Improper Use of Facial Hair Restraints During Food Service
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified in the facility's memory unit satellite kitchen regarding improper use of facial hair restraints by dietary staff during food plating. Observations on two separate occasions showed a CNA plating meals while wearing a facial hair restraint that covered his chin but not his moustache. The CNA only adjusted the restraint to cover his moustache after noticing the presence of a State Surveyor. The CNA acknowledged during an interview that he was aware of the requirement to cover all facial hair while handling food, but stated the restraint often fell off or got caught on his name tag, leading to improper use. The Dietary Manager confirmed that all staff working in the satellite kitchens, including CNAs, were required to have food handler certification and to wear hair restraints that properly cover all facial hair, including moustaches, during food service. The Dietary Manager also stated that improper use of hair restraints could result in hair contaminating food. Review of the applicable Food Code confirmed the requirement for food employees to wear hair restraints designed and worn to effectively keep hair from contacting exposed food.