Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 18.20.525 — Disaster preparedness plan., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18.20.525. Disaster preparedness plan.
(1) Each assisted living facility shall develop and maintain a comprehensive disaster preparedness plan to be followed in the event of a disaster or emergency, including fires, earthquakes, floods, extreme heat, extreme cold, infectious disease outbreaks, loss of power or water, and other events that may require sheltering in place, evacuations, or other emergency measures to protect the health and safety of residents. The facility shall review the comprehensive disaster preparedness plan annually, update the plan as needed, and train all employees when they begin work in the facility on the comprehensive disaster preparedness plan and related staff procedures.
(2) The department shall adopt rules governing the comprehensive disaster preparedness plan. At a minimum, the rules must address: Timely communication with the residents' emergency contacts; timely communication with state and local agencies, long-term care ombuds, and developmental disabilities ombuds; contacting and requesting emergency assistance; on-duty employees' responsibilities; meeting residents' essential needs; procedures to identify and locate residents; and procedures to provide emergency information to provide for the health and safety of residents. In addition, the rules shall establish standards for maintaining personal protective equipment and infection control capabilities, as well as department inspection procedures with respect to the plans.
(3) For assisted living facilities certified as memory care facilities or memory care units under RCW
18.20.540, comprehensive disaster preparedness plans must specifically consider the needs of residents with dementia.
Notes
Findings—Intent—Construction—Application—Requirements of chapter 70.129 RCW—2025 c 187: See notes following RCW
18.20.540.
Findings—2021 c 159: See note following RCW
18.20.520.
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 18.20.525
What does Revised Code of Washington § 18.20.525 cover?
Section 18.20.525 ("Disaster preparedness plan.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Washington § 18.20.525?
A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 18.20.525" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Washington law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.
How does Washington § 18.20.525 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Washington.
