Failure to Ensure Proper Hair Restraints During Food Preparation and Service
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that all dietary staff properly restrained their hair while preparing and serving food in the kitchen. During observations, the Dietary Manager (DM) was seen with unrestrained hair on both sides of her neck, approximately 3 to 4 inches long, while operating the dish machine and walking by food preparation areas. Later, during lunch service, the DM continued to have unrestrained hair while placing soup in bowls. Another kitchen staff member was observed plating food with a section of unrestrained hair on top of her head and a long braid not contained within her hair net. Both staff members only secured their hair and washed their hands after being prompted by the surveyor. Interviews confirmed that the DM was responsible for ensuring staff compliance with hair restraint policies and acknowledged that unsecured hair could fall into food. The facility's policy and the FDA Food Code require food employees to wear effective hair restraints to prevent contamination. The Administrator stated that her expectation was for all kitchen staff to wear hair nets while serving food or working in the kitchen.