Improper Garbage Disposal and Dumpster Area Maintenance
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to properly dispose of garbage and maintain the cleanliness of the dumpster area, as observed on multiple occasions. Rubbish was found scattered around the three dumpsters, and several staff members, including a housekeeper, dietary aides, and a laundry aide, were observed disposing of trash without closing the dumpster lids. Staff acknowledged awareness of the requirement to keep lids closed to prevent pests and contamination but did not consistently follow this protocol. The Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) indicated that housekeeping was responsible for maintaining the area, and the Environmental Services Regional Manager confirmed the importance of keeping the area clean and lids closed. The facility's policy on garbage disposal required that all garbage be disposed of safely and efficiently, with the CDM and Director of Maintenance responsible for ensuring the area around the dumpsters remained free of debris. Despite this policy, repeated failures to close dumpster lids and maintain the area were observed, with staff admitting to not following procedures even though they understood their importance. No specific residents were directly involved or affected at the time of the observations, but the deficiency had the potential to impact all 112 residents in the facility.