Failure to Prevent Presence of Gnats in Kitchen Area
Penalty
Summary
During an observation in the kitchen area, four small black flying insects identified as gnats were found below the sink. The Dietary Manager confirmed that these insects were gnats and acknowledged that food particles could attract them. The facility's policy and procedure on pest control requires an ongoing program to keep the building free of insects and rodents. However, the presence of gnats in the kitchen indicated that the facility failed to ensure the kitchen was free from pests as required by their policy. This deficiency was identified through observation, interview, and review of the facility's pest control policy, which mandates maintaining a pest-free environment to prevent contamination and uphold food safety standards.
Plan Of Correction
Ftag=925 Maintains an effective pest control program so that the facility is free pest and rodents. Immediate corrective action: On 4/28/25, the Dietary Supervisor deep cleaned the dietary areas including floors, walls, ceilings, drains, behind/under equipment. On 4/28/25, the Dietary Supervisor discarded all contaminated and exposed food and sanitized affected surfaces. The Dietary Supervisor on 5/5/25, 5/6/25, 5/8/25, and 5/20/25 provided an in-service to the dietary staff regarding the facility's "Pest Control Policy," emphasizing thorough cleaning and keeping the kitchen area free from flies/gnats. On 4/28/25, the Dietary Supervisor contacted the Pest Control Company. On 4/29/25, the Pest Control Company rendered treatment to the affected area as per guidelines. Identification of others at risk: Pest Control Company rendered treatment to the kitchen area, and no other deficient practices were noted. Process to prevent recurrence: The Dietary Supervisor provided an in-service to the dietary staff regarding the facility's "Pest Control Policy," emphasizing thorough cleaning and keeping the kitchen area free from flies/gnats. The Dietary Supervisor scheduled deep cleaning of the dietary areas twice a week, including floors, walls, ceilings, drains, behind/under equipment. The Pest Control Company is scheduled to come monthly and will be called as needed. Monitoring process: The Administrator will conduct monthly reviews of findings with the Dietary Supervisor. Any deficient practices identified will be discussed during the monthly CQI/QA meeting for further recommendation and resolution for three months.