AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

2008 AFH "Dear Provider" Letters

October 27, 2008

ADSA:  AFH #2008-021
SIDE HINGED DOORS

Dear Adult Family Home Provider:

We recently learned about a residential home building code requirement for primary exit doors.  The law went into effect for all residential homes on July 1, 2004.  It requires that the home’s primary exit door(s) be hinged on the side.

The requirement was part of the adoption of the International Building Code and is a safety issue.  Doors that are not hinged on the side, particularly sliding doors, often are difficult to open and people may have trouble getting out of the home in an emergency. 

While most homes do have a main exit door with side hinges, many adult family homes use doors that are not side hinged to get residents out of the home.  We have begun implementing the law for all new adult family home licenses.

As you know there is a current requirement in WAC 388-76-10715(3) that all exit doors leading to the outside be able to open without special knowledge or effort by residents.  On inspections licensors will check all of your exit doors to see if residents can open the doors easily.

If licensors find exit doors that are not easily opened by residents they will consider writing a citation under WAC 388-76-10715.  You may have to replace the door or change your resident care mix.

If you have questions, please contact your local field manager.  Thank you for your continued commitment to the care of long-term care residents of our state.

Sincerely,

Joyce Pashley Stockwell, Director
Residential Care Services