After January 1, 1993, the Commissioner shall not issue a license to or renew the license of any nursing facility or nursing home, regardless of when such institution was constructed, unless the nursing facility or nursing home is equipped with a fire suppression system which complies with the regulations of the Board of Housing and Community Development. Units consisting of certified long-term care beds described in this section and § 36-99.9 located on the ground floor of general hospitals shall be exempt from the requirements of this section.