Failure to Maintain Sanitary Food Storage and Kitchen Conditions
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple failures in the facility's kitchen and food storage areas to maintain sanitary conditions and proper food storage practices. Specifically, food debris was found under the three-compartment sink, and dirt and debris were present under the prep table. A metal storage rack above the prep table was covered in dirt and dust, and an uncovered cake was placed directly beneath this dirty rack. The refrigerator handles were sticky, a black substance was noted along the dish room floor drain, and a dust-covered fan was blowing across a tray with open glasses containing ice. Additionally, the trash can by the prep table lacked a lid, and a window near the prep table was dirty. In the dry storage area, a box of canned baked beans was stored directly on the floor. In the freezer, several opened packages of food items, including sausage patties, chicken patties, and French toast sticks, were undated and not properly sealed. Interviews with staff, including a dietary staff member, the Dietary Manager, the Registered Dietitian, and the Administrator, confirmed that food should be dated, stored in closed containers, and the kitchen should be kept clean and sanitary. Staff acknowledged that maintaining cleanliness is a shared responsibility, but sometimes tasks are overlooked. The facility's own policy requires the dining services manager to ensure cleaning and sanitation, with all staff trained on cleaning frequency and a posted cleaning schedule, but these standards were not met as evidenced by the observed unsanitary conditions and improper food storage.