Overflowing Waste Equipment Creates Unsanitary and Unsafe Environment
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to maintain a sanitary and comfortable environment by allowing waste equipment in the waste disposal area to overflow, resulting in waste spilling onto the ground. During a facility tour, surveyors observed overflowing trash bins with garbage spilling out, and a maintenance staff member was seen standing on top of the trash bin attempting to press down the garbage. The maintenance staff member acknowledged that trash was not supposed to overflow and that lids should remain shut to prevent exposure, noting that overflowing waste could attract pests and pose a fire hazard. The Director of Nursing confirmed that maintenance staff should not have climbed on the overflowing waste equipment due to the risk of injury and agreed that overflowing trash was an environmental hazard that could cause unpleasant odors and attract pests, potentially exposing residents, staff, visitors, and the public to infectious diseases. Review of facility policies indicated requirements for maintaining a safe, sanitary, and homelike environment, as well as proper maintenance of buildings and grounds, which were not followed in this instance.