Improper Dumpster Management and Open Lids with Scattered Trash
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to properly manage its dumpster area, resulting in open dumpster lids and scattered trash in violation of its waste management policy. On 2/13/2026 at 10:01 a.m., the surveyor and a Maintenance Assistant observed the dumpster area with a foul odor, two dumpsters with all four lids open, and debris and trash scattered on the ground around the perimeter. The Maintenance Assistant stated that he believed the dumpster lids should be closed and identified housekeeping as responsible for the dumpster area, and further explained that leaving lids open and trash around the area could allow pests such as roaches and mice to enter the facility. At 10:07 a.m. the same day, the surveyor and the Housekeeping Supervisor again observed the dumpster area in the same condition, with foul odor, open lids, and scattered trash. The Housekeeping Supervisor stated that the dumpster area should be cleaned more than daily and acknowledged that leaving trash and lids open is not good and can attract cats, varmints, and rodents. The facility’s waste management policy dated 5/14 requires that plastic liners be tied and placed in outside dumpsters with lids kept closed, and that Maintenance and Housekeeping personnel ensure the dumpster area is kept clean, all trash bags are inside the dumpster, and dumpster lids are closed. This deficiency had the potential to affect all 213 residents residing at the facility, as the improper disposal and management of garbage and refuse occurred in a shared environmental area intended to prevent the spread of infection.
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