Failure to Maintain Safe Cooking Equipment Positioning and Restraints
Penalty
Summary
During a facility tour, surveyors observed a natural gas six-burner/griddle stove on wheels in the kitchen that was not equipped with chock devices to ensure proper alignment with the fire suppression system nozzles when the appliance was moved for cleaning or service. The absence of these chock devices meant that the required protection by the suppression system could not be guaranteed if the stove was not returned to its designated position after being moved. Additionally, the movable stove was not provided with a chain or restraint to prevent overextension of the gas line, as required by relevant NFPA standards. This lack of a restraining device could allow the gas line to be stretched or damaged during movement, which is not in compliance with the manufacturer's installation instructions and applicable codes. These deficiencies were confirmed through interviews with the Regional Maintenance Director and the Maintenance Director at the time of observation. The findings indicated that the facility failed to maintain its cooking facilities in accordance with multiple sections of NFPA 101, NFPA 54, NFPA 96, and NFPA 17A, potentially affecting all 39 residents in the facility.
Plan Of Correction
Tag: K 0324 The natural gas 6 burner griddle stove has been equipped with both chock devices and restraint to prevent over extension of gas line as of 6/20/25. There are no other natural gas moveable stoves in the facility. The administrator provided education to maintenance director on 6/16/25 regarding requirements NFPA 101 cooking facilities. The maintenance director or designee will audit the natural gas 6 burner griddle stove to ensure proper equipment and restraint weekly for the next 4 weeks. Results of the audit will be submitted to the QAPI committee for review and recommendations.