assurance of such must be provided on the Executive Director's statement of assurances pertaining to Health, Environment and Safety rules and requirements or other DMH-required documented attestation of such.C. Exterior doors identified/utilized as a means of egress shall not be permitted to have key-operated locks from the egress side.D. All service locations must have a written plan of action in the event of utilities failure.