Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program, as evidenced by repeated observations and documentation of cockroach activity and unsanitary conditions. Pest control invoices from February to April 2025 consistently noted sanitation issues in the kitchen, such as spilled food material on the floor that remained untouched for months, as well as structural concerns like loose or missing floor tiles, baseboards, and gaps near doors and equipment. Despite the pest control service not observing cockroach activity during their visits, the facility's pest activity logs recorded multiple sightings of cockroaches in various areas, including resident rooms, activity rooms, nursing stations, and conference rooms. Direct observations by staff and surveyors further confirmed the presence of live cockroaches in the facility. On several occasions, live roaches were seen in the kitchen, CDM's office, hallways, and resident rooms. Staff interviews revealed that sightings were not always reported, and there was a lack of consistent communication between the pest control technician, maintenance, and dietary staff regarding problem areas and necessary cleaning or repairs. The pest control technician reported that identified issues, such as spilled food and structural gaps, had not been addressed over several months, and that staff did not accompany him during his visits to ensure follow-up on recommendations. Maintenance staff indicated that some repairs had been made, such as sealing holes and replacing tiles and baseboards, but these repairs were often incomplete, with visible gaps remaining. There was also a lack of documentation or work orders to verify completed repairs. The kitchen continued to have food debris and structural deficiencies, and staff reported ongoing sightings of cockroaches, particularly in the kitchen and tray line areas. The lack of effective coordination and follow-through on pest control recommendations contributed to the ongoing pest problem within the facility.