Failure to Maintain Clean Kitchen Vents and Fans
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that seven ceiling vents, two ceiling fans, and two industrial fans in the kitchen and dishwashing areas had visible dust particles on their blades and vent grates. During meal preparation, dust was seen blowing from these fixtures over the steam table, food preparation areas, uncovered dishes, and an uncovered pan of vegetables. In the dishwashing area, dust from the vents and fans was observed blowing over clean dishes. The Dietary Manager confirmed the presence of dust and stated that the maintenance department was responsible for cleaning these fixtures, but was unaware of when the last deep cleaning had occurred. The kitchen cleaning checklist did not assign responsibility for cleaning vents and fans to kitchen staff. A review of maintenance logs for the previous 90 days showed documentation of filter changes but no records of vent or fan cleaning. The Maintenance Director stated that vents were cleaned monthly, but could not provide documentation or a cleaning schedule for the ceiling vents, ceiling fans, or industrial fans. The Administrator also confirmed the need for cleaning and presented reports that documented filter inspections and changes, but not vent cleaning. These findings indicate that the facility failed to maintain kitchen ventilation and fan fixtures free of dust, resulting in dust particles blowing onto clean surfaces and food preparation areas.