Failure to Maintain Swamp Coolers in Safe and Operable Condition
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain swamp coolers in a safe and operable manner for two of three sampled residents. Observations revealed that swamp coolers in use in residents' rooms did not have water in their tanks, and both residents reported that the facility had not cleaned or changed the filters or water tanks since the coolers were placed in their rooms. One resident stated the cooler had not been maintained for at least a month, while the other indicated no maintenance had occurred since admission. Interviews with facility staff, including the administrator, interim Maintenance Director, and Infection Preventionist, confirmed that there was no scheduled maintenance or cleaning time for the swamp coolers. Review of facility policy indicated that the maintenance director was responsible for developing and maintaining a schedule of maintenance service and that maintenance personnel should follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. However, no such schedule or records existed for the swamp coolers, resulting in the deficient practice.