Dietary Staff Failed to Wear Beard Net While Handling Food and Drinks
Penalty
Summary
During a kitchen observation, a dietary aide was seen working near uncovered prepared foods on the steam table and handling drinks for residents without wearing a beard net, despite having facial hair approximately one fourth inch in length on his chin. The aide was observed scooping ice and pouring drinks to be served to residents, with his facial hair uncovered in the food preparation area. Interviews with the Dietary Manager and Assistant Director of Nursing confirmed that facility policy and professional standards require all staff to wear hair restraints, including beard nets, when in the kitchen or around food and drinks. A review of the facility's Food Safety & Sanitation policy and Indiana Food Establishment Sanitation Requirements further supported the need for proper hair restraints to prevent hair from contacting exposed food. This failure had the potential to affect all residents receiving food from the kitchen.