Failure to Clean and Maintain Ice Machine Resulting in Potential Contamination
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that the ice machine and its components were properly cleaned and sanitized, affecting 87 of 90 residents who received ice from the machine. During an unannounced visit, surveyors observed multiple black and brown flakes on paper towels swiped along the inside bin of the ice machine, as well as dust, brown stains, and pest legs on the exterior. Water was found leaking from the plastic pipes, with runoff spilling onto the floor, and there was no indication of when the water filters had last been replaced. The Dietary Supervisor confirmed that the inside of the ice machine was supposed to be cleaned monthly and the exterior wiped down weekly, but was unsure of the last service date or water filter replacement. Interviews with the Director of Nursing and the maintenance supervisor revealed further issues. The DON observed the black and brown flecks and identified them as coming from the deteriorating rubber lining of the ice dispenser, which was cracking and breaking down. The DON also noted that water should not be leaking onto the floor and that the pipes needed to be secured. The maintenance supervisor stated that the ice machine was serviced by an outside company twice a year and that water filters were changed every six months, but admitted to not dating the filters and forgetting to activate the filter timer. The kitchen staff were responsible for daily cleaning, but the observed conditions indicated this was not being done consistently. A review of facility policies and manufacturer recommendations confirmed that the ice machine should be cleaned and sanitized monthly, with water filters replaced every six months or as needed. The policies also required all equipment to be kept clean, maintained in good repair, and free from breaks, corrosion, cracks, and chipped areas. Pest control was to be conducted monthly. Despite these requirements, the observed presence of dirt, pest remnants, deteriorating rubber, and undated water filters demonstrated a failure to follow established cleaning and maintenance protocols for the ice machine.