August 30, 1995

HOOPESTON NURSING HOME FINED

SPRINGFIELD, IL -- The Illinois Department of Public Health has fined Hoopeston Community Memorial Nursing Home, a 50-bed skilled care facility located at 701 E. Orange St. in Hoopeston, $5,000 for failure to comply with fire safety codes.

A May 5 survey by the Department revealed the facility, during a construction project, did not have acceptable fire barriers at two locations. The National Fire Protection Association's Life Safety Code requires that a wall be in place between the existing building and new construction that will prevent fire from penetrating for at least one hour.

In addition, surveyors found that two existing exits led into the new wing addition, rather than outside, and would not provide a safe exit from the building in case of emergency. Also, there was a 6-inch drop at the exit leading to the exterior of the building.

The facility was instructed to ensure a one-hour fire-rated separation be in place between the existing building and new construction and that all exits remain free of obstructions to ensure they are readily accessible in an emergency.

The facility did not request a hearing on the Department's action.

Illinois Department of Public Health 535 West Jefferson Street Springfield, Illinois 62761 Phone 217-782-4977 Fax 217-782-3987 TTY 800-547-0466 Questions or Comments