Improper Air Gap Installation on Ice Machine Drain Lines
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to ensure proper installation of plumbing fixtures to prevent backflow, as required by the Maine State Plumbing Code. Specifically, on multiple consecutive days, the drain lines of two ice machines—one in the hallway leading to the kitchen and one in the kitchen—were found to have improper air gaps, resulting in a direct connection between wastewater and potable water. This was in violation of state regulations, which require an air-gap separation of at least one inch. The deficiency was confirmed with the Food Service Director on each visit, and while the vegetable sink had the proper air gap, the ice machines continued to lack the required separation throughout the survey period. No information about residents or their medical conditions was included in the report, and the deficiency was based solely on environmental observations and staff interviews.