Improper Garbage Containment and Open, Overflowing Dumpster
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to properly contain garbage and refuse for a census of 87 residents when one of two dumpsters was observed overflowing with trash, left open without lids, and surrounded by litter. During an observation with the Dietary Supervisor, plastic bags filled with garbage were piled above the top of the dumpster, the lids were not in place to close the dumpster, and a bag of garbage and a box were on the ground next to it; the Dietary Supervisor confirmed the dumpster was too full to close and acknowledged that lids were supposed to be closed to keep pests and critters out. In a separate interview, the Maintenance Director stated that the dumpster lids were supposed to be able to close to prevent birds from getting into the dumpster and for infection control reasons, and further stated that the lids were to remain closed at all times. Review of the facility’s “Medical Waste-Containers & Storage- Infection Control Manual” policy, revised 1/1/12, indicated that medical waste containers are to be kept covered at all times, must be closable, and that medical waste is to be stored so it is protected from animals and does not provide a breeding place or food source for insects and rodents. This failure had the potential to expose the facility environment to odors, insects, pests, and disease, which could have caused harm to residents. No specific residents, medical histories, or individual conditions were described in the report; the deficiency pertained to environmental sanitation and infection control practices related to waste storage and disposal.
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