03/19/2026

You Asked... We Answered

You Asked: Are nursing homes required to complete an annual infrared scanning of electrical panels (per the 2023 NFPA 70B)?

We Answered: No. At this time, CMS has not adopted the newer 2023 editions of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Nursing homes are currently surveyed under the 2012 version of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 101 Life Safety Code (LSC), and NFPA 99 Healthcare Facilities Code, which the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has adopted.

While infrared (thermographic) scanning of electrical panels was recommended in earlier guidance, it did not become a more formalized requirement until the 2023 edition of NFPA 70B. Because CMS has not adopted this newer standard, facilities are not required to perform annual infrared scanning for compliance with federal regulations.

Facilities may choose to implement infrared scanning as a best practice for preventive maintenance and risk reduction, but it is not currently a survey requirement. This could change in the future if CMS adopts updated NFPA standards. Additional guidance is available in the newly updated Preventative Maintenance Manual for Long-term Care Facilities 2026.