The health watchdog has raised fire-safety concerns about a state nursing home in Ballinamore. The HSE says it's working to address the issues. The Health Information and Quality Authority carried out an unannounced inspection on Ballinamore Nursing Unit in July, when it had 17 residents.
In relation to fire precautions, the centre found not compliant. The inspector said two large comfort chairs, wheelchairs, and hoists were stored along some corridors in the centre. Additionally, a laundry trolley was also stored at the top of a stairwell in the main house.
Hiqa said these arrangements posed a significant risk that a timely and safe evacuation in the event of a fire emergency would not be possible. In addition, the inspector observed equipment inappropriately stored underneath the stairwell at reception and another stairwell, such as a bed frame, three large comfort chairs, a hoist containing a battery, wheelchairs and boxes with supplies for activities.
Hiqa said, in the event of a fire, this equipment can combust and accelerate a fire and potentially block these escape routes. The HSE says all issues identified by Hiqa have been reviewed and measures will be taken to help ensure compliance.
