N.M. Admin. Code § 8.370.17.40 - MINIMUM LIGHTING AND ELECTRICAL STANDARDS

A. Electrical standards: The facility shall provide that:

(1) all facility electrical sources, supplies, and equipment comply with all applicable national, state and local electrical codes;

(2) all circuit breakers or fused switches provide electrical disconnection and over current protection and are:

(a) readily accessible for use and maintenance;

(b) set apart from traffic lanes; and

(c) located in a dry, ventilated space.

(3) all panel boards servicing lighting and appliance circuits shall be on the same floor and in the same facility area as the circuits they serve; and

(4) each panel board shall be marked showing the service area of each circuit breaker or fused switch.

B. Lighting: The facility shall insure that:

(1) all spaces occupied by people, machinery or equipment within buildings, at outside building approaches and at parking areas have adequate lighting to prevent injury;

(2) lighting shall be sufficient to make all parts of an area clearly visible;

(3) lighting fixtures shall be shielded as required by code;

(4) lighting fixtures shall be selected and located for the comfort and convenience of the clients, staff and public; and

(5) a fixed or portable examination light shall be provided for all examination and birth rooms.

C. Electrical cords and electrical receptacles: Power strips may not be used as a substitute for adequate electrical outlets in a facility. Power strips may be used for a computer, monitor and printer. Power strips shall not be used with medical devices. The facility shall take precautions if power strips are used, including: installing internal ground fault and over-current protection devices, preventing cords from becoming tripping hazards, and using power strips that are adequate for the number and types of devices used. The facility shall take all necessary precautions to insure power overloads and excessive power demands on any circuit do not cause overheating or fire. Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) shall be installed in locations near water sources to prevent electrocution of persons.

(1) All electrical cords and extension cords must be:

(a) U/L approved;

(b) replaced as soon as they show wear;

(c) not used under any circumstances as a general wiring method;

(d) plugged into an electrical receptacle within the room where used and not be connected in one room and extended to anything outside the room; and

(e) not be used in series.

(2) Electrical receptacles must be:

(a) installed as required by applicable codes;

(b) appropriately rated for each use and function; and

(c) any use of wall mounted outlets to expand the receptacle capacity or to be used as a surge protector and connected to any medical equipment is prohibited.

Notes

N.M. Admin. Code § 8.370.17.40

Adopted by New Mexico Register, Volume XXXV, Issue 12, June 25, 2024, eff. 7/1/2024