Improper Kitchen Sanitization and Lack of Beard Restraints
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure proper sanitization procedures were followed in the main kitchen, specifically regarding the use of the three-compartment sink. Surveyors observed that the bottles for quaternary sanitizer and pot/pan detergent above the sink were empty, and staff were using Dawn dish detergent instead of the required chemical sanitizing solutions. Staff confirmed that pots, pans, and kitchen utensils were hand washed with Dawn and water, and these items were not always sent through the dishwasher for proper sanitization, contrary to facility policy. Additionally, there was no thermometer available to check water temperature, and items were rinsed for less than 30 seconds before being set to dry, which does not meet the required sanitization standards outlined in facility policy. The facility also failed to ensure that employees wore appropriate beard restraints while preparing food. Observations revealed that a cook with a beard was not wearing a beard cover, and beard restraints were not available at the kitchen entrance or in the office. Interviews with dietary staff and directors confirmed that beard covers were required for beards longer than a specified length, but staff were not consistently following this policy. These failures had the potential to affect all 76 residents who received meals from the main kitchen.