Unsanitary Kitchen Conditions Due to Rusty Vents and Stained Ceiling Tiles
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to maintain sanitary conditions in the kitchen and adjacent dining areas. Specifically, large ceiling vent coverings above the serving steam table and in the dishwashing room were found to be rusty, dirty, and covered with flakey black debris. Additionally, six ceiling tiles in the main kitchen and two in the dining areas were noted to have water stains ranging from baseball to softball size. These unsanitary conditions were confirmed by staff during interviews, who acknowledged the presence of rust, debris, and water stains, and admitted that the areas had not been properly cleaned or replaced. Staff interviews revealed a lack of knowledge regarding the last time the vents and ceiling tiles were cleaned, and it was confirmed that the maintenance staff was responsible for their upkeep. The maintenance staff member admitted to painting over a vent cover instead of replacing it and acknowledged that both the tiles and vent coverings should have been maintained in a sanitary condition. The administrator also confirmed awareness of the unsanitary conditions and agreed that the necessary replacements had not been made. The deficiency had the potential to affect 64 residents who were served meals from the kitchen.