Deficient Food Service Equipment Maintenance and Food Cooling Practices
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple deficiencies in the facility's food service operations, including improper maintenance and cleaning of equipment, and inadequate food cooling practices. The Accutemp Steamer was found with a drain line directly submerged into a sewer drainpipe, violating backflow prevention standards. There was a significant build-up of grease, grime, and food debris behind and under cooking equipment, and the can opener blade and some pans on the clean storage shelving were soiled with stuck-on food residue. The Kelvinator 3-door line cooler was out of service and not available for cold food storage, and a 3-door cooler had a burnt-out light bulb, reducing required light intensity. The ice machine filter lacked a date mark, and the Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) was unsure when it was last replaced. The walk-in freezer and cooler floors had food residue and debris, and condensation droplets were observed on food container lids, indicating possible cooling issues. Further review revealed that containers of Sloppy Joes and Ravioli in the walk-in cooler were not properly documented for cooling, as required by policy, and the daily temperature log did not include cooling records for these items. The nutritional refrigerator in the dining room was found with soiled and sticky shelving. These observations affected 75 residents and increased the likelihood of cross-contamination and bacterial harborage due to improper cleaning, maintenance, and food handling practices. The deficiencies were identified through direct observation, interviews with the CDM, and review of facility records and logs.