Complaint Investigation Report

The investigation revealed the following:

For allegation – The facility elevator is not in good operating condition. It is alleged that a person reached in with one hand, hoping to stop the elevator door from closing, but ended up crushing the hand. It also indicated the older elevators do not have infrared device to detect a motion.

LPA interviewed Administrator Edwards who stated that the elevators have sensors to detect any object approaching the door. The administrator was not aware of anybody getting injured from the elevator door. The staff interviewed had not heard of the incident where a person's hand got injured from the elevator door closing on it. The staff had not tried to approach the door by sticking in their hands as it is closing. Instead, they would press the outside button to get the elevator door to retract. They stated that the elevators have sensors on them which will prevent the door from closing on the residents as they are entering. LPA interviewed 11 residents and 10 out of 11 residents stated they do not have any issues with the elevators. Some stated that when the elevator door starts to close, they do not attempt to open the door and will wait for the next round. One resident reported that the elevator did not detect the cane as resident tried to use it to keep the door from closing. During the visit, LPA tested the 2 elevators in the building with the Assistant Administrator. Both elevators detected LPA’s hand or foot when the doors were closing mid-way. The elevator doors also retracted when LPA pressed the button from the outside. Based on observation, the elevators appear to work properly and have door sensors. Reports gathered show that an elevator inspector comes out on a monthly basis. LPA reviewed the elevator service reports and there were no indications of the elevator in disrepair. A representative from the elevator company confirmed the services at the facility and that the elevators have motion sensors installed.

Although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of evidence to prove the alleged violation did or did not occur, therefore the allegation is UNSUBSTANTIATED.

An exit interview was conducted. A copy of this report along with the appeal rights were provided to the Assistant Administrator.