Texas Administrative Code
Title 26 - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Part 1 - HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION
Chapter 554 - NURSING FACILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR LICENSURE AND MEDICAID CERTIFICATION
Subchapter D - FACILITY CONSTRUCTION
Division 9 - FACILITIES LICENSED ON OR AFTER APRIL 2, 2018
Section 554.362 - Miscellaneous Details for New Facilities

(1) Hazards such as sharp corners, edges, or unexpected steps must be avoided.

(2) Drinking fountains, telephone booths, vending machines, and portable equipment must not restrict corridor traffic or reduce corridor width.

(3) Windows must be designed to prevent residents from accidentally falling through the windows.

(4) Doors that normally stay open or are frequently used must not swing out into the corridor unless required by NFPA 101 or another provision of this subchapter. Alcoves must be provided for doors that must swing outward toward a corridor or way of egress.

(5) Safety glass must be used where required by local building codes or NFPA 101.

(6) Thresholds and expansion joint covers must be flush with the floor surface to facilitate use of wheelchairs and carts.

(7) A facility must provide grab bars at all residents' toilets, showers, tubs, and sitz baths. The bars must be 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 inches in diameter and must have 1-1/2 inch clearance to walls. Bars must have sufficient strength and anchorage to sustain a concentrated load of 250 pounds. Grab bar standards must comply with standards adopted under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

(8) Handrails must be provided on both sides of corridors used by residents, and must meet the following:

(9) Ends of handrails and grab bars must be constructed with return ends to walls to prevent snagging the clothes of residents.

(10) Ceiling fan blades must be at least seven feet above the floor and be located so as not to interfere with the operation of any ceiling-mounted smoke detectors.

(1) Concrete floors, whether finished by sealant, or similar product, must not be used as the finished floor unless specifically approved in writing by HHSC. An exception is mechanical equipment rooms and maintenance or similar areas.

(2) Sound separation must be provided in corridor walls and resident room party walls. Provide a minimum Sound Transmission Class of 30 per ASTM E90.

(3) A facility must provide attic access for building maintenance and inspection.

(4) A facility must provide illumination and a safe platform in the attic at all attic access locations.