Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program, resulting in the presence of mice and evidence of infestation in both resident rooms and the kitchen. Observations revealed mouse traps in the kitchen, visible food remnants and debris on the kitchen and storage room floors, and mouse feces in the dry food storage area. Multiple residents reported seeing mice in their rooms, finding mouse droppings in personal storage areas such as dresser drawers, and experiencing distress due to these encounters. Staff interviews confirmed that residents often kept snacks in their rooms, particularly in dresser drawers, which were accessible to mice through predrilled holes. Record reviews indicated that the facility had ongoing issues with mice, as documented in resident council minutes and pest control service reports. The pest control vendor identified breeding sites within the walls and recommended exclusion work and reduction of food sources. Despite the implementation of audits and monitoring, the plan of correction did not address all potential food sources, such as the kitchen back door being left open and residents' snacks stored in rooms. Additionally, the duration and continuation of audits were unclear, and some cleaning and monitoring activities were not consistently maintained. Staff interviews highlighted lapses in communication and delegation regarding pest control responsibilities. Some staff were unaware of ongoing audits or their roles in pest prevention, and there was inconsistency in kitchen cleanliness and audit documentation. The maintenance director noted repeated reminders to keep the kitchen back door closed, as it was a known entry point for mice, but staff continued to leave it open for ventilation. The presence of food debris, open access points, and inconsistent monitoring contributed to the facility's failure to prevent and eliminate the mouse infestation.