Failure to Maintain Laundry Hot Water Heater in Safe Operating Condition
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain the hot water heater for the laundry in safe operating condition, resulting in the absence of hot water for laundry operations for approximately two months. Observations confirmed that the hot water heater was not functioning, with no hot water available at the washing machine or handwash sink, and the heater itself was cold to the touch. Laundry staff reported that the hot water had been out for several months and that both the Maintenance Director and Administrator were aware of the issue and had attempted repairs without success. During this period, laundry staff used bleach for sanitizing laundry in the absence of hot water. The Maintenance Director stated that the hot water heater had been out of service for as long as he had worked at the facility, which was four months, and that an incorrect part had been ordered, delaying repairs. The Administrator also acknowledged the ongoing issue but could not specify the duration. Facility policy requires the Maintenance Department to keep all equipment, including plumbing fixtures, in safe and operable condition at all times, which was not met in this instance.