F0812

F

Improper Storage of Emergency Drinking Water Supply

Powder Springs, Georgia Survey Completed on 01-09-2026

Penalty

No penalty information released

Summary

Surveyors identified a deficiency related to the facility’s failure to store emergency drinking water in a safe and sanitary manner consistent with its policies on food receiving, storage, and emergency water supply. The facility’s policy on Food Receiving and Storage required foods to be received and stored in a manner that complies with safe food handling practices, and the Emergency Water Supply policy specified that primary emergency water storage was to be in an alternative location in the Alzheimer’s unit (AU). During observation behind the kitchen, surveyors found multiple brown boxes of emergency water stacked outside near the dumpster and grease trap, with a broom placed on top. Some boxes were moistened, some were open with gallons missing, and debris such as sticks and dirt was present in the boxes. The boxes were also located next to a non-operating freezer.

The Dietary Supervisor stated that these boxes were part of the facility’s emergency water supply and explained that they were stored outside because there was not enough room in the AU closet. Further observation of the AU emergency water storage area with the Dietary Supervisor and the Registered Dietitian showed that the remaining emergency water was kept in a cluttered closet with boxes stored without order. They counted 66 boxes of emergency water on hand, which they stated was sufficient for each resident for three days, and the facility census was 195 residents. The Administrator later confirmed that the water had been placed outside due to renovations and moving items from one area to the AU, and acknowledged that there was not enough room for it inside. The Regional Registered Dietitian, the Administrator, and the Dietary Supervisor all confirmed that the water stored outside was part of the facility’s emergency water supply.