As we enter the holiday season, Texas Children’s recognizes that it is possible to create a festive environment for our patients, visitors, and staff, while adhering to fire code and infection control standards. Please keep the following in mind as you plan your holiday decorating:
- Non-combustible decorations are encouraged.
- Artificial, noncombustible trees and decorative vegetation are permitted.
- Tree cuttings, natural wreaths, hay bales, etc. are not allowed.
- Christmas ornaments must be non-combustible and not plugged into the facility electrical system.
- Lighted natural candles, open flames, or spark-producing devices are not allowed at any time.
- Decorative electric lights are only permitted in the main lobbies (first floor) when an employee is staffing the lobby.
- Battery-operated lights are permitted.
- Combustible decorations should not exceed 20 percent of the wall or door to which they are affixed.
- Cubicle walls and doors should not be wrapped (like a package).
- Decorations, lights, etc. should not be placed on any cross-corridor door, stairwell door, and any other door in such a way that prevents the door from closing properly.
- Decorations should not be placed within any stairwell.
- Decorations should not be hung from or impede fire and life safety building features, including
- Egress paths
- Exit signs
- Pull stations
- Fire alarm strobes
- Sprinklers
- Fire extinguishers
- Stairwell signage
- Evacuation maps
- Decorations should not disrupt the ceiling assembly (ceiling grid and tiles).
- Combustible window coverings such as posters, sheets, and paper are not permitted.
- If tape is used to affix decorations, please remember to remove the residue, if any, when the decorations are removed.
- Documentation supporting the flame resistance and UL-listing (when appropriate) of decorative items shall be maintained by the department displaying the items.
Contact Environmental Health and Safety at ext. 4-1961 with questions.