FAIL
Risk 1 (High)
ALESSANDRO VOLTA ELEMENTARY Fails Health Inspection - Chicago School
March 13, 2024
Canvass
License #25681
16
Total Violations
7
Critical
2
Major
7
Minor
Inspection Summary
This school was inspected by the Chicago Department of Public Health on March 13, 2024. The inspection type was "Canvass" and resulted in a Fail outcome.
This establishment is classified as Risk 1 (High), which determines the inspection frequency and focus areas.
The inspector documented 16 violations during this inspection, including 7 critical violations that required immediate attention.
Violations Cited by Chicago Health Inspector
16
Violation #10
CRITICAL
Violation Details
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: Observed missing paper towels in 2nd floor boys bathroom handwashing sinks. Custodian replaced paper towels on site. Priority Foundation Violation 7-38-030(c).
Why This Matters
Blocked or unsupplied sinks force employees to skip handwashing, spreading fecal bacteria and viruses to food.
Food Code Requirement
Handwashing sinks must be accessible, properly supplied, and used only for handwashing.
Specific Requirements
Each sink needs: Warm water (100°F minimum); Soap in dispensers; Paper towels or air dryers; Waste receptacles; Signage; Clear access; Used only for handwashing.
CDPH Food Code: Section 5-202.12, 6-301.11
Violation #10
CRITICAL
Violation Details
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: Observed two (2) metered faucets at hand sinks in boys bathroom on 2nd floor running for less than 15 seconds. Repair or replace to ensure continuous flow of water for 15 seconds is provided.
Why This Matters
Blocked or unsupplied sinks force employees to skip handwashing, spreading fecal bacteria and viruses to food.
Food Code Requirement
Handwashing sinks must be accessible, properly supplied, and used only for handwashing.
Specific Requirements
Each sink needs: Warm water (100°F minimum); Soap in dispensers; Paper towels or air dryers; Waste receptacles; Signage; Clear access; Used only for handwashing.
CDPH Food Code: Section 5-202.12, 6-301.11
Violation #12
CRITICAL
Violation Details
FOOD RECEIVED AT PROPER TEMPERATURE - Comments: Observed TCS food, chicken patty meals, being received during inspection improperly at 44 to 49 degrees. Determined top 4 rows were above 41 degree threshold, and the 75 single meals, weighing approximately 25 lbs and valued at $150, were discarded. Discussed with manager to ensure all foods being received are checked upon arrival. Priority violation 7-38-005.
Why This Matters
Missing supplies prevent proper handwashing, forcing inadequate cleaning that spreads pathogens.
Food Code Requirement
All handwashing sinks must have soap and hand drying provisions.
Specific Requirements
Soap in dispensers at each sink; Paper towels in dispensers or air dryers; Supplies maintained during all hours; Waste receptacles if paper towels used.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-301.11, 6-301.12
Violation #36
MINOR
Violation Details
THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE - Comments: Missing thermometer in standing cooler used to hold vegetables in main cafeteria. Provided replacement on site.
Why This Matters
Inadequate lighting prevents detection of contamination and pests.
Food Code Requirement
Adequate protected lighting required in all areas.
Specific Requirements
50 foot-candles at prep surfaces; 20 foot-candles at 30 inches in storage; Shielded bulbs over exposed food; Clean fixtures.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-303.11
Violation #38
CRITICAL
Violation Details
INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT - Comments: Observed exterior doors of main entrance to 001 and 002 have gaps at base in center. Provides access to exterior. Instructed to pest proof and seal exterior doors from pests, and to maintain.
Why This Matters
Pests spread numerous diseases through contamination.
Food Code Requirement
No pests or animals allowed in facility.
Specific Requirements
No evidence of pests; No live animals except service animals; Effective pest control program.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.111
Violation #38
CRITICAL
Violation Details
INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT - Comments: Observed evidence of pests and droppings in the following locations: Classroom 001 - observed less than 10 droppings on the floor, in between storage totes, and on the toys. Classroom 002 - observed less than 10 droppings on floor behind teachers desk and storage items on shelf. Storage closet between 001 and 002 - observed less than 10 droppings scattered on the floor behind storage totes and behind the door in the storage closet. Classroom 131 - observed less than 10 mouse droppings in storage area behind teachers desk along window. Area needs to be cleaned and all unnecessary items to be removed. Classroom 131 - droppings observed (less than 10) along the south wall behind student play furniture and shelves. Instructed to detail clean and sanitize all affected areas and recommend a pest control service. Priority Foundation Violation 7-38-020 (a).
Why This Matters
Pests spread numerous diseases through contamination.
Food Code Requirement
No pests or animals allowed in facility.
Specific Requirements
No evidence of pests; No live animals except service animals; Effective pest control program.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.111
Violation #39
MAJOR
Violation Details
CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY - Comments: Observed cookie sheet stored on floor in between oven and standing cooler. Store all food prep items in easily cleanable surfaces.
Why This Matters
Contamination during preparation is a leading cause of foodborne illness.
