Failure to Seal Entry Points and Maintain Effective Pest Control
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program by not repairing and sealing holes and gaps that allowed pests to enter a resident's room and common areas. A cognitively intact resident reported ongoing issues with roaches in her room, despite repeated pest control treatments. Observations confirmed a visible gap under the heating and air unit in her room, missing caulk, and a hole in the bathroom drywall around a water pipe, all of which were unsealed and provided entry points for pests. Facility records and pest control logs documented multiple instances of ants and roaches found in the resident's room over several months. Staff interviews corroborated the presence of live and dead roaches in the room and bathroom, with reports that the resident often left open snacks, which could attract pests. The Maintenance Director acknowledged being aware of the pest issues and the need to seal entry points but cited being too busy to complete all necessary repairs, as he was responsible for all maintenance with only part-time assistance. Further inspection revealed that several common area exit doors also had visible gaps due to worn or missing weather stripping, allowing light and potentially pests to enter from outside. The pest control technician confirmed that effective pest management required sealing these gaps and had communicated the need for repairs to the Maintenance Director. However, not all areas identified as needing sealing were addressed, and the Administrator was not fully informed of all required repairs, contributing to the ongoing pest problem.