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Virginia Administrative Code
Title 12. Health
Agency 5. Department of Health
Chapter 410. Regulations for the Licensure of Hospitals in Virginia
6/4/2026

12VAC5-410-227. Newborn safety devices.

A general hospital that voluntarily installs a newborn safety device, as provided for in clause (c) of § 18.2-371 of the Code of Virginia, for the reception of children shall ensure that:

1. The device is located inside the hospital in an area that is conspicuous and visible to employees or personnel;

2. The device is staffed 24 hours a day by a health care provider;

3. The device is climate controlled and serves as a safe sleep environment for an infant;

4. The device is equipped with a dual alarm system that sounds 60 seconds after a child is placed in the device and automatically places a call to 911 if the alarm is not deactivated within 60 seconds from within the hospital;

5. The dual alarm system is visually checked at least two times per day and tested at least one time per week to ensure the alarm system is in working order;

6. The device automatically locks when a child is placed in the device; and

7. The device is identifiable by appropriate signage that shall include written and pictorial operational instructions.

Statutory Authority

§§ 8.01-226.5:2, 32.1-12, and 32.1-127 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 18, eff. June 4, 2026.

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