Unsecured Chemical Caulk Left Accessible in Common Hallway
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency related to accident hazards when a partially used 10.1-ounce tube of 3M Fire Barrier Sealant Caulk, loaded in a caulk gun, was observed sitting on a handrail in the common area of hall 200. The caulk was within reach in an area where residents frequently mobilize. The product label stated that it may irritate eyes, nose, and throat, advised avoiding eye contact and ingestion, instructed users to wash thoroughly after handling, and directed that it be kept out of reach of children. The facility had previously identified 14 residents as cognitively impaired and independently mobile, and these residents used the area where the caulk was left accessible. An LPN confirmed that the caulk tube was unsecured on the handrail in the 200 hall, verified the warnings on the product label, and acknowledged that cognitively impaired, independently mobile residents could access it. The Maintenance Supervisor also verified that the same tube of caulk had been observed on the handrail and confirmed that the product warning label indicated the chemical may cause irritation or harm if handled or ingested. Review of the facility’s Chemical/Biological Storage policy, dated 08/11/09, showed that all chemicals/biologicals not in use must be stored in a locked location and that the facility will provide residents with an environment as free of accident hazards as possible. The unsecured storage of the caulk was inconsistent with this policy.
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