The Director of Housekeeping & Laundry Services assumes administrative authority, responsibility and accountability for providing housekeeping and laundry services to create a safe, sanitary, comfortable and homelike environment for residents, staff and the public. Manages employees to provide services according to facility philosophy and consistent with state and federal laws and regulations. In collaboration with the Nursing Home Administrator, allocates resources in an efficient and economic manner to ensure that housekeeping and laundry services are provided and that the services enhance quality of life in the facility.
Develops routine cleaning schedules for resident rooms and common areas of facility. Develops schedules for special projects and large jobs such as walls, windows etc.
Gives daily assignments to housekeeping staff and to laundry staff. Plans and organizes departmental activities to accomplish goals in an effective, timely manner.
Develops and implements procedures to order supplies and equipment and to track inventory.
Develops safeguards and takes appropriate actions to secure housekeeping, laundry supplies out of reach of residents at all times.
Follows all safety information and procedures when using chemical compounds. Refers to product labels and Material Safety Data Sheets for information. Keeps all products in original containers. Contacts manufacturer or distributor if unsure of proper handling techniques.
Develops and implements procedures to handle, store, process and transport linens so as to prevent the spread of infection. Procedures eliminate crossing of clean and soiled linen and minimize exposure to waste products.
Maintains linen inventories at levels consistent with facility need. Maintains adequate supplies of clean linen on units at all times. Inspects all linen inventory of all worn, stained or torn linens and bedding.
Develops facility procedures to ensure that personal laundry is always returned, without damage from the laundry process, to the correct owner.
Disposes of trash and waste, including bio-hazardous waste and other materials that require special handling in compliance with state and federal requirements.
Monitors workplace for safety and fire hazards. Corrects or reports potential problems to supervisor. Reports maintenance and equipment problems promptly to Director of Maintenance.
Maintains workplace in orderly, clean manner. Stores supplies and equipment in proper places when not in use.
Cooperates with other departments to identify and accommodate individual resident need and preferences. Communicates directly with residents, families, and legal representatives to identify approaches that will protect and promote residents' rights.
Inspects physical plant for any signs of rodents or pests. In cooperation with Maintenance Department, implements effective pest control system to eliminate any rodents and pests.
Monitors the performance of housekeeping and laundry staff by observing staff performing duties on all units, on all shifts and interviewing facility staff, residents, and families. Performs quality assurance functions, including compliance rounds, on daily basis to evaluate compliance with state and federal laws and regulations, and facility policies and procedures. Initiates proper job action according to facility policy to correct problems in staff performance. Initiates other corrective actions as appropriate.
Develops and updates housekeeping and laundry policies and procedures that reflect the philosophy and objectives of the facility and are consistent with state and federal regulations.
Completes required documentation and record keeping of housekeeping and laundry activities. Audits records of staff for accuracy, completeness. Implements approaches to improve department record keeping practices.
Collaborates with consultants with timely responses to request for information and suggestions to improve quality of housekeeping and laundry services.
Monitors staff for compliance with OSHA mandates on workplace safety including hazard communication and blood borne pathogens. In cases of workplace exposure, provides immediate first aid and refers employee to appropriate facility staff member for post-exposure follow-up.
Participates in the development and management of the department budget. Provides relevant financial information to Nursing Home Administrator regarding department financial needs and status.
Communicates with Nursing Home Administrator on daily basis to discuss physical plant equipment, personnel and budget issues. Recommends to Nursing Home Administrator numbers and types of personnel needed to meet facility needs in compliance with state and federal laws and regulations. Develops staffing plan that assures sufficient numbers of Housekeeping and Laundry personnel to meet resident and facility needs.
Hires and retains qualified, competent staff to provide services to achieve a hazard-free, sanitary, comfortable, homelike environment for residents, facility staff and others. Conducts interviews,