Improper Disposal and Maintenance of Trash Compactor Area
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure the area surrounding the large outside trash compactor was free from refuse and trash debris during the survey. Observations revealed numerous pieces of trash, including used plastic gloves, full bags of opened trash, soiled Styrofoam containers, plastic straws, and crumpled napkins and paper scattered on the ground around the compactor. The compactor door was closed, but debris was present on all sides. The Maintenance Director acknowledged ongoing issues with trash accumulation in the area, noting that trash comes from all departments and that staff are educated on proper disposal. Additionally, the presence of ducks in the area was mentioned as a contributing factor. There was no documentation of continued monitoring of the compactor area, and the facility's trash compactor policy did not specify routine cleaning or maintenance of the surrounding area.