Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program, resulting in a persistent gnat infestation affecting multiple residents and areas within the building. Observations revealed that several residents had tiny flying insects swarming around their faces, meals, and bathrooms, with one resident reporting the issue had persisted for weeks. Staff interviews confirmed awareness of the problem, with housekeepers and maintenance staff attempting to address the infestation using chemicals, traps, and homemade remedies. Despite these efforts, the presence of gnats continued in resident rooms, bathrooms, the shower area, and even in the dietary meal cart, as noted by both staff and residents. Documentation review showed that pest control service reports did not identify fly activity during their inspection, and maintenance requests had been made regarding fly infestations. Staff interviews indicated uncertainty about the pest control company's involvement in addressing the issue, and the problem was reported to have been ongoing since at least April. The deficiency affected at least seven residents directly and had the potential to impact all residents in the facility.