Failure to Maintain Safe and Comfortable Environment Due to Inoperable Air Conditioning
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a safe, clean, and comfortable environment for residents, staff, and the public by not ensuring that air conditioning units were operational throughout the building. Multiple observations revealed that both common areas and individual resident rooms were excessively warm, with temperatures frequently exceeding the facility's stated acceptable range of 72 to 81 degrees Fahrenheit. In several instances, wall units displayed temperatures as high as 90 degrees, and residents and staff consistently reported discomfort due to the heat. Many air conditioning units (PTACs) in resident rooms were not functioning, and the main building cooling system had been out of order for an extended period, reportedly for one to two months. Stand-up fans were used as a temporary measure, but some were not operational or were dirty with built-up debris, further compromising comfort and cleanliness. Residents were directly affected by the high temperatures, with several voicing complaints about the heat and discomfort in their rooms and common areas. Some residents had personal fans, but these were not always effective or clean, and not all residents had access to them. Staff interviews confirmed ongoing issues with the air conditioning, and maintenance staff acknowledged that they had not been consistently monitoring room temperatures or maintaining a list of rooms with non-functioning units. The lack of systematic temperature monitoring and insufficient provision of alternative cooling measures contributed to the ongoing discomfort experienced by residents. Record reviews and interviews with facility leadership confirmed that the main cooling system and many individual room units were awaiting repair or replacement, with 32 new PTAC units ordered but not yet received. Documentation showed that temperature logs were maintained for some common areas, but not for all resident rooms, and that the facility was aware of the temperature issues for an extended period. The State Ombudsman also received complaints from residents about the excessive heat, and observations confirmed that the environment was uncomfortably warm. The facility's failure to maintain operational air conditioning and to ensure a clean and comfortable environment resulted in a deficiency affecting multiple residents.