Failure to Maintain Clean PTAC Air Filters in Resident Rooms
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a clean, sanitary, and comfortable environment in three of thirteen resident rooms, as evidenced by heavily soiled PTAC (Packaged Terminal Air Conditioner) air filters. Observations revealed that the air filters in these rooms were covered with a thick accumulation of dust, dirt, and debris, turning the originally white filters dark gray and releasing visible dust clouds when handled. The facility's own PTAC Preventative Maintenance Guide and HVAC cleaning procedures require regular cleaning or replacement of air filters and vent screens, but these protocols were not followed for the affected rooms. Interviews with housekeeping staff indicated that while they cleaned the PTAC grills daily, they did not clean the air filters themselves. The Director of Housekeeping and the Director of Maintenance confirmed that maintenance staff were responsible for cleaning the air filters, but only cleaned the grills as needed. This lack of adherence to established cleaning protocols resulted in the accumulation of contaminants in the PTAC units, compromising the cleanliness and comfort of the resident environment.