(a) An effective, safe, and continuing pest control system against insects, rodents, and vermin must be in operation in the facility. Pest control services must be provided by nursing facility personnel or by contract with a licensed pest control company. Care must be taken to use the least toxic and least flammable effective insecticides and rodenticides. These compounds must be stored in nonfood preparation and storage areas. Poisons must be under lock.
(b) The facility must protect against harborages and entrances for insects, rodents, and vermin. Outside doors must be self-closing to control entry of pests.
(c) Garbage and trash must be stored in enclosed containers, protected against leakage, contact with disease carriers, and access to animals. It must be stored in areas separate from those used for the preparation and storage of food and must be removed from the premises in conformity with state and local practices. Garbage and trash containers must be maintained free of accumulations and coatings of garbage. Garbage storage areas must be kept clean and in a state of good repair.

Source Note: The provisions of this §554.324 adopted to be effective July 1, 1996, 21 TexReg 4408; transferred effective January 15, 2021, as published in the Texas Register December 11, 2020, 45 TexReg 8871