0940-05-04-.10
Capable Of Self-Preservation Rule
Cite as Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0940-05-04-.10
(1)
Definition. Capable of self-preservation means that a service recipient is capable of
responding to an approved emergency signal, including prompting by voice, by following a
pre-taught evacuation procedure within a reasonable time limitation regardless of whether the
LIFE SAFETY LICENSURE RULES
CHAPTER 0940-05-04
service recipient is fully aware of the reasons for the action. A service recipient is capable of
self-preservation if the service recipient is able to transfer unassisted from the bed or another
fixed position to an individualized means of mobility, which is continuously available, and able
to demonstrate the ability to transverse a pre-defined means of egress from the facility within
a reasonable time limitation. Service recipients who have imposed upon them security
measures beyond their control, which prevent their egress from the facility, are not capable of
self-preservation.
(2)
Limitation. All residential facilities serving four (4) or more service recipients who are not
capable of self-preservation and all non-residential facilities serving four (4) or more service
recipients six (6) years of age or older who are not capable of self-preservation are required
to meet the criteria for Health Care Occupancies.
(3)
For the purposes of occupancy rating, minor individuals residing with parents or guardians
shall not count towards persons who are not capable of self-preservation.
(4)
Any facility permitting any persons who are not capable of self-preservation into the facility,
shall assign an employee to be responsible for those individuals not capable of self-
preservation.
(5)
Any service recipient who is unable to respond to an approved emergency signal, including
voice prompt, and evacuate the facility without physical assistance, in three (3) minutes or
less, is to be considered not capable of self-preservation.
(6)
The facility shall fill out the Department’s Risk Assessment/Evaluation of Capability for each
person it deems incapable of self-preservation.