Food Code Requirement
Prevent contamination during all food handling.
Specific Requirements
Minimize bare hand contact; Prevent cross-contamination; Use clean equipment; Proper employee hygiene.
CDPH Food Code: Section 3-307.11
Violation #47
MINOR
Violation Details
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED - Comments: Observed ice accumulation in on floor in walk in freezer in cafeteria. Instructed to remove ice and maintain area clear of ice.
Why This Matters
Poor design creates areas that harbor bacteria.
Food Code Requirement
All surfaces must be designed to be easily cleanable.
Specific Requirements
Smooth, non-porous surfaces; Free of cracks and crevices; Easily disassembled; Accessible for cleaning.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-101.11
Violation #49
MINOR
Violation Details
NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN - Comments: Observed debris and loose food wrappers on storage shelves in dry storage area in break room. Maintain area and provide routine cleaning to control any build up.
Why This Matters
Accumulated soil attracts pests and harbors bacteria.
Food Code Requirement
All surfaces must be kept clean.
Specific Requirements
Clean equipment interiors and exteriors; Walls, ceilings, floors clean; Remove grease and debris; Clean as often as necessary.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-601.11, 4-602.13
Violation #51
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES - Comments: Observed three (3) loose faucets in the following bathrooms: Girls bathroom near 130/131. Main building, 3rd floor girls bathroom. Repair or replace loose faucets in each bathroom.
Why This Matters
Backflow can contaminate entire water supply with sewage or chemicals.
Food Code Requirement
Plumbing must be properly installed with backflow prevention.
Specific Requirements
Air gaps at fixtures; Backflow preventers on connections; No cross-connections; Annual testing of devices; Proper drainage.
CDPH Food Code: Section 5-202.13
Violation #51
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES - Comments: Observed low water pressure for hot water in student's bathroom in 002 Classroom.
Why This Matters
Backflow can contaminate entire water supply with sewage or chemicals.
Food Code Requirement
Plumbing must be properly installed with backflow prevention.
Specific Requirements
Air gaps at fixtures; Backflow preventers on connections; No cross-connections; Annual testing of devices; Proper drainage.
CDPH Food Code: Section 5-202.13
Violation #54
MAJOR
Violation Details
GARBAGE & REFUSE PROPERLY DISPOSED; FACILITIES MAINTAINED - Comments: Observed exterior receptacles overflowing with trash bags, containers with lids not closed and covered, and loose debris on ground surrounding dumpsters. Instructed to maintain area, detail clean, and properly cover all dumpsters with tight fitting lids to eliminate potential for pests. Priority foundation violation 7-38-020(b).
Why This Matters
Poor waste management attracts pests and creates contamination sources.
Food Code Requirement
Refuse must be properly contained and removed.
Specific Requirements
Leak-proof, pest-proof containers; Tight-fitting lids; Clean storage areas; Frequent removal; Containers cleaned.
CDPH Food Code: Section 5-501.111
Violation #55
MINOR
Violation Details
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: Observed peeling paint debris and walls and ceilings in disrepair in the following locations: On Ceilings above cafeteria tables in the main dining hall. On ceilings and walls in the 2nd floor girls bathroom, 2nd floor boys bathroom, 3rd floor girls bathroom. Walls of dry storage area on first floor Repair all surfaces to be smooth and easily cleanable.
Why This Matters
Deteriorated facilities harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning.
Food Code Requirement
Building must be maintained in good condition.
Specific Requirements
No holes in walls/ceilings; Doors and windows intact; Fixtures functional; No water damage; Surfaces intact.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.11
Violation #55
MINOR
Violation Details
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: Observed stained ceiling tiles from leaks in ceiling. Determine source of leak, and repair or replace all affected ceiling tiles.
Why This Matters
Deteriorated facilities harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning.
Food Code Requirement
Building must be maintained in good condition.
Specific Requirements
No holes in walls/ceilings; Doors and windows intact; Fixtures functional; No water damage; Surfaces intact.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.11
Violation #55
MINOR
Violation Details
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: Observed unnecessary items stored on the floor near dry storage area in break room and on the floor in the exterior 001 and 002 storage classes. Remove any unused items and store at least 6 inches from floor.
Why This Matters
Deteriorated facilities harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning.
Food Code Requirement
Building must be maintained in good condition.
Specific Requirements
No holes in walls/ceilings; Doors and windows intact; Fixtures functional; No water damage; Surfaces intact.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.11
Violation #55
MINOR
Violation Details
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: Observed unnecessary items stored on the floor near dry storage area in break room and on the floor in the exterior 001 and 002 storage classes. Remove any unused items and store at least 6 inches from floor.
Why This Matters
Deteriorated facilities harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning.
Food Code Requirement
Building must be maintained in good condition.
Specific Requirements
No holes in walls/ceilings; Doors and windows intact; Fixtures functional; No water damage; Surfaces intact.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.11
Health Department Information
Department
Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH)
Division
Food Protection Program
Report Issues
Call 311 or File Online
More Information
CDPH Food Protection