Survey Ready: What Maintenance Directors Need to Know Before the State Walks Through the Door.
- Date: April 16, 2026
- Arrive by 8:00 am.
- Class Time: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm
- Lunch included
- CEU: Available
- Presenter: Linda Chaney
- Place: 545 N Garden Plaza Court, Post Falls, ID 83854 (map)
Garden Plaza Post Falls, Seltice Room in the Independent Living Facility - Price: $99
Essential Life Safety Protocols and Emergency Preparedness in Senior Living
These IHCA Bootcamps are designed to help both new and experienced maintenance leaders and Administrators navigate the complexities of Life Safety and Emergency Preparedness compliance. Led by former State Life Safety and Emergency Preparedness Surveyor Linda Chaney, this training provides practical insight into current survey trends, the most frequently cited deficiencies in Idaho, and strategies to help facilities stay organized and survey-ready.
Over the past few decades, life safety and emergency preparedness in senior living facilities have gained significant attention, particularly in the wake of major incidents such as devasting hurricanes, impactful facility fires in Tennessee and Connecticut, and a growing number of resident elopements. In response to these challenges, the CMS implemented the NFPA 2012 Life Safety Code more than eight years ago as well as comprehensive Emergency Preparedness requirements to better ensure facilities to are fully prepared and compliant. One of the results has been increased scrutiny and, unfortunately, a rise in deficiencies.
This day-long seminar is designed specifically for long-term care providers, guiding them through the survey process and clarifying key aspects to Life Safety Code requirements. Kenn will offer invaluable insights into preparing for a Life Safety Code survey and fostering productive interactions with surveyors. He will also provide expert guidance on ensuring compliance with the inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) protocols essential for both Life Safety and Emergency Preparedness standards.
Using real-world examples and survey scenarios, Kenn will demonstrate how these codes are applied in practice, highlight the latest code interpretations, and discuss the growing ITM requirements that facilities must meet. The Life Safety Code sets minimum standards for critical systems like fire protection, emergency generators, door operations, and overall building services—standards that are vital for protecting the safety of residents and staff alike.
Linda will walk participants through the expected ITM practices, explaining the necessary documentation required to ensure a successful survey outcome. By the end of the session, attendees will be equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complexities of Life Safety Code compliance and improve their facility’s safety performance.
Effective disaster management is more critical than ever for senior living facilities. Disasters are defined as events that overwhelm an organization’s ability to respond effectively using its existing resources. Successful response requires extensive coordination and efficient management. Our nation’s leading expert will share valuable insights on how proactive disaster preparedness can prevent injury, save lives, and protect property, finances, and resources.
Linda will review the specific CMS requirements for Emergency Preparedness plans and discuss how facility leadership plays a pivotal role in developing and implementing innovative, multi-disciplinary disaster response strategies. A well-prepared leadership team is essential for reducing losses, ensuring rapid recovery, and ultimately safeguarding the well-being of residents and staff during emergencies.