Dirksen Elementary School Fails Health Inspection - Chicago School

FACILITIES TO MAINTAIN PROPER TEMPERATURE - Comments: Found the #2 freezer in the kitchen not maintained- observed the freezer at an internal temperature of 38.4f. Tagged cooler held for inspection by CDPH. Instructed not to use. Instructed to repair and maintain so internal temperature is 0f or below. Critical violation 7-38-005(a).

Lack of certification indicates potential gaps in food safety knowledge, increasing risk of improper food handling and foodborne illness.

Valid City of Chicago Food Service Sanitation Certificate required and must be posted.

Certificate must be: Current and valid; Posted conspicuously in public view; Held by person in charge during all operating hours; Renewed before expiration date.

NO EVIDENCE OF RODENT OR INSECT OUTER OPENINGS PROTECTED/RODENT PROOFED, A WRITTEN LOG SHALL BE MAINTAINED AVAILABLE TO THE INSPECTORS - Comments: Observed the left main entrance door to have an approximate quarter inch gap along the bottom edge. Instructed facility to repair and maintain so door is tight fitting. Serious violation 7-38-020.

Unprotected openings allow pest entry, leading to contamination of food and surfaces.

Building openings must be protected against pest entry.

Doors tight-fitting and self-closing; Windows screened; Openings sealed; Pest control log maintained; Regular monitoring; Professional service when needed.

WALLS, CEILINGS, ATTACHED EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTED PER CODE: GOOD REPAIR, SURFACES CLEAN AND DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS - Comments: Observed dust accumulation on the wall by the walk in cooler condenser. Instructed facility to clean and maintain.

Damaged surfaces cannot be properly cleaned and may harbor pests.

Walls and ceilings must be smooth, cleanable, and in good repair.

Smooth, washable surfaces in food areas; Light colored; No holes or cracks; Clean and maintained.

WALLS, CEILINGS, ATTACHED EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTED PER CODE: GOOD REPAIR, SURFACES CLEAN AND DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS - Comments: Observed dust accumulation on the wall by the walk in cooler condenser. Instructed facility to clean and maintain.

Damaged surfaces cannot be properly cleaned and may harbor pests.

Walls and ceilings must be smooth, cleanable, and in good repair.

Smooth, washable surfaces in food areas; Light colored; No holes or cracks; Clean and maintained.