Failure to Maintain Kitchen Sanitation and Food Safety Standards
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to maintain proper sanitation and safety standards in the kitchen and food storage areas. Specifically, a large overhead ceiling vent in the main kitchen was found to be covered with dirt and dust particles, and an attic ceiling trap door above the outside kitchen patio area, where two food storage freezers were located, was not fully closed. Additionally, in the dish room above the dish machine conveyor belt, there was a section of ceiling with exposed and peeling paint, with the potential for paint particles to fall onto clean dishware. These conditions were directly observed during a walkthrough with the Food Service Director. Interviews with facility staff confirmed that the issues had been previously identified but not addressed in a timely manner. The Food Service Director acknowledged the potential for dirt, dust, and paint particles to contaminate food or clean dishware, and stated that work orders had been placed for some, but not all, of the deficiencies. The Maintenance Director confirmed receipt of a work order for the kitchen ceiling vent and noted that the dish room ceiling issue had been documented previously. Facility policy and federal food code require that non-food-contact surfaces be kept free of dust, dirt, and other contaminants, and that kitchen facilities be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition.