Improper Garbage Disposal and Overflowing Dumpsters Create Sanitation Deficiency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to properly dispose of garbage and refuse, as evidenced by observations of an uncovered blue dumpster overflowing with cardboard boxes stacked above the rim, additional piles of cardboard on the ground next to a second dumpster, and two piles of cardboard boxes on the concrete walkway outside the kitchen back door. These conditions were directly observed during a site visit, and photographic evidence confirmed the presence of uncovered and overflowing dumpsters as well as littered areas adjacent to the kitchen. Interviews with facility staff, including the Certified Dietary Manager (CDM), Infection Preventionist (IP) Nurse, Registered Dietician (RD), Director of Nurses (DON), and Administrator (ADM), revealed that the facility routinely experienced issues with garbage accumulation, particularly on Mondays following multiple departmental deliveries. Staff acknowledged that the dumpsters were often too full to accommodate all waste, leading to overflow and improper storage of refuse. The CDM and IP Nurse both noted that the homeless population sometimes rummaged through the dumpsters, leaving them uncovered and contributing to the problem. The RD, who provided services remotely, confirmed that she was unable to conduct required sanitation inspections, and the ADM acknowledged that the facility did not meet its own policy expectations for garbage disposal and area cleanliness. A review of facility policies, job descriptions, and a recent sanitation audit further substantiated the deficiency. The facility's policy required all garbage containers to have tight-fitting lids and to be kept covered, and outside dumpsters to be closed and free of surrounding litter. The sanitation audit and job descriptions for key staff emphasized the importance of maintaining sanitary conditions and conducting regular inspections. Despite these requirements, the facility did not ensure that garbage was properly contained and disposed of, resulting in unsanitary conditions with the potential to attract pests and create cross-contamination risks for the food prepared for nearly all residents.