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Virginia Administrative Code
Title 12. Health
Agency 35. Department of Behavioral Health And Developmental Services
Chapter 105. Rules and Regulations for Licensing Providers by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services
12/22/2024

12VAC35-105-280. Physical environment.

A. The physical environment, design, structure, furnishings, and lighting shall be appropriate to the individuals served and the services provided.

B. The physical environment shall be accessible to individuals with physical and sensory disabilities, if applicable.

C. The physical environment and furnishings shall be clean, dry, free of foul odors, safe, and well-maintained.

D. Floor surfaces and floor coverings shall promote mobility in areas used by individuals and shall promote maintenance of sanitary conditions.

E. The physical environment shall be well ventilated. Temperatures shall be maintained between 65°F and 80°F in all areas used by individuals.

F. Adequate hot and cold running water of a safe and appropriate temperature shall be available. Hot water accessible to individuals being served shall be maintained within a range of 100° to 110°F. If temperatures cannot be maintained within the specified range, the provider shall make provisions for protecting individuals from injury due to scalding.

G. Lighting shall be sufficient for the activities being performed and all areas within buildings and outside entrances and parking areas shall be lighted for safety.

H. Recycling, composting, and garbage disposal shall not create a nuisance, permit transmission of disease, or create a breeding place for insects or rodents.

I. If smoking is permitted, the provider shall make provisions for alternate smoking areas that are separate from the service environment. This subsection does not apply to home-based services.

J. For all program areas added after September 19, 2002, minimum room height shall be 7-1/2 feet.

K. This section does not apply to home-based and noncenter-based or crisis services. Sponsored residential services shall certify compliance of sponsored residential homes with this section.

Statutory Authority

§ 37.2-203 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 18, Issue 18, eff. September 19, 2002; amended, Virginia Register Volume 19, Issue 24, eff. September 18, 2003; Volume 28, Issue 5, eff. December 7, 2011; Volume 40, Issue 22, eff. July 17, 2024.

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