Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control in Dietary Department
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program in the dietary department, as evidenced by multiple observations and documentation. During an inspection of the main kitchen, significant accumulations of food debris, dirt, cooking grease, and rodent droppings were found throughout the perimeter and especially under industrial-sized food service equipment such as ovens, stoves, grills, preparation tables, tray-line assembly areas, refrigerators, juice machines, and dry food storage shelves. The facility's pest control policy assigns responsibility to the food service director to address pest issues and requires a pest control contractor to perform preventative treatments and document all visits and actions taken. However, the observed conditions indicated a lack of effective implementation of this policy. Additionally, the metal doors leading to the loading and receiving area adjacent to the food and nutrition services department did not seal properly, leaving air gaps that allowed easy access for pests and rodents. Outside, the trash and refuse dumpster area was found to be malodorous, with the dumpster left open and surrounded by torn plastic bags of trash, soiled briefs, food debris, papers, and plastic gloves scattered around the driveway. Pest control operator reports from January through April documented ongoing treatment needs for rodents in the kitchen and front lobby, further indicating persistent pest issues in these areas.