* EC: Clarifications and Expectations: Remaining Vigilant: Key safety issues to watch for on EC tours[®] [REF: EOC, JCSC,] EC News, October 2014, Vol 17, #10, Pg 1 JCe1410_B6

• EC.04.01.01 requires hospitals to conduct environmental rounds every six months in patient care areas (EP12) and annually in non-patient care areas (EP13).  The article identifies the following 5 safety hazards that are frequent sources of non-compliance:

•  Doors that are propped-open
•  Space Heater use in treatment areas (e.g., nurses station)
•  Improper/non-use of personal protective equipment (Note: failure to comply with relevant OSHA guidelines is not a specific standard, but it can be cited under LD.04.01.01, EP2 as a failure to comply with relevant outside rules and regulations)
•  Inadequate lighting/burned out bulbs (especially in exit signs)
•  Lack of sufficient cleanliness/strong odors

A closing point is also made that beyond the EC Professionals, general staff and LIPs are also required (EC.03.01.01 Eps 1-3) to share responsibility for identifying and responding appropriately to environmental hazards.
Tip: It is strongly recommended that environmental Rounds be supported with the use of an inspection checklist.  Make sure your list includes the 5 common problem areas described above.
Tip: If you need or want to refine your EC Tour Checklist, consider the Mental Health Environment of Care Checklist (MHEOCC) developed by the VA Hospital system.