The California Department of Health has issued an All Facilities Letter reminding skilled nursing facilities and intermediate care facilities of compliance requirements related to the 2000 edition of the Life Safety Code. The letter emphasizes two changes that facilities must implement: replacing batteries used in emergency lighting to provide illumination for at least 90 minutes, and replacing roller latches in corridor doors with positive latching devices. Facilities that fail to comply with these requirements could face deficiencies cited at a Scope/Severity level of D, E, or F. Waivers, including temporary ones, cannot be granted due to the potential negative impact on residents' health and safety. The compliance deadline for these changes was March 13, 2006. Facilities with questions should contact Colleen Reeves, Chief of the Department of Health Services, Licensing and Certification, Life Safety Code Unit.

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