Last week, CMS released a revised S&C: 17-15-LSC Use of the Fire Safety Evaluation System (FSES) memo. The revised memo grants a two-year extension to a specific group of existing Time Limited Waivers (TLW). This benefits providers who have historically utilized a Fire Safety Evaluation System (FSES) to show equivalent compliance with the Life Safety Code®, and to meet fire safety requirements for certification with Medicare and Medicaid programs. Previously, CMS had granted a five-year TLW to organizations directly affected by an FSES scoring change. However, many of those waivers are due to expire by the end of this year. By granting the extension, providers will now have until November 1, 2023 to come into compliance with the Life Safety Code®. This provides important relief to organizations with waivers on the brink of expiration. However, a new FSES will be required to be completed and submitted after each annual survey is conducted.