a) Every facility shall have an effective means of supplying an adequate amount of clean linen for operation, either through an in-house laundry or a contract with an outside service.

1. 1) An adequate supply of clean linen shall be defined as the three sets of sheets, draw sheets, and pillow cases required to provide for the residents' needs. Additional changes of linen may be required in consideration of the time involved for laundering and transporting soiled linens.

2. 2) If an in-house laundry service is provided, then the following conditions shall exist:

   1. A) The laundry area shall be maintained and operated in a clean, safe and sanitary manner. No part of the laundry shall be used as a smoking or dining area.
   2. B) Written operating procedures shall be developed, posted and implemented that provide for the handling, transport and storage of clean and soiled linens.
   3. C) Laundry personnel must be in good health and practice good personal grooming. Employees must thoroughly wash their hands and exposed portions of their arms with soap and warm water before starting work, during work as often as necessary to keep them clean, and after smoking, eating, drinking, using the toilet, and handling soiled linens.
   4. D) Clean linen shall be protected from contamination during handling, transport, and storage.
   5. E) Soiled linen shall be handled, transported, and stored in a manner that protects facility residents and personnel.
   6. F) If supplies and equipment not directly connected with the operation of the laundry are stored in the laundry or its accessory storage and handling areas, they shall be protected from contamination by the soiled linens and shall not contribute to contamination of the clean linens.