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Virginia Administrative Code
Title 12. Health
Agency 35. Department of Behavioral Health And Developmental Services
Chapter 46. Regulations for Children's Residential Facilities
12/26/2024

12VAC35-46-960. Seclusion room requirements.

A. The room used for seclusion shall meet the design requirements for buildings used for detention or seclusion of persons.

B. The seclusion room shall be at least six feet wide and six feet long with a minimum ceiling height of eight feet.

C. The seclusion room shall be free of all protrusions, sharp corners, hardware, fixtures, or other devices, that may cause injury to the occupant.

D. Windows in the seclusion room shall be constructed to minimize breakage and otherwise prevent the occupant from harming himself.

E. Light fixtures and other electrical receptacles in the seclusion room shall be recessed or so constructed as to prevent the occupant from harming himself. Light controls shall be located outside the seclusion room.

F. Doors to the seclusion room shall be at least 32 inches wide, shall open outward and shall contain observation view panels of transparent wire glass or its approved equivalent, not exceeding 120 square inches but of sufficient size for someone outside the door to see into all corners of the room.

G. The seclusion room shall contain only a mattress with a washable mattress covering designed to avoid damage by tearing.

H. The seclusion room shall maintain temperatures appropriate for the season.

I. All space in the seclusion room shall be visible through the locked door, either directly or by mirrors.

Statutory Authority

§§ 37.2-203 and 37.2-408 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 25, Issue 21, eff. August 6, 2009.

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