Failure to Ensure Dietary Staff Maintained Current Food Handler Certification
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that dietary staff maintained current Food Handler Certificates, specifically for one dietary aide. Record review showed that the dietary aide's Food Handler Certificate had expired prior to her continued service in the kitchen. The Dietary Manager acknowledged awareness of the expiration but did not monitor or ensure timely renewal of the certificate. The aide herself was aware of the expiration but did not renew due to financial constraints. The Dietary Manager and the human resources department were identified as responsible for tracking and maintaining these certifications, but neither took action to prevent the lapse. Interviews revealed that the Interim Administrator was unaware of the expired certificate and did not know the associated risks. Additionally, the facility did not have a policy in place regarding the maintenance of food handler certificates. The lack of oversight and absence of a formal policy contributed to the deficiency, resulting in dietary staff working without the required certification.