In response to the state of emergency related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the department adopted emergency rules under RCW 34.05.350 on June 23, 2020, to amend and suspend portions of WAC 388-97-1740. The emergency rules remained in effect until June 7, 2022. The following rule was in effect during that time:

(1) The nursing home must develop and implement detailed written plans and procedures to meet potential emergencies and disasters. At a minimum the nursing home must ensure these plans provide for:

(a) Fire or smoke;

(b) Severe weather;

(c) Loss of power;

(d) Earthquake;

(e) Explosion;

(f) Missing resident, elopement;

(g) Loss of normal water supply;

(h) Bomb threats;

(i) Armed individuals;

(j) Gas leak, or loss of service; and

(k) Loss of heat supply.

(2) The nursing home must train all employees in emergency procedures when they begin work in the nursing home, and periodically review emergency procedures with existing staff.

(3) The nursing home must ensure emergency plans:

(a) Are developed and maintained with the assistance of qualified fire, safety, and other appropriate experts as necessary;

(b) Are reviewed annually; and

(c) Include evacuation routes prominently posted on each unit.