Personal Cell Phone Found in Food Preparation Area by Dietary Staff
Penalty
Summary
During an observation in the facility's kitchen, a dietary aide (DA) was found to have her personal cell phone placed in the food preparation area. The DA was seen reaching for her cell phone, which was located on a surface used for food preparation. Upon interview, the DA acknowledged that the cell phone belonged to her and admitted it should not have been in the food preparation area. The Registered Dietician (RD) confirmed during an interview that personal items, including cell phones, must be kept away from food preparation areas to prevent cross-contamination. A review of the facility's policy and procedure on Sanitation and Infection Control indicated that all employee personal belongings, such as clothing, food, and cell phones, should be stored in a separate area away from food or items used in food service. The failure to follow this policy was observed with the DA's cell phone being present in the food preparation area, which did not comply with the facility's infection control and sanitation standards.