Failure to Properly Air-Dry and Store Kitchenware
Penalty
Summary
Kitchen staff failed to thoroughly clean and air-dry plates and pans prior to storage, as observed during a survey. Specifically, five six-inch plates and multiple pans of various sizes were found stacked while still wet, indicating they had not been allowed to air-dry as required by facility policy. The Food Service Manager (FSM) confirmed during interviews that these items should have been dry before being stacked or put away, acknowledging that proper procedures were not followed. Review of the facility's policies titled 'Pot/Pan Washing and Sanitation' and 'Dishwashing' revealed clear instructions that all equipment, utensils, and dishes must be air-dried before storage and never dried with a dish towel. The failure to adhere to these procedures had the potential to affect 61 of 66 residents who received dietary services, as it compromised the sanitary handling of food service items.