On March 5, 2017, DADS published a provider letter regarding the 2016 adoption by regulation of the NFPA 2012 LSC and 2012 HCFC. Be familiar with the Existing Occupancy chapters and the New Occupancy chapters that apply to newly-constructed facilities. The latter would apply to facilities for which construction, receipt of design approval or building permits were received no later than July 4, 2016.
These standards do not apply to licensed only NF’s who are still under the 2000 edition until DADS amends its rules regarding licensing standards. According to the Provider letter:
DADS rules have not been updated to reference the 2012 edition. Surveyors will cite non-compliance with 2012 LSC and 2012 HCFC (collectively known as federal K-tags) effective November 1, 2016, but will not cite a corresponding state rule that specifically references the 2000 edition of NFPA 101 or any other outdated NFPA editions not adopted by the CMS rule effective July 5, 2016. This temporary measure will remain in effect until DADS/HHSC issues a subsequent provider letter or until state rules are updated to reflect the 2012 editions of NFPA 101 LSC and the 2012 edition of the NFPA 99 HCFC.
