Failure to Maintain Washer Filters per Manufacturer Instructions
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified a deficiency in the facility’s infection prevention and control program related to the maintenance of laundry equipment. Review of the Alliance Laundry Systems washer manufacturer guidelines showed that, as part of end-of-day maintenance, the AC invert drive filter was to be cleaned by removing the external plastic cover, taking out the foam filter, and washing it with warm water and allowing it to air dry, or by vacuuming the filter. During an observation of the laundry area, the filter located on the front of the washing machine was found to be heavily soiled with lint and debris, despite a metal manufacturer label directly beneath the filter stating, "Clean Daily." Three of three washing machines observed had this issue. In an interview conducted at the time of the observation, the Laundry Supervisor acknowledged the condition of the filter and stated that laundry personnel did not maintain the filter, indicating that maintenance staff were responsible for cleaning it. In a subsequent interview, the Maintenance Supervisor reported that maintenance staff usually cleaned the filter about three times a week on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, rather than daily as directed by the manufacturer. The Maintenance Supervisor also stated there was no log or record maintained to verify that the filter was cleaned as required.
We Help Long-Term Care Teams Stay Survey-Ready
We process and analyze inspection reports and plan of correction using AI to extract insights and trends so providers can improve care quality and stay ahead of compliance risks.