The bill H. 5164 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 44-7-255, which provides specific exceptions to fire and building codes for the placement of hospital beds in hallways, corridors, or other means of egress during justified emergencies. A "justified emergency" is defined to include various scenarios such as declared states of emergency, natural or manmade disasters, mass transit accidents, and outbreaks of contagious diseases, among others. The bill outlines the conditions under which patient beds may be utilized in these areas, requiring documentation from the onsite emergency department physician to confirm that all other treatment spaces have been exhausted and that patient safety is at risk without the use of beds in these locations.

Additionally, the bill mandates that hospitals maintain records of instances when justified emergencies occur and beds are used in hallways or corridors, with copies of the documentation to be submitted quarterly to the Department of Public Health. It also emphasizes the importance of maintaining clear pathways and not obstructing fire protection systems during such emergencies. Hospitals are required to develop written protocols for handling justified emergency conditions and ensure that all relevant staff are familiar with these procedures. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
02/11/2026: 44-7-255
Latest Version: 44-7-255