You Asked:
How much water and food supply must a facility have as part of their emergency preparedness?
We Answered:
The State Operations Manual Appendix PP states in accordance with §483.90(i)(1) F-tag 922 the facility must establish procedures to ensure that water is available to essential areas when there is a loss of normal water supply. The facility should have a written procedure which defines the source of water when there is a loss of normal water supply, including provisions for storing the water, both potable and nonpotable, a method for distributing the water and a method for estimating the volume of water required. In accordance with F-tag 838 Facility Assessment the facility based and community-based risk assessment, utilizing an all-hazards approach must evaluate the facility’s ability to maintain continuity of operations and its ability to secure required supplies and resources during an emergency or natural disaster. For example, if the facility is located in a flood zone, the risk assessment must include an evaluation of how residents will be kept safe and needs met during a flood affecting the facility. Facility staff should consider involving their local/county Office of Emergency Preparedness when conducting this community based risk assessment. The facility’s emergency preparedness plans as required under §483.73 should be integrated and compatible with the facility assessment. As one is updated, so should the other.
Ohio Administrative Code Rule 3701-17-18 | Food and nutrition states each nursing home shall maintain at all times sufficient food supplies for residents. The home shall maintain at least two days' supply of perishable food items and at least one week's supply of staple food items. The amount of such supplies shall be based on the number of meals that the nursing home provides and the nursing home's census.