Handrails Not Properly Secured and Maintained on Third Floor
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to ensure that handrails on the third floor were properly repaired and safe for resident use. Multiple handrails were observed with screws and nails that were not flush with the surface, creating a potential for injury to residents' hands. Specific observations included handrails with protruding screws, a gap near the elevator, a nail sticking out, a hole in the handrail, and several areas where the handrails were loose or not secured to the wall. The handrail between the Storage Room and EVS Room was noted to shake with minimal pressure, and the handrail near the Central Supply Room was also loose with an unflushed screw. These deficiencies were widespread on the third floor and were confirmed through both observation and staff interview. The Administrator acknowledged the issue when informed by the surveyor, stating that attempts were being made to secure the handrails with screws, but the surveyor pointed out that the screws were not flush and posed a risk of injury.