Failure to Maintain Safe and Functional Kitchen Equipment
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified that essential kitchen equipment was not maintained in safe working order. During multiple observations, refrigerator #3 in the back room was found to be operating at 51°F, with food items inside that were warm to the touch, indicating improper cold storage. Refrigerator #4 was unplugged and being used to store dry goods, despite being labeled as a refrigerator. The facility dietary manager was unaware of the malfunctioning refrigerator, and temperature logs did not reflect the actual temperature observed. Additionally, the kitchen's ice machine was not operational, and staff relied on other units to provide ice to residents. Work orders for repairs were pending at the time of the survey. Further investigation revealed that the main dining room ice machine was also not functioning. An anonymous complaint indicated that staff often told residents the ice machine was broken when they requested ice water. The Director of Maintenance was unaware of the issue with the main dining room ice machine, and direct observation confirmed it was not dispensing ice. These findings demonstrate a failure to ensure that essential kitchen equipment was kept in safe and functional condition, as required.