Complaint·August 2, 2023

Allegation 1: It was alleged that staff reused the disposable eating utensils after use by children in care. The investigation revealed that the center uses disposable paper plates and eating utensils. Staff 1 disclosed that Staff 2 and Staff 3 are the primary staff responsible for cleaning the dishes, equipment, and eating utensils in the kitchen. Additionally, Staff 5 disclosed that Staff 5 and Staff 1 are also responsible for cleaning equipment, dishes, and eating utensils. Interviews from Staff 1, Staff 3, and Staff 5 revealed that they all stated they have only disposed of eating utensils and cleaned the dishes and equipment. All staff stated that when dish washing occurs, they use cleansing agents and hot water to sanitize and disinfect equipment and kitchenware. Interviews with other relevant parties and with Staff support that both disposable paper plates and eating utensils are typically disposed of by children of the program or staff, if children do not throw away the eating utensils. Staff 3 did admit that only once have they cleaned and sanitized disposable eating utensils only and placed the disposable eating utensils for reuse by children in care after being sanitized and disinfected. After observations, record reviews, and interviews, it was determined that there was sufficient evidence that Staff 3 did reuse disposable eating utensils; however, there was insufficient evidence that the disposable eating utensils were not properly sanitized. The policy requires that any utensils used must be sanitized, regardless of being disposable or reusable. The allegation could not be corroborated with the evidence found during the investigation. Therefore, the allegation has been found unsubstantiated. Although, the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of the evidence to prove that the facility operated in violation of policy in this circumstance. An exit interview was conducted, and a copy of this report was provided and explained to Director Vonda Perry along with the Notice of Site Visit and Appeal Rights.