Expired Food Handler Certificates Among Dietary Staff
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide sufficient support personnel to safely and effectively carry out the functions of the food and nutrition service, as evidenced by three dietary staff members working with expired food handler certificates. Review of records showed that the food handler certificates for these staff members had expired in January 2025, and they continued to work full-time in the kitchen after their certifications had lapsed. Interviews revealed that the dietary manager was aware of the need for certificate renewal but did not ensure the process was completed, relying instead on staff to maintain their own certifications. The dietary manager acknowledged not following through to verify that renewals were completed, and the administrator stated that it was expected for staff to have valid certificates within 30 days of hire and before expiration. The facility's policy required ongoing education and training to ensure staff had the appropriate competencies for food and nutrition services. However, the lack of current food handler certificates for these dietary staff members indicated a failure to adhere to this policy. The deficiency was identified through record review and staff interviews, with the dietary manager and administrator both confirming the lapse in oversight and compliance with certification requirements.