Expired Food Handler Certifications Among Dietary Staff
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to employ sufficient dietary staff with the appropriate competencies, skill sets, and accreditations to carry out the functions of the food and nutrition service department. Specifically, six kitchen staff members did not have current and valid Food Handler's Certificates as required. Record review showed that the posted certificates for these staff members were expired, and one staff member did not have a certificate posted at all. The certificates were found to be valid for three years from the date of completion, but the facility was operating under the assumption that they were valid until the end of the year. Interviews revealed that both the Dietary Manager (DM) and the Administrator (ADMN) were aware of the expired certifications, with the DM stating that staff had been notified to renew their certificates by the end of the year and that all were enrolled in the online course for renewal. However, staff interviews indicated a lack of awareness regarding expiration dates and the consequences of not maintaining current certification. The facility did not have a specific policy regarding the maintenance of current food handler's certifications for dietary staff. The DM was responsible for monitoring certification expiration dates, while the ADMN was responsible for overseeing the DM. Despite reminders and enrollment in renewal courses, several staff members had not completed the necessary training or examinations to renew their certifications at the time of the survey. The absence of current food handler's certifications among dietary staff was identified through interviews, record reviews, and the lack of a facility policy addressing this requirement.