Complaint Investigation Report

Allegation: Staff do not ensure the kitchen is safe and in good repair

On March 12, 2026, LPA toured the kitchen area with the Regional Director of Operations (RDO). LPA observed several maintenance concerns during the tour. The steam table had water dripping and was not working properly. Kitchen staff were not able to use the steam table. The refrigerator that stores dairy had a small puddle near the bottom. The garbage disposal was not working and there was a garbage bag underneath the sink to put food scraps. Lastly, the left side/hot water on the back sink did not work. Staff (S2, S4, and S5) indicated that the steam table has not been in good repair and working properly for an extended period. S4 and S5 indicated that the garbage disposal has not been working properly. Staff (S3) and S5 indicated that there was a puddle that formed near the refrigerator each day. S5 indicated that the hot water did not work on the left side of the back faucet in the kitchen.

After LPA’s visit to the care home on March 12, 2026, the facility made repairs to the garbage disposal, steam table, hot water in the back double sink, and dishwasher gauge. The facility found that the puddle that would form near the refrigerator was from the condensation pan not being dumped out when needed, so no repair was required. The facility provided LPA with all repair documentation/invoices. During the May 29, 2026 visit, LPA toured the kitchen area and observed that all maintenance concerns had been addressed.

Based on observations and interviews conducted, the preponderance of evidence standards have been met. Therefore, the above allegation is found to be SUBSTANTIATED. Per California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 6, Chapter 8, deficiency is being cited on the attached 9099-D page.

Exit interview conducted. A copy of the report and appeal rights provided.