Unsafe and Non-Functional Kitchen Equipment and Infrastructure
Penalty
Summary
Essential equipment in the food and nutrition services department was found to be in unsafe and non-functional condition. The dish machine was not reaching the required final rinse temperature of 180 degrees Fahrenheit, with observed readings at only 150 degrees. The booster heater for the dish machine was confirmed to be non-functional, and the water softener had not been working for months. The three compartment sinks were in disrepair, with one well unable to hold water and leaking from the stopper, piping, and mechanisms underneath. The garbage disposal adjacent to the sinks was not operating according to manufacturer specifications, spewing water onto the floor, which had deep grooves and missing grout due to water damage. The grease trap in the same area was out of commission and covered with soggy plywood, further saturated by continuous leaks and water from the broken disposal. Additionally, the metal doors leading directly outdoors from the kitchen hallway were not sealing properly, leaving visible gaps at the threshold. These deficiencies were confirmed through interviews with the administrator and the director of dietary services, who acknowledged that the dish washer, booster heater, water softener, garbage disposal, three compartment sink, grease trap, and metal doors were not maintained in safe mechanical and operational condition. No information about residents' medical history or condition was provided in the report.