Failure to Maintain Sanitary Food Service Practices and Proper Staff Hygiene
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain sanitary conditions in its kitchen and food preparation areas, as evidenced by multiple observations during a survey. The kitchen was found with an overflowing garbage container under the handwashing sink, sticky floors, and food and liquid debris present in several areas, including the sides and front of the oven and food processor. Clean utensils such as large spoons and metal scoops were stored on a dirty drainage mat contaminated with food debris and a sticky white liquid. The Dietary Manager acknowledged the unsanitary storage of utensils and was unsure when the kitchen was last cleaned, stating it had likely not been cleaned in over a week. In the walk-in freezer and dry storage room, food items and packets were scattered on the floor among opened boxes and debris. Additionally, two dietary aides with full beards were observed working in the kitchen without facial hair coverings, contrary to facility policy. Further unsanitary conditions were noted in the first-floor kitchenette, where the coffee machine was dirty, and the sink contained a soiled spoon, wet washcloth, cup, empty pitcher, and food debris, including scrambled eggs, with flies present. The floor was sticky and littered with food debris, and the steam table had spilled food with flies crawling on it. During food preparation, the Dietary Manager handled garbage and then prepared food without washing hands. Facility policies required daily cleaning schedules and the use of hair restraints and beard guards, but these were not followed or enforced, as confirmed by staff interviews and observations.