Hazardous Chemical Left Unsecured in Unlocked Utility Room
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a bottle of Lysol toilet bowl cleaner was found sitting on the counter in an unlocked soiled utility room in hall A, with some of the cleaner spilled on the countertop. This area was accessible and not secured, potentially affecting 16 of 29 residents in that hall. The maintenance director confirmed the presence of the hazardous chemical and was unable to recall the last time the utility rooms were checked, noting that hazardous chemicals are supposed to be stored in a locked closet. The nurse consultant and administrator stated that staff are expected to keep all hazardous chemicals locked away from resident areas. Facility policy requires ongoing assessment for hazards and measures to prevent resident access to hazardous areas.