Failure to Maintain Kitchen Cleanliness and Sanitation
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to maintain the kitchen in a clean and sanitary condition, as required by professional standards. During inspections, all 26 storage crates in the kitchen were found to be soiled with light and dark gray substances both inside the openings and on the outside surfaces. Additionally, the wall behind the storage rack for clean pots and pans was visibly soiled, and the return heating and air ventilation cover was also dirty. The facility was unable to provide a policy for kitchen procedures during the survey. Interviews with the Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) and the Maintenance Director confirmed these findings. The CDM, who had been employed since May 2025, stated that the storage crates had not been washed since her start date and acknowledged that the wall behind the clean pots and pans should be cleaned. She also indicated uncertainty regarding the division of cleaning responsibilities between housekeeping and maintenance staff in the kitchen. The Maintenance Director confirmed the soiled condition of the ventilation cover and explained that he worked alone and relied on staff to inform him of additional needs, including those in the kitchen.