Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement an effective pest control program, as evidenced by the presence of flies in the kitchen. During an observation with the Dietary Supervisor, flies were seen flying around and landing on kitchen counters, food processors, cooking utensils, dishes, and food. The Dietary Supervisor confirmed the presence of flies and acknowledged the risk of food contamination. The Maintenance Supervisor also confirmed the ongoing fly problem in the kitchen and stated that the last pest control service was conducted earlier in the month, but the issue persisted. Further interviews with the Registered Dietitian and the Director of Nursing confirmed the infestation of flies in the kitchen and the potential for food contamination. The facility's policy required maintenance to ensure insects were not present and to contact the outside vendor for additional treatments if insects were found. Despite monthly pest control services, the flies remained, indicating the measures taken were not effective in maintaining a pest-free environment in the kitchen.